Job Application Form

Tips for Completing a Job Application Form

At one point or another in your job search, you will be required to fill out a job application form. You are probably wondering why an employer would have you complete an application, particularly if you have given them your resume. There are a couple of reasons why a potential employer wants you to do this.

First, a job application form standardizes the type of information an employer receives from an applicant. There is no guarantee that the hiring manager will get all of the data he or she requires from a resume. For example, the hiring manage may need the contact information for the applicant’s current or previous supervisors, which is typically not found on a resume.

Another reason is to make sure the company complies with federal and state laws. Some information requires permission from the applicant to obtain. For example, an employer may conduct background checks. Employers need you to agree to this investigation in writing and a job application form makes it easier to secure and record your answer.

Correctly filling out a job application form is critical to the process of securing employment. In addition to telling the hiring manager about yourself and your work experience, you will also be signaling to the person that you know how to follow directions. This is a trait that employers look for in the people they want working for them. You would be surprised at how many people are passed over for a job they would be perfect for, simply because they did not fill out the application right.

Typically the job application form will ask for personally identifying information first such as your name, address, phone number, age or birth date, and social security number. Most of this information is needed for tax purposes. If you are a student, it is best to give the address of your permanent home. This is where your end-of-year tax forms will be sent so you can file your state and federal income tax paperwork.

Your employer will want to know if you are eligible to work in the U.S. and you must be able to furnish the correct documentation supporting your claim. For natural citizens, a state identification and social security number is usually enough. For people who are not U.S. citizens, then you may be required to furnish a work visa or other paperwork documenting your status in the country. Additionally, if you are under the legal working age (15-16 years in some states), then you will need to furnish the appropriate documentation that you can be legally employed.

The most important part of the application is your work history. Your employer wants to know if you have experience in the job you are applying for, and get a sense of your work ethic. Unlike a resume, you will generally be required to list your previous employment in reverse chronological order starting with your current position.

Employers like to see a consistent work record without any major gaps in employment. If you are unemployed for three months or more, then be prepared to explain why. One way to overcome this is to do volunteer work when you are out of a job. This accomplishes two things. Volunteering can cover gaps in work history. It also signals to the hiring manager that you are willing work even if you are not getting paid.

All applications will ask about your job duties. List the duties where you had a significant impact first. For example, if your work as a salesperson generated a significant amount of revenue for the company, then list that first. Additionally, the job duties you list should align with the requirements of the job you are applying for. If you are applying for a supervisory position, for instance, lead with the duties where you were required to perform this function.

Lastly, the job application form will ask information about your education. List the relevant data as well as any special skills you have that may help you in the job position you are applying for. Most modern applications do not ask for references. However, if it does, then list people you have worked with previously. Do not list friends or family members. Not only does this look unprofessional, your employer is more interested in how you are as an employee not as a friend or sibling.

Depending on the position, there may be a space on the job application form for you to list your salary requirements. If you are comfortable doing so, you can list an hourly or yearly amount. However, it is also acceptable to write the word “negotiable” on the form as well. This indicates you are open to negotiating your wage. Doing this also prevents your job application form from being thrown out because you are asking for more money than the job is willing to pay.

Take your time with the job application form and fill out all of the required information. The application is the employer’s first impression of you and you want to put your best foot forward.