A job application is a tool that allows employers to learn about a job applicant’s work experience, skills, and education. Employers use the job application to compare and contrast applicants and decide which one is best for the job.
For many employers, a completed job application is the first step in the hiring process. Some employers require job applicants to submit an application and a resume. Others may not require one at all. However, when an application is requested, it’s an important part of the employment process and should be taken seriously.
Fill it out completely.
You may be required to fill out a job application on site, so be prepared to respond to all questions. Make sure to use N/A (not applicable) when a section does not apply to you.
Be neat.
When finished, your application should be clearly written in blue or black ink, and most importantly, free of errors.
Answers to Common Job Application Questions
Use the following tips to answer commonly-asked job application questions.
Have you ever been convicted of a violation of law other than minor traffic violations? If yes, explain.
Here, indicate whether or not you have been convicted of a crime (other than minor traffic violations) in civil or military courts. If you have not been convicted, write, “no.”

If you have a conviction on your record, write, “yes, see attachment” and supply a typed explanation. Include the nature of the offense, the date of conviction, location where convicted, and disposition (sentence, probation, etc.).
What position do you desire?
Indicate the position for which you are applying. Don’t leave this section blank or write "Any" or "Open". If you do not know the job title, write the department name. If you are applying for more than one job, ask if you should fill out more than one job application. Be ready to supply first and second choices with positions and geographic location.
Why are you interested in working for us?
To stand out from the rest of the applicant pool, research to find out more about the position, the organization's philosophy, and work environment.
More Answers to Common Job Application Questions
Chronicle your employment history.
For each employer, include name of employer, mailing and street address, phone number, title and the type of work performed, dates of employment, supervisor’s name, title, and contact information. If you are currently employed, write “present.” Also, be ready to explain any gaps in employment history over 90 days.
What are your salary requirements?
Write your last wage, salary rate, or salary range. If you’re not sure, write “competitive,” “negotiable,” or “open.”
Drug-free workplace.
If you see this phrase on a job application, expect to take and pass a drug test in order to be hired.
Want to get an idea of what different employers may be asking on job applications? Visit some companies and ask for an application. Or, search online for different samples.

What is a Reference?
If an employer is considering hiring you, he or she may ask you to supply a list of references. A reference is a person who, if asked, is willing to discuss your skills, abilities, job performance, and general character. Potential employers contact these references and ask a few questions about your former job title, dates of employment, duties, dependability, or productivity.
To improve your chances of getting a job, choose references who:
Are educated.
Are well-spoken.
Are thoroughly familiar with your skills and abilities.
Have a mutually respectful, working relationship with you.
Will speak positively about your work performance.
Remember, potential employers want to hear more than, “She’s very nice.”
Who is a Candidate?
Reference candidates may tell you they are not comfortable being used as a reference. By asking them ahead of time, they have a choice in the matter, and you can be assured that your references will be positive ones.
Possible reference candidates:
Current or former boss, manager, or supervisor
Current or former coworkers
Teachers or professors
Landlord
Fellow volunteer
Not a reference candidate:
Spouse or significant other
Family members
As a general rule, don’t list your immediate family members. They aren’t familiar with your work performance and most employers expect they’ll give a positive opinion.

Include your personal information.
Include your information at the top of the page. Your list of references may become separated from your job application or resume.
Use quality paper stock.
Again, use the same paper stock you used for your resume. If you don’t have a resume, quality white or cream computer paper will do.
Providing References
"References available upon request" is a phrase commonly listed at the bottom of resumes. However, hiring managers expect that you have references, so you may omit this phrase if you wish.
Because your list contains a great deal of personal infomation, it's common practice not to give out your list of references to potential employers unless you are asked. Employers may ask job applicants for references when filling out a job application or during an interview.
Before You List Anyone As a Reference, Ask
Always ask potential candidates if they will be a reference for you. If you've chosen correctly, your references should be happy to talk about your work performance. Better yet, when contacted, they'll be prepared.
Be aware that some employers can only give out your job title and dates of employment to future employers. If this is the case, be prepared to secure other references who can talk about your work performance.
How to ask for a reference:
Explain the type of work you are looking for.
Ask, "Are you comfortable being a reference for me?"
If they say yes:
Ask them for the following information (don't forget spelling):
First and last name
Title
Employer
Employer's street and/or mailing address
Phone number(s)
Email address (optional)
Then:
Provide them with a copy of your resume.
Tell them you will not use them unless an offer has been extended.
Ask them to call you if they are contacted.
Send them a thank you note or thank them in person.
Make sure any information you list is current. Potential employers won't spend time tracking down your references.