132 Principles of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Job Applications Job applications are formal requests for employment, and are generally filled out at the initial contact or directly prior to the interview, Figure 3-31. The application typically requires contact information and general questions about work history and skills. To make sure that you are impressing potential employers, your application should be complete, consistent with your résumé, and show that you have good written communication skills (including punctuation and spelling). Some of the information you will need to have on hand when filling out an application includes: „ Your social security number (SSN). „ Your personal contact information. „ Emergency contact information. „ Names, addresses, and phone numbers of current and past employers. „ Names, titles, and contact information for people who have agreed to act as personal or professional references. „ Names, addresses, and dates of attendance for schools you have attended or are attending. With the exception of your social security number, write the information in a small notebook or fill out a “practice” application and keep it on hand. It is recommended you memorize your social security number and disclose it only when absolutely necessary. AndreyPopov/iStock/Thinkstock Figure 3-31. Completing job applications truthfully and legibly is an important step in obtaining a job. What other tips should you follow when completing an application?