No matter the type of job you're applying for, there are some common sections and questions you can expect to see on applications. It's important to understand how exactly to fill out these sections to ensure you're submitting your application to the best of your ability. Read more to learn about how to fill out common job application sections! 

Upload a resume and add your work experience 

Regardless of what type of job you're applying for, you will be asked to submit a resume. Your resume is your first impression on employers, so it's essential to make sure it's well-organized, easy to understand, and accurately captures your work and academic experience. It's usually best to upload your resume as a PDF (rather than a Google or Word Document) so that it cannot be edited once it's submitted. 

Oftentimes, you may find that once you upload your resume, the text from it will automatically be populated into the Work Experience section of the job application. If this is the case, be sure to read carefully through each Work Experience box or section to make sure they're populated correctly and contain no spacing errors or typos.

Before uploading and submitting your resume, make sure that it contains keywords from the job description. Many companies use AI technology to filter the resumes they receive based on keywords in the job description. The closer the wording of your resume matches the keywords from the job description, the better chance it will have of standing out.

Need some feedback on your resume? Send it to us for free review! We'll have it back to you in a week with personalized, actionable feedback.

Submit a cover letter

Some jobs may require you to submit a cover letter, while others won't. The purpose of a cover letter is to express your interest in the specific position you're applying for, while highlighting all the skills that make you the best candidate for it. Submitting a cover letter even when it's not required can go a long way in demonstrating your excitement and interest in the job! When submitting your cover letter, be sure that it's also in PDF format (like your resume) so it can't be edited. 

Select your work availability

Some jobs will ask you to select your work availability on a daily or hourly basis. Be sure you are certain about your availability before filling out this section, so that if you are hired, you have a general idea of when you will need to work. 

Answer diversity survey(s)

Many employers will include a short survey at the end of a job application asking you to provide your ethnicity, race, and/or gender. This survey is entirely optional, and your answers on it will not be connected to the rest of your application. 

Share your LinkedIn profile

Many job application portals will have a place for you to add a link to your LinkedIn profile. While this is usually optional, we recommend adding your LinkedIn anyways to help an employer get to know you a bit more. 

Consent to a background check

Depending on the type of job you're applying for, you may be asked to consent to a background check. Background checks usually reveal things such as your credit report, identity verification, criminal history, driving record, and more. Background checks are typically mandatory. 

Source: LinkedIn

Sign the job application

When you finish completing your job application, you will be asked to confirm that all the information you've provided is true and accurate. Honesty is the best policy, so if you're reviewing your application and notice that something needs to be fixed, fix it before submitting.  

Check your email (and spam folder)

After you submit your application, check your email (both your inbox and spam folder) for confirmation that your application was received. Depending on the position you applied for, there may also be an online assessment to complete in order for your application to be processed. If you have to complete an assessment, do it ASAP. 

Follow up

Once you’ve confirmed that your application has been received, be sure to follow up with the hiring manager if you have their contact information. Sending an email or calling the employer to thank them for the opportunity and ask if there is a timeline for hearing back on the next steps shows that you’re motivated, confident, and excited about the job!

Have any questions about applying for jobs? Text #Jobs to 33-55-77 to chat with one of our advisors. If you're using a mobile device, click here to have the text message set up for you!