It’s been said that the first impression is the most important. When you set out to look for a new job, you might think of an interview as being the first impression. However, the first impression a potential employer really has of you comes from your application or resume. If you do not spark their interest with your application, there will not be an interview.

Be Prepared to Complete an Application Before You Leave Home

If you are going to go to a potential employer’s place of business to fill out an application, you must go prepared. Before leaving home you should prepare some notes to take with you as a reference when you are completing the application. For example, write down the addresses and phone numbers of any previous employers. Keep in mind that you will often be asked to provide 2-4 references on a job application. Decide who you will use as professional references before you set out to apply for a job. Make sure you know the addresses and phone numbers of your references. You should ask a few people in advance if they would mind if you provide them as a reference when you apply for jobs.

In some instances, you have already sent a resume and are then asked to complete an application. Employers often use the application so that they have further details about you. The application also provides as a form with important information such as your phone number and address for an employer to keep on file. Normally, all applications must be signed and this therefore provides employers with a signed copy of your personal information, work history and educational history. If you have not already sent a resume, it is a good idea to take one with you so that you can include it with your application.

Think ahead about the way you may answer some of the questions on an application. Most applications are similar in nature. They will ask for personal information such as your name, telephone number and your address. You will be asked to provide your work history. Under this section you will normally be asked to include an employer’s name as well as what your job title and duties consisted of.

An application will also ask you about your educational history. Be prepared to write down where you went to school and or college. In some cases you will also be asked to provide the address of your school as well as the years you attended. As mentioned earlier, most applications will ask you to provide references. Many will ask for three professional references that you have known for at least one year.

Dress well even if you are simply going to complete an application. There are times when you will intend to spend a brief time completing and application and then wait several days to see if you are called for an interview. However, there are often times when you may be asked to stay for an interview the same day. This is why it is important to dress appropriately. In addition, you should allow enough time when you go in to complete an application in case you are asked to stay for an interview.