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Job Applications

Ready to apply for a job? Often, the job application is your first step.

Employers use job applications to gather information about your qualifications, and to compare you to other applicants. Here are some tips for completing applications successfully.

Follow directions

Avoid having your application rejected because you filled it out wrong.

  • Read the entire application before you complete it.
  • Pay close attention to what is being asked and how you are expected to respond.
  • Do not write in sections that say "Do Not Write Below This Line" or "Office Use Only."

Fill out applications neatly and completely

To make sure that your application creates the best impression and answers the employer's questions:

  • Before you leave home, gather all the information that might be required on an application, such as dates, names, addresses, telephone numbers, etc. Write it all on a personal data sheet, and use it as you fill out the application.
  • Most applications will ask for references. Bring along all the information you'll need, preferably on your personal data sheet.
  • Do not use abbreviations, except for "n/a" (not applicable).
  • Respond to all questions. If a question does not apply to you, use "n/a" to indicate that it is not applicable. This shows the employer that you did not overlook anything.

If you are filling out a paper application:

  • Make a rough draft. Write out responses using a separate sheet of paper before completing the real application. An alternative is to get two copies of the application and use the first one as a rough draft.
  • Write clearly. Use black, erasable pen and print clearly, or use a typewriter.
  • Proofread. Make sure that you have no grammar or spelling errors. If possible, have someone else proofread the application— they'll catch errors that you won't see.
  • Keep it neat. Use correction fluid ("white out,") for fixing minor errors. Be sure to use it sparingly.

Always list your "position desired"

Avoid leaving this question blank. Also, do not use the responses "Any" or "Open."

  • If you're answering an employment ad, or if you are looking for a specific position, enter that job title.
  • Enter the name of the department in which you wish to work, if you are not applying for a specific position.
  • Fill out more than one application if you are interested in more than one job.

Give a range for your salary requirements

Employers may use this question to screen out applicants. It is best to give a salary range or "negotiable", even if you know the wage. This leaves you room to negotiate a higher wage.

Give positive reasons for leaving past jobs

Choose your words carefully with this question. Avoid using the words "Fired", "Quit", "Illness", or "Personal Reasons". Always look for positive statements to use in answering this question. Here are some possible ways to handle this question:

If you were fired:

  • Do not use the terms "fired" or "terminated". Consider using "involuntary separation."
  • You may want to call past employers to find out what they will say in response to reference checks. When contacting past employers, reintroduce yourself and explain that you're looking for a new job. Find out what they say when asked why you left their employ. Be honest that your termination hurts your chances of getting another job. Usually, past employers will agree to use the term "resigned." This response saves them potential headaches and even lawsuits.

If you quit your job, use the term "resigned" or "voluntarily separated." These responses indicate that you followed proper procedures in leaving the job. If the application asks for a reason (or if you are asked in the job interview), you can respond as follows:

  • Quit for a better job. This response includes: leaving for advancement potential, leaving to work closer to home, leaving for a better work environment, or leaving for a career change. If you quit for a better job, there should not be a long break in employment; your employment history should support the statement.
  • Quit to move to another area.
  • Quit to attend school. If you use this reason, the education listed on your application and/or resume must reflect it.
  • Quit for other reasons, such as: took an extended vacation/sabbatical, did volunteer work, started own business, raised family.

If you were laid off from a job due to no fault of your own, indicate the reason for the layoff. Here are some possible phrases to use:

  • Lack of work
  • Lack of operating funds
  • Temporary employment
  • Seasonal employment
  • Company closed
  • Plant closing
  • Company downsized
  • Corporate merger

Illegal questions

Applications may contain questions that are illegal to ask before a conditional offer of employment. According to the Minnesota Human Rights Act, these include questions about the following subjects:

  • Race
  • Color
  • Religion
  • Creed
  • National origin
  • Public assistance
  • Sex
  • Marital status
  • Sexual orientation
  • Age
  • Disability

You need to decide how you will respond:

  • If the question does not bother you, answer it.
  • If it does, you can use "n/a." But be aware that you may get screened out by having too many of these responses. If possible, you may also decide to choose a different employer.

For more information, see Legal Interview Questions or the Minnesota Department of Human Rights.

Be positive and honest

During your job search, you want to present a positive, honest picture of yourself:

  • Avoid any negative information.
  • Honestly answer all questions. The information that you provide may become part of your permanent employment record. False information can become the basis for dismissal.
  • Provide only the information that the employer is seeking or that is necessary to sell your qualifications.

Target your qualifications

Increase your chances of gaining an interview by carefully selecting what you will include on the application. Many applications have limited space to record your skills, experience, and accomplishments.

  • Include only those qualifications that meet the specific needs of the job. To help you know what information to include, research the company, its products or services, and the skills needed for the job.
  • Attach a resume that details your skills, experience, and accomplishments.

Remember that not all employers require an application. Some prefer that you submit a resume.

Source: Creative Job Search, Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development and the Minnesota Department of Human Rights.