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The Big Lots Employment Application form is a vital tool for individuals seeking employment with this well-known retail company. This form serves as a comprehensive yet straightforward way to gather essential personal information, educational background, employment history, and references from applicants. It is important to remember that the application remains active for ninety days, which provides candidates ample time to explore opportunities with the organization. Applicants will fill in personal details such as their name, contact information, and the position they are interested in. It also includes questions regarding age, previous employment with Big Lots, and work availability, ensuring that both the applicant and employer can assess compatibility quickly. Additionally, Big Lots recognizes the significance of a drug-free workplace and incorporates questions related to drug testing policies. The application emphasizes the company's commitment to equal opportunity, making it clear that discrimination based on race, gender, or other factors is not tolerated. Understanding the form's requirements can make the process less daunting for prospective employees, paving the way for a smoother employment journey.

Lots Job Application Example

BIG LOTS

EMPLOYMENT APPLICATION

This application is considered active for ninety (90) days.

PERSONAL DATA

Please complete in ink.

DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE

All employees are subject to drug and alcohol testing procedures permitted under federal and state law.

WOTC Registration #

Name (Last, First, Middle)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Contact Phone Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Street Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City

 

 

 

State

 

Zip

 

E-mail Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Position(s) interested in?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Salary Requirements

 

 

 

 

 

Are you under the age of 18?

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hour/Year

(Circle One)

 

If yes, state your age.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Have you ever worked for Big Lots before?

 

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If yes, when and where?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If hired, can you supply proof that you are legally entitled to work in the United States for any employer?

 

 

Yes

 

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Do you have friends or relatives working for us?

 

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If so, who?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Can you work:

Anytime

Days

Evenings

Weekends

 

 

 

 

Are there any times or days you cannot work?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Have you ever been convicted of (1) a violent crime (i.e., assault, battery, murder, etc.), (2) a retail related crime (i.e., shoplifting, credit card fraud, robbery, theft,

burglary, etc.), or (3) drug trafficking/distribution?

 

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Note: A “yes” response will not automatically disqualify you from employment, but will be considered as part of your overall job-related qualifications for

employment. You do not need to disclose any information regarding arrests or any criminal charges and/or convictions that have been erased, annulled, sealed

and/or expunged from your record.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If yes, please describe:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

EDUCATION

Type of School

Name of School

Location of School

Area of Study

Last Year

Did You Earn a

Completed

Degree or Diploma?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

High School

 

 

 

1

2

3

4

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

College

 

 

 

1

2

3

4

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Graduate

 

 

 

1

2

3

4

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other

 

 

 

1

2

3

4

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

REFERENCES

List names of three people (other than relatives) we may contact who have knowledge of your job-related skills.

1

2

3

Name

Telephone Contact/E-mail Contact

Address/City/State

Occupation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

CONTINUED ON BACK

 

Big Lots is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in making employment decisions based upon race,

color, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or veteran or military status.

SOS SKU# 960600043 • 08/12

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY

BEGINNING WITH YOUR MOST RECENT EMPLOYER, LIST ALL EMPLOYMENT INCLUDING MILITARY SERVICE AND SELF-EMPLOYMENT. Please account for all periods of unemployment. All sections of this application must be complete even if a resume is attached.

If presently employed, may we contact your employer for references?

Yes

No May we contact you at your place of employment?

Yes

No

Name of present or last employer

Job Title/Responsibilities

 

 

From (Mo. & Yr.)

To (Mo. & Yr.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

Supervisor Name

 

 

 

Was your position

Full time

Part time

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City, State, ZIP

 

 

Reason for leaving

Terminated

Voluntary

Involuntary

Starting Salary $

 

 

 

Explain

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Last Salary $

 

Phone Number

(

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name of previous employer

 

Job Title/Responsibilities

 

 

From (Mo. & Yr.)

To (Mo. & Yr.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

Supervisor Name

 

 

 

Was your position

Full time

Part time

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City, State, ZIP

 

 

Reason for leaving

Terminated

Voluntary

Involuntary

Starting Salary $

 

 

 

Explain

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Last Salary $

 

Phone Number

(

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name of previous employer

 

Job Title/Responsibilities

 

 

From (Mo. & Yr.)

To (Mo. & Yr.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

Supervisor Name

 

 

 

Was your position

Full time

Part time

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City, State, ZIP

 

 

Reason for leaving

Terminated

Voluntary

Involuntary

Starting Salary $

 

 

 

Explain

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Last Salary $

 

Phone Number

(

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name of previous employer

 

Job Title/Responsibilities

 

 

From (Mo. & Yr.)

To (Mo. & Yr.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

Supervisor Name

 

 

 

Was your position

Full time

Part time

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City, State, ZIP

 

 

Reason for leaving

Terminated

Voluntary

Involuntary

Starting Salary $

 

 

 

Explain

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Last Salary $

 

Phone Number

(

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name of previous employer

 

Job Title/Responsibilities

 

 

From (Mo. & Yr.)

To (Mo. & Yr.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

Supervisor Name

 

 

 

Was your position

Full time

Part time

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City, State, ZIP

 

 

Reason for leaving

Terminated

Voluntary

Involuntary

Starting Salary $

 

 

 

Explain

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Last Salary $

 

Phone Number

(

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I understand that Big Lots may contact the past employers and/or personal references I have provided in order to verify my past employment and work record. I authorize all past employers, educational institutions, government agencies and/or personal references to release any and all information concerning my past employment work history, performance, and personal character. I hereby release all such employers, personal references, and Big Lots from any and all liability resulting from damages I may incur in the reference verification process. I understand that my employment or continued employment is contingent upon my successfully completing both reference and background checks.

I also understand that if employed by Big Lots, my employment is “at will” and can be terminated at any time for any reason either by myself or the Company. This agreement cannot be modified by any representative of the Company either in writing or verbally.

Finally, I understand it is unlawful for Big Lots to employ anyone who is neither a citizen of the U.S. nor an alien authorized to work in the U.S. I certify

that any U.S. citizenship/work authorization information I provide to the Company is authentic. Further, I certify that all information I have provided on this application is accurate.

False information or omission of facts on this application may result in the termination of my employment with Big Lots.

Applicant’s Signature

Date

Thank you for your interest and the time you have taken to submit this application.

Form 8850 (Rev. January 2012)

Department of the Treasury Internal Revenue Service

Pre-Screening Notice and Certification Request for

the Work Opportunity Credit

See separate instructions.

OMB No. 1545-1500

Job applicant: Fill in the lines below and check any boxes that apply. Complete only this side.

Your name

 

Social security number

Street address where you live

City or town, state, and ZIP code

County

 

Telephone number

 

 

 

If you are under age 40, enter your date of birth (month, day, year)

1

2

3

4

5

6

Check here if you received a conditional certification from the state workforce agency (SWA) or a participating local agency for the work opportunity credit.

Check here if any of the following statements apply to you.

I am a member of a family that has received assistance from Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) for any 9 months during the past 18 months.

I am a veteran and a member of a family that received Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits (food stamps) for at least a 3-month period during the past 15 months.

I was referred here by a rehabilitation agency approved by the state, an employment network under the Ticket to Work program, or the Department of Veterans Affairs.

I am at least age 18 but not age 40 or older and I am a member of a family that: a Received SNAP benefits (food stamps) for the past 6 months, or

b Received SNAP benefits (food stamps) for at least 3 of the past 5 months, but is no longer eligible to receive them.

During the past year, I was convicted of a felony or released from prison for a felony.

I received supplemental security income (SSI) benefits for any month ending during the past 60 days.

I am a veteran and I was unemployed for a period or periods totaling at least 4 weeks but less than 6 months during the past year.

Check here if you are a veteran and you were unemployed for a period or periods totaling at least 6 months during the past year.

Check here if you are a veteran entitled to compensation for a service-connected disability and you were discharged or released from active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces during the past year.

Check here if you are a veteran entitled to compensation for a service-connected disability and you were unemployed for a period or periods totaling at least 6 months during the past year.

Check here if you are a member of a family that:

Received TANF payments for at least the past 18 months, or

Received TANF payments for any 18 months beginning after August 5, 1997, and the earliest 18-month period beginning after August 5, 1997, ended during the past 2 years, or

Stopped being eligible for TANF payments during the past 2 years because federal or state law limited the maximum time those payments could be made.

Signature—All Applicants Must Sign

Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I gave the above information to the employer on or before the day I was offered a job, and it is, to the best of my knowledge, true, correct, and complete.

Job applicant’s signature

Date

For Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see page 2.

Cat. No. 22851L

Form 8850 (Rev. 1-2012)

Form 8850 (Rev. 1-2012)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Page 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For Employer’s Use Only

 

 

 

 

Employer’s name

 

 

Telephone no.

 

EIN

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Street address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City or town, state, and ZIP code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Person to contact, if different from above Phil Ownbey c/o First Advantage

Telephone no. (888) 570-4455

 

 

 

 

 

 

Street address 9800 Crosspoint Boulevard, Suite 300

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City or town, state, and ZIP code

Indianapolis, IN 46256

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If, based on the individual’s age and home address, he or she is a member of group 4 or 6 (as described under Members of Targeted Groups in the separate instructions), enter that group number (4 or 6) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Date applicant:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gave

 

Was

 

Was

 

Started

information

 

offered job

 

hired

 

job

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Under penalties of perjury, I declare that the applicant provided the information on this form on or before the day a job was offered to the applicant and that the information I have furnished is, to the best of my knowledge, true, correct, and complete. Based on the information the job applicant furnished on page 1, I believe the individual is a member of a targeted group. I hereby request a certification that the individual is a member of a targeted group.

Employer’s signature

Title

 

Date

 

 

 

 

 

Privacy Act and

criminal litigation, to the Department of

The time needed to complete and file

Labor for oversight of the certifications

this form will vary depending on

 

Paperwork Reduction

 

performed by the SWA, and to cities,

individual circumstances. The estimated

Act Notice

states, and the District of Columbia for

average time is:

 

 

 

use in administering their tax laws. We

 

 

 

 

 

Recordkeeping

. .

6 hr., 27 min.

SECTION REFERENCES ARE TO THE INTERNAL

may also disclose this information to

 

 

 

 

REVENUE CODE.

other countries under a tax treaty, to

Learning about the law

 

 

Section 51(d)(13) permits a prospective

federal and state agencies to enforce

or the form . . . .

. .

. 30 min.

federal nontax criminal laws, or to

 

 

 

 

employer to request the applicant to

Preparing and sending this form

federal law enforcement and intelligence

complete this form and give it to the

to the SWA . . . .

. .

. 37 min.

agencies to combat terrorism.

prospective employer. The information

 

 

 

 

 

If you have comments concerning the

will be used by the employer to

You are not required to provide the

accuracy of these time estimates or

complete the employer’s federal tax

information requested on a form that is

suggestions for making this form

return. Completion of this form is

subject to the Paperwork Reduction Act

simpler, we would be happy to hear from

voluntary and may assist members of

unless the form displays a valid OMB

you. You can write to the Internal

targeted groups in securing employment.

control number. Books or records

Revenue Service, Tax Products

 

Routine uses of this form include giving

relating to a form or its instructions must

 

Coordinating Committee,

 

 

it to the state workforce agency (SWA),

be retained as long as their contents

 

 

SE:W:CAR:MP:T:M:S, 1111 Constitution

which will contact appropriate sources

may become material in the

Ave. NW, IR-6526, Washington, DC

to confirm that the applicant is a

administration of any Internal Revenue

20224.

 

 

 

member of a targeted group. This form

law. Generally, tax returns and return

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

may also be given to the Internal

information are confidential, as required

Do not send this form to this address.

Revenue Service for administration of

by section 6103.

Instead, see WHEN AND WHERE TO FILE in

the Internal Revenue laws, to the

 

the separate instructions.

 

 

Department of Justice for civil and

 

 

 

 

 

Form 8850 (Rev. 1-2012)

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Details
Active Application Period This application remains active for a period of 90 days from the date of submission.
Personal Data Requirement Applicants must fill out the personal data section using ink to ensure legibility.
Drug-Free Workplace Policy Big Lots requires that all employees undergo drug and alcohol testing, consistent with federal and state regulations.
Equal Opportunity Employment Big Lots maintains a policy of non-discrimination based on various classifications, including race, sex, and disability.
Criminal History Disclosure Applicants must disclose convictions related to violent crimes or retail-related crimes, though such disclosures do not automatically disqualify them from employment.
Education Verification Applicants must provide information about their educational background, including institution names and degrees earned.
Work Authorization Requirement Proof of legal entitlement to work in the U.S. must be provided by the applicant if hired.
Employment History Requirement All previous employment, including military service, must be listed in chronological order, starting with the most recent employer.
Reference Checks Big Lots reserves the right to contact past employers and personal references for verification of the applicant's employment history.
At-Will Employment Statement Employment with Big Lots is “at-will,” meaning either the employee or the company can terminate employment at any time for any reason.

Guidelines on Utilizing Lots Job Application

Once you have obtained the Lots Job Application form, it’s time to fill it out thoroughly and accurately. Taking your time to provide the necessary information will increase your chances of making a strong impression. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the application process.

  1. Begin by filling in your personal data. Write your name (last, first, middle), contact phone number, and address including city, state, and ZIP code. Don't forget to include your email address.
  2. Specify the positions you are interested in and indicate your salary requirements.
  3. Answer whether you are under the age of 18 and, if so, state your age.
  4. Indicate if you have previously worked for Big Lots and, if yes, provide details of when and where.
  5. Confirm your eligibility to work in the United States by answering yes or no.
  6. List any friends or relatives currently employed at Big Lots.
  7. Indicate your availability to work by selecting any necessary options for shifts including anytime, days, evenings, or weekends. Note any specific times or days you are unavailable.
  8. Address whether you have been convicted of any violent crime, retail-related crime, or drug trafficking. Provide additional details if necessary.
  9. Proceed to fill out your education history. Include the type of school, name, location, area of study, the last year you attended, and whether you earned a degree or diploma for high school, college, graduate, and other schooling.
  10. Provide references by listing three individuals (not relatives) who can speak to your job-related skills. Include their names, telephone numbers, emails, addresses, and occupations.
  11. Complete your employment history. Start with your most recent employer, detailing job title, responsibilities, dates of employment, and reason for leaving. Repeat this for each previous employer. Remember to account for all periods of unemployment.
  12. Indicate whether you allow Big Lots to contact your previous employers for references and if they may contact you at your place of employment.
  13. Review your answers carefully to ensure accuracy and completeness. Sign and date the application at the end.

Following these steps will help you present a comprehensive application to Big Lots. After submission, be prepared for next steps, which may include interviews or further assessments as part of their hiring process.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the duration of the Big Lots employment application process?

The Big Lots employment application is considered active for a period of ninety (90) days from the date of submission. This means that your application will remain on file for potential openings within that timeframe. If you have not heard back regarding your application status during those 90 days, you may wish to consider resubmitting your application or exploring new opportunities.

Can I submit my application if I am under the age of 18?

Yes, you can submit your application if you are under the age of 18. However, it's essential to note that you will need to indicate your age on the application form. Additionally, if hired, you may be subject to specific regulations related to youth employment. Big Lots encourages young applicants to apply and values the contributions of younger employees.

What should I do if I have a criminal record?

If you have a criminal record, you can still apply for a position at Big Lots. A "yes" response regarding a conviction will not automatically disqualify you from employment. Instead, it will be considered as part of your overall qualifications. You are not required to disclose any arrests or convictions that have been erased, annulled, sealed, or expunged. When filling out the application, be honest about your experiences, and provide context if necessary. Each application is evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

How does the application process account for education and employment history?

The application requires you to account for your educational background and your complete employment history, starting from the most recent position. Listing these details is crucial, as it gives potential employers insights into your skills, experiences, and qualifications. If you are currently employed, it is appropriate to state whether references can be obtained from your present employer. Transparency in your employment history is appreciated and can enhance your candidacy.

Common mistakes

Filling out the Big Lots Job Application correctly is crucial for making a positive first impression. Many applicants make critical mistakes that can hurt their chances of securing a job. Understanding these pitfalls can lead to a better application experience.

First, one common mistake is not completing the application fully. Incomplete applications might be set aside without consideration. Each section is designed to gather specific information about your qualifications. Ensure that you provide details regarding education, employment history, and personal data.

Next, inaccuracies in contact information can be detrimental. If a hiring manager cannot easily reach you, your application may be overlooked. Double-check that your phone number, email address, and home address are correct. This simple step can save a lot of frustration later.

Another frequent error involves the "work availability" section. If you indicate limited availability or fail to communicate your flexibility, it may deter potential employers. Indicating a willingness to work various shifts shows commitment and adaptability — qualities that many employers value.

Additionally, failing to provide references can be a critical mistake. Big Lots requires applicants to submit contact details for individuals who can vouch for their skills. If you do not provide this information, it may raise red flags regarding your professional network or experience.

Many applicants also forget to sign the application, which is essential for validation. A missing signature can lead to the application being classified as incomplete or invalid. Don’t overlook this detail; it can be the difference between moving forward and being rejected.

Employers appreciate honesty, yet some applicants misinterpret this by omitting information about prior criminal convictions. While a "yes" answer does not automatically disqualify you, failing to disclose might raise suspicions later. Transparency is key in the application process.

Another mistake is providing vague job descriptions in the employment history section. Instead of generic terms like "worked in retail," describe specific responsibilities and achievements. Highlighting your contributions can set you apart from other candidates.

Equally important is careful attention to spelling and grammar. Typos can signal a lack of professionalism and attention to detail. Take a moment to proofread your application thoroughly before submitting it.

Lastly, many applicants neglect to review the job-related qualifications carefully. Each position may have specific requirements. Familiarize yourself with these qualifications and tailor your responses accordingly. This demonstrates your keen interest and dedication to the job.

By avoiding these ten mistakes when completing the Big Lots Job Application, applicants can increase their chances of making a favorable impression. Taking the time to provide thorough, accurate, and professional information is invaluable in the competitive job market.

Documents used along the form

When applying for a position at Big Lots, several documents frequently accompany the Lots Job Application form. Each document serves a specific purpose in the hiring process. Understanding these forms can help candidates navigate their applications more effectively.

  • Resume: A detailed summary of an applicant's work history, education, skills, and qualifications. This document allows candidates to highlight relevant experiences and achievements.
  • Cover Letter: A personalized letter introducing the applicant to the employer. It should explain why the candidate is interested in the position and how their background aligns with the company's needs.
  • Form 8850: The Pre-Screening Notice and Certification Request for the Work Opportunity Credit. This form helps identify job seekers eligible for tax benefits related to their employment status.
  • References: A list of individuals who can vouch for the applicant's skills and work ethic. This document is essential for verifying the candidate's past experiences.
  • Background Check Authorization: This form grants permission for the employer to conduct a background check on the applicant, which may include criminal history and credit checks.
  • Drug Testing Consent Form: This document gives the employer permission to conduct drug testing as part of the hiring process, ensuring a drug-free workplace.
  • Tax Forms: Completed federal and state tax forms (like W-4) may be required if the applicant is hired. These forms ensure the employer has the necessary information for payroll processing.
  • Employee Eligibility Verification (Form I-9): Required by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, this document verifies that the applicant is legally allowed to work in the United States.

By being aware of these documents, applicants can prepare efficiently for the application process. Gathering them in advance may streamline submissions and demonstrate a proactive approach to potential employers.

Similar forms

  • Job Offer Letter: Like the Lots Job Application form, a job offer letter formally requests an applicant's acceptance for a position. Both documents require the applicant's personal details and employment history. The job offer letter often outlines essential job specifics, similar to the application’s focus on the roles the applicant is interested in.

  • Resume: A resume complements the Lots Job Application as it provides an overview of the applicant's qualifications and experiences. Just as the application form collects detailed information about employment history and education, the resume summarizes those same elements, though in a more concise format.

  • Interview Evaluation Form: Similar to the Lots Job Application, this document is used in the hiring process and gathers relevant information about a candidate’s qualifications. Both forms serve to assess the applicant's suitability for the position. The evaluation form may include responses to questions about the applicant’s potential fit, much like the application asks about availability and criminal history.

  • Employment Contract: This document, like the Lots Job Application, reflects the terms of employment. Once an applicant is hired, the contract lays out conditions of employment, including duties and compensation. Both the application and the contract emphasize understanding the expectations held by the employer.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Big Lots Job Application form, keeping certain best practices in mind can enhance your chances of making a good impression. Here’s a guide on what you should and shouldn't do:

  • Do read the entire application carefully before filling it out to fully understand what information is required.
  • Do complete the form in ink, ensuring everything is clear and legible.
  • Do provide accurate and honest information about your previous employment and educational background.
  • Do ensure that your contact information is correct so that potential employers can reach you easily.
  • Don't leave any sections blank. Every part of the application is important.
  • Don't add unnecessary embellishments to your qualifications. Stick to the facts.
  • Don't forget to sign and date the application; an unsigned application may not be considered.
  • Don't disclose any criminal history that has been sealed or expunged from your record, as this is not required.

By following these guidelines, you can submit a thorough and professional application that highlights your qualifications for the role at Big Lots. Taking your time and being meticulous with your answers will reflect your dedication and attention to detail.

Misconceptions

Misconceptions about the Big Lots Job Application form can sometimes create confusion for applicants. Below are common misunderstandings along with explanations to help clarify these points.

  • Everyone's application is held indefinitely. This is not true. The application is considered active for only ninety days. After that, applicants must reapply for any available positions.
  • Drug testing is optional. Many believe that drug testing is not a standard procedure. In fact, all employees are subject to drug and alcohol testing as permitted under federal and state laws.
  • You must disclose all criminal history. Applicants might think they need to disclose every interaction with law enforcement. However, it is important to note that individuals do not need to reveal any arrests or charges that have been expunged or sealed.
  • Previous convictions automatically disqualify you. Some applicants worry that even a minor conviction will lead to immediate disqualification. This misconception is misleading; a “yes” response regarding past convictions will not automatically disqualify someone from employment. It will be considered along with other qualifications.
  • A resume is sufficient without completing the application. Many believe that submitting a resume alone is enough. However, all sections of the application must be completed even if a resume is attached. This is essential for full consideration.
  • Personal references cannot be family members. Some may think they cannot list family members as references. While the application requests names other than relatives, using family members can be acceptable if no other contacts are available. However, professional references are preferred.

Key takeaways

When filling out the Lots Job Application form, keep these key takeaways in mind:

  • Be thorough and honest: Fill in all sections completely. Any missing information can delay your application or affect your chances.
  • Eighteen and older: Make sure to indicate if you are under 18 years old, as this may impact the job opportunities available to you.
  • Employment history matters: Include all employment, even if you have a resume attached. This includes military service and self-employment.
  • Drug-free workplace: Understand that all employees must comply with drug and alcohol testing procedures.
  • References are important: Provide the names of three people who can speak to your job-related skills, not family members.