Skip to main content

Formswift: Streamline your hiring process with a job application form template

Finding the ideal candidate for your job openings can be a challenge. Customize our comprehensive job application template to gather crucial information effectively, enabling you to make informed hiring decisions.

A woman smiles in a home office with several sketches on the walls.
What is a job application form?

A job application form is used by employers to collect details from job seekers during the hiring process.

It includes sections for personal information, education, work experience, and references. This provides hiring managers with additional information when choosing a potential new employee.

An example of a job application form

Why use a job application form?

Provide a structured assessment

Job applications provide a structured format to collect consistent and comparable application information from candidates, facilitating a fair and efficient evaluation process.

Deliver comprehensive insights

They allow employers to gain valuable insights into a candidate's qualifications, work history, skills, and other relevant factors essential in making informed hiring decisions.

Abide by legal compliance

Job applications help employers ensure compliance with legal requirements. For example, they can be used to collect the necessary information for employment verification and equal opportunity considerations.

When to use a job application for employment

Employers should use a job application when:

  • Advertising job openings: Job applications are typically a required part of the application process when advertising job positions.
  • Seeking consistent information: A job application serves as a standardized tool if employers want to gather consistent information from all candidates.
A person uses a keypad to enter an office building.
Types of employment application forms

With online job applications, candidates complete an online form to submit applications electronically through the company's website or applicant tracking system.

Some applications for open positions can be printed and filled out manually. Others are customized by companies to a specific industry.

A person working on a laptop and tablet in a home office with a desk lamp

What is included in a job application?

A job application typically includes the following sections to gather essential candidate information.

Full name, phone number, email address, social media accounts such as LinkedIn information, mailing address, and social security number or other identification details.

A person works on a laptop sitting on a high stool.

Space to provide information about high school, academic qualifications, degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework.

A person walks through a library holding a book.

A section to capture the candidate's employment history, including job titles, job descriptions, companies, dates of employment, and key responsibilities.

A person works on a sculpture with a chisel.

A space for candidates to highlight their relevant skills, both technical and soft, that align with job requirements.

A group of people work together to paint a large mural.

A section where candidates provide contact information for individuals who can provide insights into their character, work ethic, and abilities.

A bird flies carrying an envelope in its talons.

Frequently asked questions

While it’s common practice to request a resume, a job application allows you to gather specific information in a consistent format. A resume provides additional details and context that complement the job application.

Including equal opportunity statements or other necessary disclaimers can help demonstrate your commitment to fair hiring practices.

We recommend you consult with legal professionals to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Develop an evaluation criteria checklist that aligns with the job requirements, and use it to assess each candidate's qualifications, skills, and experiences as presented in their job applications.

Consider conducting interviews or other assessment methods to further evaluate shortlisted candidates.

Employers must handle candidate information with utmost care and adhere to privacy regulations. Protect sensitive information, securely store applications, and use data per applicable privacy laws.

Explore more helpful forms and templates

Business plan

Set out a clear vision for your business’ success.

W-2 form

Fill out your employees’ work and wage details, pain free.

Release of liability

Safeguard your business from potential risk.

Non-disclosure agreement

Protect your business with a confidentiality agreement.