Completing a Job Application

If you’re asked to fill out a job application, be prepared. If you have all of your important information on a single sheet of paper, the process will go a lot quicker.

You'll need such information as past employment, education, and names and phone numbers of three people who have agreed to be your references. Employers often call an applicant's references to verify a person's experience and qualifications, as well as to get an idea of what kind of a person you are.

Ideally, your references will be past supervisors who can speak highly of your skills and work ethic. Former coworkers can also vouch for your abilities and even prior customers can offer helpful references. If you aren’t comfortable writing down any job-related references, think of people who can vouch for your character, such as neighbors or community leaders. If at all possible, avoid naming family members as references, since potential employers may view that as a negative.

Never lie on an application. If your lie is discovered, it could keep you from being hired or it could cause you to be fired later on. If you're reluctant to answer some questions, you may want to write "wish to discuss" on that part of the application. If, for example, you have a minor criminal record, try to take some time in the interview to explain how your life has changed since the offense happened and why it shouldn't be held against you.

If you will be turning in an application personally—or going to a place of business to fill it out—arrive well-dressed and be courteous to everyone you meet. Also, bring at least two forms of identification, such as a driver's license or Social Security card. The employer may want to make photocopies of them.

The Job Application Worksheet can help you gather all the pertinent job data you'll need to fill out an application as easily as possible.