Following all these points will start the interview off on the right track.
Completeness – all information needs to be filled out, writing “see resume” on your application is not only unacceptable but shows laziness and lack of communication skills. After completing the application review all pages before handing it in to ensure nothing was missed, don’t have the interviewer ask you to complete something during the interview.
Neatness – you need to write neatly to ensure all items are readable, illegible handwriting makes a bad impression and will start the interview off on the wrong foot.
Stays within the lines – simple as a coloring book, keep your handwriting within the provided spaces; this shows your control with details.
Speed – if you take an excessive amount of time to complete your application it can work against you. Having your sample application with you will speed up the process.
Consistency – dates and work history needs to match your resume, if they are different be prepared to explain the discrepancies.
Honesty – don’t lie on your application, you’re signing the application for its truthfulness and accuracy. All employment dates, salary information and education needs to be accurate. With today’s technology it’s easy for companies to perform a detailed background check. It’s also common for a company to ask for a copy of a W-2 to verify salary. Using false information on an application can result in losing a job offer or employment if discovered later.
Pen – be prepared and bring a pen to the job interview, you should never have to ask to borrow a pen. We recommend blue ink to assist in noticing skipped information.
Resume – bring copies of your resume and give a copy with your application. Bring 5 copies in case there is a panel interview where several members interview you at the same time.
References – have a copy of your list of references and give a copy with your application.
Recommendations – if you have any letters of recommendations hand them in with your application