What is the first step when applying for a job?

The first step when applying for a job is to complete a job application. This document is typically provided by employers and serves as your formal request for employment. It allows you to present your personal information, work history, education, and skills in a structured format that employers can easily review.

Completing the job application is essential as it is often the first impression a potential employer gets of you. It lays the groundwork for how your qualifications will be assessed and is often required before any further steps, such as submitting a resume, can take place. The job application process may also provide details about the position you are applying for and any specific qualifications the employer is seeking.

In contrast, while a resume is an important tool in the job search process, it typically accompanies the job application and is not the first step. Background information, such as an employment preference or tax forms like the W-2, comes into play later in the hiring process or after being offered a job, not at the application stage.