Job applications

• Read the entire application before you complete it. 
• Pay close attention to the questions being asked and the specific information you need to provide to answer them. 
• Avoid writing in sections that say "Do Not Write Below This Line" or "Office Use Only." 

• Make a personal record of your information or keep a copy of your Practice Job Application answers. Include your educational history, past employers, employment dates, contact details including emails and phone numbers, and addresses. Use it to help you fill out applications. 
• Most applications will ask for references. Be sure to collect contact information from your references and include them in your personal information sheet. 
• Do not use abbreviations, except for "n/a" (not applicable). 
• Respond to all questions. In case a question does not apply to you, use "n/a" to show that it does not apply. This shows the employer you did not overlook anything. 

• If you're responding to a job posting or looking for a specific position, enter that job title.
• If you are not applying for a specific position, enter the name of the department you’d like to work in.
• Avoid writing “any job”, as this can create confusion. Fill out more than one application if you are interested in more than one job.

• Employers may use this question to screen out applicants. Give a salary range, or list "negotiable", even if you know the wage. This leaves you room to negotiate a higher salary. Learn what salary range to ask for.

Keep your explanations short and positive. Choose your words carefully with this question. Avoid using the words "fired", "quit", "illness", or "personal reasons". Here are some possible ways to handle this question.

• Fired. If you were fired, consider using the term "involuntary separation" instead of "fired" or "terminated".
  • Consider contacting your past employer to ask if they're willing to use the term "resigned" for a reference check. You could explain you’re applying for jobs, and that a termination can hurt your chances. Bring a positive, professional manner.
  • If asked on the application or interview, note the source of what led to your being let go, and avoid blaming the employer. Focus on how this job would be different or what you've done to improve or change any part you were responsible for. 
• Quit. If you quit your job, use the term "resigned" or "voluntarily separated." These indicate you followed proper procedures. If asked, here are some ideas for responses:
  • Left for a better job. May include that you left for advancement potential, work closer to home, better work environment, or for a career change. 
  • Left to move to a different location.
  • Left to attend school or training.  The job end date should align with your education/training start date.
  • Left for other reasons. May include an extended vacation/sabbatical, volunteer work, starting a business, caring for family, or other.
• Laid off. If you were laid off, include the reason, such as lack of business, lack of operating funds, temporary or seasonal job, plant closed, company downsized, corporate merger.

• Applications occasionally include illegal questions, such as asking you about your: race, religion, creed, national origin, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, age, and disability.
• You may choose to answer these questions but are not obligated to.

• Answer all questions honestly; false information can be grounds for dismissal.
• Provide only the information that the employer asks for.

• When listing your past work, education, and skills, focus on the qualifications that are relevant to the job requirements. Research the company, its products or services, and the skills needed for the job to determine what's most relevant.

• For free computer access to complete job applications, visit a local American Job Center or public library in your area. Bring a USB drive to save your work or email a copy of your job application to yourself. You can create a free email account at EmailAddresses.com.

• Attach a copy of your resume. Save your resume as a Word doc and as a PDF (can use Google Docs to convert to PDF ) to attach to job applications. You should be able to browse your computer or a USB drive to attach one of these versions. 
• Paste your resume into the online application.  Check and correct resume formatting if you copy and paste the resume into the application form.
• Enter information one field at a time.  Some online applications only allow you to paste resume sections, such as one past employer. It’s time-consuming but may be more accurate than if you type in each entry manually.
• Most application forms have a "Help" button or link if you get stuck.
• Need to send a resume and cover letter instead of a job application? Visit the Resume Guide , or learn more about Cover Letters.

• Use your Practice Job Application printout or write out your answers on a blank sheet of paper before completing the application. 
• Use a black, erasable pen, and print clearly.
• Make sure your grammar and spelling are correct. If possible, have someone else review the application to catch any errors.
• Use correction fluid ("white out") to fix minor errors if needed.