by Denise Gabbard

Created on: June 05, 2009   Last Updated: June 06, 2009

Your goal when you submit a resume or fill out a job application, is to get an interview for that position. While getting hired would be great, that won't happen if your application is not good enough to get you in the door to talk with the company! This article will deal with some of the common mistakes people make, and how you can avoid them.

*Follow directions - If they tell you to apply online, don't show up at their door, and fill out the forms in purple ink if that's what they ask you to do. Remember, he who has the gold makes the rules!

*Fill it out completely - If something is not applicable to you, put N/A. You don't want to throw up a red flag by leaving something out the company thinks is important.

*Print neatly and legibly - If your printing is horrible, practice until it gets better. If they can't read your writing, chances are they'll move on to someone else.

*Accuracy and honesty are key - You will need accurate dates of employment and contact information for your previous jobs. You should list your last three jobs, or the last five years of history. There really is no need to fill the application with more than that, since your most recent history is also most relevant.

*Fill those gaps - If you have gaps in your employment history, it appears as those you have trouble holding a job. So, when at all possible, fill those gaps. If you took time off work to deal with a family issue, say so on your application. Maybe you worked part time or tried your hand at entrepreneurship or volunteer work. Put it on your application.

*Show yourself in the best light - Always be honest, but try and show only the best of what you have to offer. If you had two supervisors at your last job, have them call the one you got along with best. Another point is to be certain to toot your own horn! A job application is no time to be modest.

*Anticipation - If there is less than flattering information going on that form, mark the application will discuss. This is time for a little soul-searching. If you were fired from your last two jobs for missing time, you need to address the issue and also explain how you have corrected that problem.

If it was a personality conflict, steer clear of the discussion about who was right or wrong. This is a fight you can't win. Instead, explain that the position didn't offer the opportunities that you are looking for, and you are excited to be interviewing for this job, because you know it's a great fit!

*Criminal Offenses No - don't leave this blank. If the answer is that you have none, mark it that way. If, on the other hand there are a few skeletons in the closet it needs to be dealt with honestly. But only answer the question being asked! Many states have laws that limit the amount of time a conviction can be used in employment decisions ten years is a good rule of thumb, but check out your particular state's laws.

Another bit of advice is to try and have the offense sealed or expunged. Many people are not aware that they can do this, but generally your first conviction can be sealed. Be realistic, and be aware that certain more sensitive jobs, and certain offenses will seem much worse to an employer.

*Other Qualifications - Most applications will have space to list other qualifications and experience. I would use that space for your elevator pitch - a 30 second synopsis of why you're a great catch!

Keep these tips in mind the next time you fill out a job application, and your next step will be preparing for the interview!

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