Purpose of a Job Application

Job applications are used worldwide to collect data from potential employees for the purpose of evaluating their qualifications. However, most job seekers are unaware that their applications are used to evaluate other skills, strengths and potential weaknesses.

Gathering Information

Job applications are questionnaires used by employers to gather critical proprietary data about prospective employees. They can be completed on paper or online, and typically ask submitters to disclose information about prior employers, credit history, criminal history and professional relationships. Most applications include a privacy statement along with a disclosure about the company's intent to conduct a background check.

Evaluating Applicants

Employers use applications to evaluate the experience, continuity of employment, educational background and overall potential of prospective employees. Larger companies are likely to screen applications in their Human Resource departments before forwarding them to hiring managers or supervisors. Smaller companies will forward job applications directly to the hiring manager.

Uncovering History

Since most employers are interested in evaluating the judgment, trustworthiness, character, and stability of their potential employees, they may use an applicant's social security number to check his or her credit history, criminal history or both. It is important to note that while background checks are a common practice, they are not conducted by all employers.

Adverse Credit or Criminal History

Positions that regularly handle cash, process credit cards and use personal information about customers are likely to require applicants to have no history of adverse credit or criminal problems.

First Impressions

Job applicants should be aware that applications are heavily scrutinized by hiring managers and HR professionals, with most reviewers paying meticulous attention to the applicant's obvious standard of care when completing the forms. Poor spelling, ineligible penmanship and wrinkled documents are typically viewed as indicators that the applicant lacks the ability to perform well as an employee. Partial answers and blatant omissions are likely to be viewed as evasion; such practices are frowned upon by hiring managers.