How to Correctly Fill Out a Job Application

Filling out a job application should be a fairly simple process if you've put together information ahead of time. The most important part of any job application is your work history. Many applicants make the common mistake of thinking that excluding pertinent contact information or job history specifics is no big deal; this couldn't be further from the truth. In fact, incorrectly or incompletely filling out a job application can cost you the opportunity to get the job of your dreams. Here are some tips on how to correctly fill out a job application so you can avoid some of the more common pitfalls of this process.

Things You'll Need

• Resume
• Contact information for your previous employers (names, addresses and phone numbers)

Instructions

1. Fill in your own contact information first. Be sure this information is up to date and correct, as this is how a potential employer will contact you for a job. Be complete when listing your address, and include all of your phone numbers as well as your email address. If you are listing multiple phone numbers, it is important to note what kind of numbers they are: cell, work, home, friend, family member. Read over this information carefully before submitting your application to be sure that the numbers listed are correct and haven't been accidentally transposed.

2. Fill in other specifics, such as educational background and special certifications. Don't just list that you have a bachelor's degree. List the name, address, phone number and Web site of the university from which you received the degree and the specialty you majored in. If you have more than one degree, you must list this information for all of them. Being thorough not only helps potential employers get references and background information easily, but it also makes you look just that much more efficient and organized.

3. Give a complete accounting of your employment history. Not only should you list dates, job titles and specific responsibilities, but you should also highlight awards, special commendations and anything else that made you stand out as a star employee during your tenure with the company. List your supervisors and their contact information, including phone numbers and email addresses. If you changed positions during your time at a particular company, start with your original position and list your changing job titles as you worked your way up the career ladder. Some applications may not have room for you to list some of this information. If this is the case, in the interest of filling out the form as completely as possible, attach a copy of your resume to the application so potential employers will have a full accounting of your employment history.

4. Write neatly, answer questions in complete sentences and try to answer every question or query on the application. If there are things on it that don't apply to you, then simply write in "Not Applicable" or "N/A." Be sure to write as neatly as possible and take your time filling out the application to minimize the amount of mistakes. If you make a mistake and aren't too far into the application, then start over, if you have an extra copy. If not, carry white-out with you to properly erase your mistake. You might also consider using an erasable pen to fill out job applications. Answer questions concisely and with the most amount of information in the least amount of words.