While job applications are becoming less and less commonplace, there are still many companies that utilize them for purposes that are varied. Retail and entry level jobs, for example, typically are filled by those who are just entering the workforce and likely do not have a resume.  Also, the larger companies’ HR departments utilize applications as a form of backup paperwork as well as a standardized procedure for screening prospects. Either way, filling out a job application is an important step in the job hunting process and should not be overlooked. Like your resume, it is the first thing an employer is going to see and you’ll want to be sure that you’ve displayed your best self that you can! If you’re a new job seeker, or just not used to filling out applications, it can be complicated and confusing, so it’s best to go in prepared. Here are some tips for filling out a paper application on location or at a kiosk, along with additional tips on filling out an application online:

Paper Applications

1. Be prepared and dress professionally. You’ll need to have on hand information on previous employers, along with addresses and telephone numbers along with past schools you’ve attended In addition, most employers require at least three professional references aside from your past superiors. References can also include any volunteer organizations you’ve worked for as well. Don’t think that just because you’re only filling out an application that they don’t notice the way you look. Dress your best.
2. Use black or blue ink, and write clearly. It is extremely important that your application be legible and it is expected to be in black or blue ink. If you are not a strong speller or have issues with grammar, bring a dictionary with you or fill out the application at home with some help.
3. Do not leave fields blank. If there are blank holes on your application, the HR manager will wonder what you are hiding. Sure, there are questions that may not pertain to you, but instead of leaving it blank, write “N/A.” This will at least show that you are thorough in your application.
4. Be truthful. You don’t want to stretch the truth on duties you’ve performed or titles you’ve held, and you certainly want to be forthcoming in the reasons you left past jobs. The employer will appreciate honesty more than they will likely find out the truth at some point.
5. Follow directions. Many times, applications are designed to weed out prospects who do not follow directions. The answers to some of the questions are not nearly as important as how you answer them, so if you are unclear about something, read through it thoroughly and follow instructions to the letter.
6. Add any hobbies, interests or certifications. Your outside activities provide additional insights into your personality and skills.

Online Applications

Most of the tips in the paper application section certainly apply for online applications as well, but with online apps you have a better opportunity to check your work to make sure it’s done correctly. Many online forms give you the option to cut and paste or download your resume, and the application will pull information from that document to fill in the various fields. While this is very convenient, the system often gets confused by formatting, so you’ll still want to make sure all of the pre-filled information is accurate. Also, HR managers typically use computer programs to screen your application against the potential job you are applying for. Make sure your experience qualifies you for the job and that your resume and application reflect that with key words, phrases and titles. In addition, companies such as Wal-Mart implement pre-screening tests to determine if applicants are qualified for an interview. Make sure you leave yourself enough time to complete the process. Finally, double and triple check all of your entries. Most of the time, the system will prompt you if a section is left blank, but it won’t if there are grammar errors, misspellings or dates that don’t match up.