Tips for Filling Out a Job Application

Job applications are used by employers as a method of screening potential employees, so they are rather important for job-hunters. While many people simply list information that is already on their resume, employers want to see more than that. A job application is a chance for you to shine, displaying specific information about yourself which is not on your resume and helps you stand out from the crowd. Many employers use your job application as a guide for whether or not to give you an interview, so you want to take it as seriously and carefully as possible. If you take your time listing information about yourself which the employer does not know and will display why you would be a good fit with the company, you will have a solid chance of landing an interview. There are a few things you can do which will make your job application stand out, of course. Read below for more information on how to most properly fill out a job application.

If you are filling out your job application at the actual business location, which is often the case, make sure you come prepared. Dress nicely, as you want to impress even though you are not necessarily going to interview that day. Also make sure you have important documents on hand, including your resume, Social Security card, driver's license, previous employer histories, and so on. It is better to be over-prepared than not have enough information on hand, so bring as much as possible.

A lot of people try to fly through job applications to get them turned in as fast as possible, but employers do not really care about speed. A job application is your first chance to properly follow directions, so make sure you take your time. Read through the application before filling anything out so you are sure you understand how it works. Write neatly, particularly if you know you have sloppy hand writing. If possible, use an erasable pen so you will not have to scribble out or white out mistakes. It should be either blue or black as well.

Make sure your answers are specific to the job for which you are applying. List skills and previous accomplishments which are relevant to the job. If you are applying for a job that requires typing, for example, list the speed at which you type and relevant work experience with computers. Never lie or exaggerate on your job application, as this will simply create an unsuitable work situation should you get hired. Plus, a lot of employers give tests during the actual interview, so you will have a tough time getting through this if you are not honest on your application.

Also note that a job application is your chance to stand out from the rest of the applicants. Avoid generic answers like you are a "team player," instead opting for specific ways by which you can help the company. Explain past experiences that will help you succeed in the new position, trying to find ways in which you are truly superior to other job-hunters. Remember, securing any job is a competition, and nowadays that competition is fiercer than ever. You really need to show why you are the best man (or woman) for the job.

Make sure you do not leave any fields blank. Answer all sections, even if you are unsure of the answer. Never lie, but make your best guess if you are not sure. Employers have you fill out the application so they can get specific information, so the last thing they want to see is that you did not fill out all of the fields. If a particular question does not apply to you, you can write "not applicable."

Although you do not want your job application to simply be another version of your resume, you do want to make sure the two are consistent with one another. Make sure all employment history, including dates, reasons for leave, and so on are the same. Make sure all references, phone numbers, addresses, etc. are identical as well.

It is important to avoid listing salary requirements at this time. Even if an employer lists this field, you can write "flexible." It is too early in the employment process to list a desired salary. If you go too low, you will not be able to acquire the proper salary later. If you shoot too high, you may not even land an interview. You want the chance to impress in an interview prior to discussing money.

When finished, make sure you proofread the entire application. Be sure you have filled in all sections, listed all necessary information, and avoided spelling or grammar errors.