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.

When completing the application

Once you are ready to begin filling out an application, you should first read carefully through the application. You must take your time when completing this application. Think carefully before you answer any questions that involve an in depth response. Write very neatly so that your application is easy to read and understand. Be sure to spell correctly and use proper grammar. Ask if you can have two applications in case you do make an error.

Make sure you include any experience, skills and knowledge you have that may be related to the job for which you are applying. This includes not only your employment history but also any relevant volunteer experience or even relevant hobbies. In some cases even the activities you may have participated in when in school or college can be pertinent. For instance, your participation in a sport or extra curricular activity might demonstrate your determination, perseverance and you ability to work well as part of a team. These are all qualities that almost any employer is seeking in their staff.

If the application asks you to list any other skills or any special skills, do so. This section provides you with an opportunity to show a prospective employer how you stand out above the crows or what unique talent and skills you have. If your work experience is a lot like a dozen other applicants and you all have a Bachelor’s Degree, your special skills could make the difference between you getting called for an interview or not. When you come to the section that asks you for references, remember not to write down friends unless they have actually worked with you or can provide a first hand professional reference for you. Also you are not to include family members as a reference. Former co-workers, leaders of community organizations whom you know well and other business associates are a great start for references. For high school and college students, you may ask some of your teachers or professors if you can provide their names as a reference. Other possible references would include neighbors or coaches of one of your sports teams.

Do not leave out any important information. An application is a chance for you to provide an overall view of yourself. You will want your application to be a good reflection of you and your work ethic. Try to identify your strength and take the opportunity to identify what you can bring to the company if you are hired. Remember to include activities you were involved in as a student, any community groups you are active with now or have been in the past. Also, include any volunteer work you have done in the past or are involved with now.

Never leave any questions blank on an application. If for some reason, you cannot answer a question you should then write in an explanation as to why. In addition, do not forget to sign your application an date where applicable. Before handing in your completed application take the time to read over your application once more. Again make certain that you have not made any spelling or grammatical errors. Always be completely honest on an application. Good Luck!