How to Fill Out a Job Application So You Get the Interview

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By greenwahm
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If you follow these simple instructions while filling out your job applications then you are sure to get an interview.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Before you start applying for jobs

1. Create a fact reference sheet or get a standard job application form and fill it out completely. If you choose to use a reference sheet be sure to include all of the following information.

1. Work & volunteer history include dates of employment, company & organization names, addresses, and phone numbers.
2. Personal information such as education, and social security number
3. References with names, addresses, and telephone numbers
Step 2

Picking Up Your Application

1. Greet the receptionist or on staff employee politely when requesting an application. Say "thank you". Their first impressions are often shared with your potential employer.

2. The employer may want you to fill out the application on site, there may even be a position that needs to be filled right away and you might be interviewed immediately so be sure to dress professionally.

3. If given a choice as to filling the application out there or filling one out at home and bringing it back always bring it home to complete so you may have more time to perfect your application.
4. In case you need to fill the application out on the spot remember to bring:
• Pens blue or black ink
• Information reference sheet or sample job application.
• Copies of your resume

*Having all of the things you need to complete your application will leave a professional & responsible impression.
Step 3

Filling Your Application Out

An application may be submitted on paper or online. When filling out an online application it is beneficial for you to know that in most cases employers use the same job application for everyone regardless of the position you are seeking to fill, they then use key words to search through online applications in order to pull out all appropriate applicants for a specific position, so be sure to tailor you job skills and work experience toward your desired position. Completing the application properly is very important, because your application will be used to judge how well you follow instructions and how much care and effort you put into your work. Your application is an opportunity to present yourself to the employer. Remember to print neatly in blue or black ink & fill out the form truthfully and accurately. Try to avoid leaving blanks or questions unanswered on the job application. If a question on the application does not apply to your situation, then fill in not applicable, N/A or give an explanation. Be sure to read the entire application from front to back so you are aware of what you will be filling in where.
Step 4

Personal Information

Name field, look to see whether the employer is asking for first name or last name first. You don't want them thinking you can't even fill in your name correctly and you do not want any cross outs anywhere on your application.

Address Field, Use your mailing address as apposed to a physical address they may want to contact you through mail. Some applications will ask for both.

Phone number field, Use the number you will be most available at. Leave a professional impression with any answering messages or ringbacks. (You can always change them back after you get the job)

Education fields, list your most recent school information first. You'll need to include your major/s. You will also need the addresses. Include any relevant certification, licenses, or registration. Be prepared to present copies of certificates or other documents.
List relevant subjects of special interest, research work, hobbies & skills. Listing these will make you stand out from other applicants. include equipment tools & programs

Position availability, be honest when filling in your available hours you don't want to get stuck with a schedule you can't fill. Fill in "immediately" for the when can you start field unless you are currently employed then you should put that you need to give 2 weeks notice. An employer wants to know you would do the same for them.

Misdemeanor or felony convictions, Answer truthfully. If an employer finds out later on you could be fired for falsifying your job application. However don't volunteer potentially negative information if you don't have to.
Step 5

Work Information

Position desired field, list specific position or positions desired don't fill in "anything" or "any". Remember to spell the position titles correctly.

salary desired, write "negotiable" so you won't be weeded out for putting a salary that is too high or low. The employer has your work history to refer to and can look at the salaries paid previously.

Work history, list your most recent job first when completing employment information. Do not include potentially negative information. For example, instead of "fired", "quit", "late", or "absence"" you can use "moved" , "career change", "seasonal job", "business closed", "job ended," "temporary work," " laid off," " business moved," or "returned to further my education". Tailor this section to emphasize job skills and work experiences that are relevant to the position you're applying for. Make sure that the dates of employment don't overlap or conflict, and make sure they match up with your resume. Be sure to fill in the first and last name of your supervisors, and use the correct addresses and phone numbers. Explain all work history gaps.