Applying for a Job at a Hiring Kiosk

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Hiring kiosks allow job applicants to fill out online job applications (instead of hard copy paper applications) while in a store or office. The hiring manager will have immediate access to the application information, and the system can also be used for processing new hires, benefits, and other employment information. In addition, some employers use kiosks to provide human resources information to employees who don't have a computer.

Benefits for Employers

In-store hiring kiosks are convenient for both applicants and employers. From the employer's perspective, customers can make the best employees because they know the product and the company. Kiosks save on hiring costs because they reduce the budget necessary for posting jobs online or in the newspaper.

Hiring systems process job applications, which may include assessment questions, background check information, and tax screenings, then generate a summary for the hiring manager to review.

Most in-store kiosks are integrated with the employer's applicant tracking system. Hiring managers can easily access applications as they are submitted.

Benefits for Applicants

For the job applicant, a hiring kiosk is a quick and efficient way to apply for employment. However, kiosks work best when a hiring manager or assistant is on site to analyze the information and offer instant feedback as to whether the applicant can proceed to an interview.

One downside, however, is that a kiosk may eliminate older candidates who don't have computer skills or are intimidated by the touch screens.

How to Use a Hiring Kiosk

Using a hiring kiosk is quite simple. There will either be a desk with a computer on it or a free-standing kiosk. Depending on the system there will be a keyboard or a touch screen you can use to apply.

Bring a copy of your resume or work history with you as you'll need to fill out the online application with all your personal and employment-related information.

The system will guide you step-by-step through the process of completing the job application. After your application has been submitted, the hiring manager will contact you if the company wants to schedule an interview.

Utilize Keywords

Use descriptive words that are relevant to the job because the software searches important related terms. For example, if you’re applying for a retail position, describe your experience processing transactions and credit card payments, handling returns and providing customer service.

Keep in mind that the search engine doesn't understand context, so writing something like "I've never been fired" might flag the word "fired" as a negative.

Job Assessments at a Hiring Kiosk

While some kiosk-based applications are quick, some may require the applicant to take a test covering job-related skills like reading, writing, and math. Read each question thoroughly and don't skim them. If you don't focus here, that's a red flag that you won't have attention to detail on the job. Tests may run anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes, and the system will usually tell you the time and number of questions remaining. Don't spend too much time on any single question; rather, make sure you get through the whole test.

Some tests may require you to think through a question, and then type in your answer at the kiosk. For example, for a retail job you might be asked about a practical situation dealing with an argumentative customer. Write clear and brief answers.

Keep in mind that a hiring manager is reading many answers to the same question; get his or her attention by making strong, concise points rather than offering long, meandering answers.