If you quit your job, use the term 'resigned' or 'voluntarily separated.' These responses indicate that you followed proper procedures in leaving the job. Past employers will usually agree to use the term 'resigned.' This response saves them potential headaches and even lawsuits. Be honest that your termination hurts your chances of getting another job. When doing so, reintroduce yourself and explain that you're looking for a new job. You may want to call past employers to find out what they will say in response to reference checks.Do not use the terms 'fired' or 'terminated'.Here are some possible ways to handle this question. Avoid using the words 'fired', 'quit', 'illness', or 'personal reasons'. Choose your words carefully with this question. Give positive reasons for leaving past jobs. This leaves you room to negotiate a higher salary. It is best to give a salary range or list 'negotiable', even if you know the wage. Employers may use this question to screen out applicants. Give a range for your salary requirements.

Fill out more than one application if you are interested in more than one job.If you are not applying for a specific position, enter the name of the department in which you wish to work.If you're answering a job ad or looking for a specific position, enter that job title.Do not leave this question blank or use 'any' or 'open.' Use correction fluid ('white out') to fix minor errors, but use it sparingly.Īlways list your 'position desired'. If possible, have someone else review the application to catch errors you might miss. Make sure that you have no grammar or spelling errors. Use a black, erasable pen, and print clearly. Or get two copies and use the first one as a rough draft. Write out responses on a separate sheet of paper before completing the real application. If you are filling out a paper application: This shows the employer that you did not overlook anything. If a question does not apply to you, use 'n/a' to indicate that it is not applicable. Do not use abbreviations, except for 'n/a' (not applicable).Most applications will ask for references.This should include all the information you might need to complete an application like names of previous employers, employment dates, addresses, telephone numbers, etc. Before you leave home, create a personal data sheet.Make sure that your application creates a good impression by answering all the employer's questions. Do not write in sections that say 'Do Not Write Below This Line' or 'Office Use Only.'įill out applications neatly and completely.Pay close attention to what is being asked and how you are expected to respond.Read the entire application before you complete it.Avoid having your application rejected because you filled it out wrong. When you’re done you can save or print your answers to help you easily fill out real applications.įollow directions. You’ll answer real job application questions and get prompts for gathering the information you’ll need. When you’re ready to see what a real Job application looks like, visit Practice Job Application. Follow the tips below to make sure you make the most of your opportunity to get noticed by an employer. Employers use it to learn about your qualifications and compare you to other applicants. Filling out a job application is often your first step in applying for a job.

Reason for leaving on a job application