Learn more about job applications and what to expect when you complete one.
What Is a Job Application?
A job application is an official form that employers ask all applicants for a position to fill out. You may fill out the application through a third-party job listing site or by visiting the website of the potential employer. Some employers may ask you to fill out a paper application. Employers use job applications because they provide a consistent format with the same questions that must be answered by each person who applies for an open position. Employers can easily compare the background and work experience of each applicant.
Alternate definition: The materials you submit to be considered for a job, including your resume and cover letterAlternate name: Employment application
How Job Applications Work
Unlike a resume and cover letter, which are written and formatted to highlight your most significant and impressive credentials, a job application is a list of questions that require factual responses. Some of the items you’ll typically be asked to include are:
Your personal information (name, address, email address, and phone number)Dates of employmentPositions heldNames and contact information for supervisorsDates and subject area of degreesWhere your degree was obtained (if applicable)
Fill out the application thoroughly, and proofread it for errors before you submit it. If you’re given a paper application to complete, see if you can take it home so you don’t feel rushed while filling it out. Job applications may also ask for the names and contact information of references and employers, especially direct supervisors. You may also be asked if your prospective employer can contact your current employer. You can answer yes or no; employers understand that you may not want your current employer to know you’re looking for another position. The job application may also ask for your Social Security number and your availability for work. At the end of the job application, you’ll be asked to sign or e-sign the application. Your signature verifies that all statements on the job application are true. It may also allow the employer to verify the information and give permission for reference checking, background checking, and often, reviewing the results of drug testing.
Example of a Job Application
Seeing a sample job application can help you prepare and gather the information you need before you get started. Name of position for which you are applying: _________________ Name: ________________________________________________ Address: ______________________________________ Apt./Unit________________ City: ___________________ State: __________________ ZIP Code: ______________ Phone: ___________________ Email Address: _____________ When are you able to begin work? _______________________________________ Are you legally eligible to work in the U.S.? Yes No Have you worked for this company in the past? Yes No Details: _______________________________________________
Employment History
Position Title: _____________________________________________________ Responsibilities: ___________________________________________________ Employer: _______________ From: __________ To: __________ Employer address: _________________________________________________ Manager: ______________________Phone: ____________________ May we contact this employer? Yes No Reason for leaving: _______________________________________________ Position title: _________________________________________________ Responsibilities: _______________________________________________ Employer: _______________From: __________ To: __________ Employer address: _____________________________________________ Manager: ___________________Phone: ____________________ May we contact this employer? Yes No Reason for leaving: ___________________________________________ Position title: ________________________________________________ Responsibilities: ______________________________________________ Employer: _____________________ From: __________ To: __________ Employer address: ___________________________________________ Manager: ______________________Phone: ____________________ May we contact this employer? Yes No Reason for leaving: ___________________________________________
Educational Background
Highest degree earned: ________ School: ______________________ Major: ________________Minor(s): _________________ Dates attended: From: ______________ To: ______________ Degree earned: ______________ School: ______________________ Major: ________________Minor(s): _________________ Dates attended: From: ______________ To: ______________ Degree earned: ______________ School: ______________________ Major: ________________Minor(s): __________________ Dates attended: From: ______________ To: ______________ List any work-related training and certifications. ___________________________________________________
References
Reference #1 Name __________________________________ Title ____________________________________ Contact information ________________________ Years known ______________________________ Reference #2 Name __________________________________ Title ____________________________________ Contact information ________________________ Years known ______________________________ I authorize you to verify the information listed above. I certify that the information contained in this employment application is accurate and truthful. I understand that providing false information on this application may be grounds for not offering me employment or for the termination of my employment at any point in the future. Applicant signature: ______________________________________ Date: ________________
