Working at a gas station can be a great entry-level job for students and those looking to gain retail or customer service experience. Many gas station chains like Shell now make it easy to apply online.
In this post, we’ll break down the Shell online application process step-by-step to help job seekers maximize their chances of getting hired.
Research Shell Careers & Locations
The first step is to browse Shell’s careers website at www.shell.us/careers to learn more about available positions. Shell operates gas stations, convenience stores and car washes across the US under brands like Shell, Motiva and Pennzoil Quaker State.
Take some time to familiarize yourself with Shell’s business divisions to get a sense of the types of roles available.
You’ll likely see openings for cashiers, customer service representatives, assistant managers and store managers at various locations. Consider commuting distance from your home as well since you’ll want to easily get to and from shifts.
Look over current job postings on the site to determine if any opportunities really spark your interest. Get a feel for qualifications, responsibilities and career progression paths.
Seeing specific ads can help you tailor your application materials accordingly to highlight relevant skills and experience.
Create an Online Profile
Once you’ve identified some positions of interest, it’s time to set up your candidate profile on Shell’s careers portal. Click “Apply Online” on any open ad or use the main navigation menu to get started.
You’ll be prompted to create a username and password for your account. Be sure to use an email address you regularly check as the system will contact you about the status of applications here.
Provide some basic contact and demographic info like name, address and phone number. You may also have the option to upload a resume at this stage for your profile, though it’s not required.
Finish setting up your profile by completing tasks like writing a career summary statement, choosing industries of interest and customizing your public profile page.
Take time to thoroughly fill out all requested fields to create a complete candidate profile for recruiters to review.
Search & Apply for Jobs
Once logged into your new candidate profile, click the “Job Search” link to browse currently open positions. You can filter by location, job title, requirement type and more to narrow your search results.
Read job descriptions carefully as they provide important details on responsibilities and qualifications. Assess how your skills and background match up to decide which roles to pursue applications for.
When you’ve selected a listing to apply to, click the “Apply Now” button. You’ll be prompted to fill out an online application form with questions covering areas like work history, education, availability and references. Be thorough but concise in your responses.
You’ll likely need to upload your resume again as part of the formal application. Make sure your resume highlights relevant experience, skills, awards and accomplishments that position you as a strong candidate for the role.
Follow Up Appropriately
Once your application is in the system, be patient as hiring processes can take weeks depending on the position and company needs. Resist the urge to frequently inquire about the status right away.
A good rule of thumb is to wait 2-3 weeks after applying before following up via phone or email. Address your correspondence to the hiring manager listed on the job posting if possible. Briefly reintroduce yourself and respectfully ask about next steps or timelines in the selection process.
Persistence can be important, but don’t become a nuisance. One follow up attempt should suffice initially. If you still haven’t heard back after another 2 weeks, a second polite inquiry is reasonable. Stay positive, professional and appreciative in all communications with recruiters and hiring teams.
Prepare for Interviews
Chances are good an online application alone won’t land you a job offer. If you move to an interview stage, thorough preparation is crucial. Do more research on Shell and the specific role. Anticipate common interview questions like scenarios, strengths, weaknesses and goals.
Have examples ready from your background to highlight skills relevant to the job duties. Come with thoughtful questions of your own as well to demonstrate initiative and interest in the company. Appearance, punctuality and enthusiasm throughout interviews will make a big impression too.
Consider Alternative Options
Not all Shell job opportunities may be posted online. Some general manager and shift leader roles may only be visible to existing employees. In this case, don’t give up – consider stopping by stores in your area to introduce yourself, ask about open positions and inquire about applying directly with managers.
Building relationships is important, so think of smaller ways you could get your name and skills known before a job opens up.
For example, filling out a comment card to praise great customer service could start a conversation. Attending job fairs where Shell recruiters appear may also net some referrals. Explore various angles to boost your candidacy.
Accept an Offer & Succeed Onboard
With diligent effort, your online Shell application may lead to a job offer or extend an invitation to participate in a company hiring event.
Don’t relax once hired – a probationary period often applies initially. Strive to quickly learn routines, meet or beat performance metrics, network internally and take on extra responsibilities to prove your value.
Request regular feedback from managers on your progress and ways to continuously improve.
Staying engaged, reliable, solutions-oriented and safety-conscious in your new role will set you up for future opportunities within Shell’s many careers options and growth paths.
Congratulations on landing the position – now keep up the great work to establish yourself as a top employee.
In Summary
Getting a job at Shell involves preparation, proactivity and following through after applying online.
With thorough research, well-crafted materials, resourcefulness, persistence and strong interview performances, your chances of success increase substantially. Develop familiarity with Shell’s business and careers website as a starting point.
Take full advantage of the online application system while considering creative offline angles too. Follow up politely while avoiding being overbearing. Aim to stand out positively from other candidates at every step.
With diligent effort, your new Shell career could lead to long-term possibilities within the company. Use this guide to maximize your potential as you pursue gas station jobs or explore other opportunities online.