Pitfalls to Avoid when Filling in an Application Form
When you're filling out an application form for a job, there are a few key points that can make or break your application's acceptance. Some very important clues are given to potential employers by what, how and where you place your information.Read the entire applicationRead the entire application from start to finish before you start filling in any information. Turn the page over and check the back. Some applications require you to fill out in pencil. Others require you to only fill in the last line, or simply to sign the page. These are tricks to determine whether you are a candidate who pays attention, who actually reads instructions. Read all instructions carefully.
Always fill in every lineEven if the information being asked doesn't apply to you, fill the space in with N/A - "not applicable". Not filling in this space will lead the reader to believe you either did not see the question or did not think it was important. Fill in every line on the application. If you don't have the information handy, such as dates or references, make this known by filling the line with "will supply later".
Always bring your informationAlways bring a list of personal and professional references, complete with their names, titles, postal and email addresses and phone numbers. Have the start and end dates of jobs handy as well as your bank reference information and school references. Be sure your personal references know you are using them and that it's permitted to use their information on an application.
Bring your resume
Check and update your resume before you go to apply for a job and always bring at least 2 copies with you. Job applications will often ask you to fill in your work history. Do it even if you brought a resume with you. Don't ask if you can skip this step. Don't write "See Resume". Applications are designed the way a company wants them. If they wanted a resume, they'd fill that in the space ("If you have a resume, skip this line and attach your resume to the application). Your resume should never be more than one page long. This is the maximum amount of time potential employers will want to spend reading it. If they like you, they'll ask for more information at which point you can bring out your long list of accomplishments and experience.
Bring a pen and pencil
Always bring something to write with. It's unprofessional to have to ask for a writing instrument, knowing you went in there to fill out an application. Bring both a pen and a pencil. If you have a choice, write in pencil so you can erase. If you erase, be sure to erase thoroughly without leaving smudges. This is an acceptable practice. If you are asked to use a pen and you need to make a correction, don't write over what you wrote. Use an X to cross out each and every letter in a word, then rewrite. Don't cram words into small spaces, rendering them unreadable. Always print. You may be able to read your own writing, but perhaps someone else can't.
Need glasses?
Bring your glasses and wear them when filling out your application. If you have difficulty reading and don't wear your glasses, you'll not only appear foolish, you'll be perceived as 'slow'.
Ask questions
It's okay to ask questions. If you don't understand something that is being asked on the application, ask for an explanation.
Don't abbreviate
Don't use abbreviations for names of companies, schools, towns or organizations even if they're well known. Many companies and organizations have the same initials. It's okay to abbreviate a state (TN, CA) and address suffix (Rd, St, Av, Dr, etc).
Add your name:
Be sure your name is on all pages of an application. Fill in the name line on the first page. If there is no name line (another employer application trick), put your name, phone number and email address in the upper right hand corner of the page and put your name only in the upper right hand corner of all subsequent pages.
Putting your best foot forward by taking your time, reading all instructions before beginning, being prepared, and giving the information asked of you is the best way to ensure you'll get your application read. Filling out an application correctly is the first important step to achieving your desired goal.
