When applying for a job, you will always have to fill out a job application form. If possible, complete the job application form at home or download it from an employer's Internet site. This form is "sacred" to the company and will become part of your personnel file if you are hired; it is important to complete it legibly and completely. Your resume and cover letter will not take the place of completing a job application form. It's a key factor for making a good first impression.

Do not leave any blanks on the form. When there is a space for an answer that is not applicable, write "N/A" (for "not applicable"). This shows the interviewer that you read the question and did not overlook it.

Prepare a "master job application form" in advance and keep it with you when completing application forms. This master serves as a template from which to copy information. It saves you from remembering places and dates of employment, important information, names of supervisors, telephone numbers, or having to reinvent terminology about job duties.

State/public job applications forms are available on the Internet or at the county employment department. When filling out an application, first read the job description. The goal is to transpose key job description requirements onto the form. The job application forms are screened for a match between your skills and abilities and those of the job description. Some employers use computer technology to screen for skill "buzz" words. The more similar your work experience and the job description, the greater your chances for an interview.

It is not unusual for job application forms to contain questions about your "desired salary" or "salary history." Avoid revealing this information. One rule is "Whoever mentions a number first loses" or at least is at a disadvantage.

For the "desired salary" question, the employer may have a higher number in mind than the applicant. You may have a higher number in mind than the employer. You can't know what the job is worth until you know the employer's expectations and responsibilities for the position. When prompted to complete questions about "desired salary," consider writing, "prefer to discuss" or "negotiable."

Benefits in your salary history may add about 40% additional compensation. Consider writing a salary "range" on the application form incorporating your total compensation, calculating the salary you anticipate at your next performance evaluation, and add 15% for incentive negotiations. Before completing salary questions on a job application, read Chapters 19 and 20 in the book, Catch Me When I Fall: A Smooth Landing for the Well-Prepared Job Seeker.

Your salary history is not relevant to the job you are applying for and employers may use the information as a gauge for current salary negotiations. In the interview, tell the employer you would be happy to discuss your salary history when it is determined that you are the best candidate for the job. If pressed, ask the employer why your salary history is pertinent to the job opening. Decide whether to politely express that your salary history does not appear necessary to determine whether your qualifications are a good fit for the job, then get back to discussing the job responsibilities. If you are absolutely required to provide the information, you must assess the employer's motivation and integrity, and make a decision whether or not you would want to reveal the information or work for the company.