Supporting Documents for a Job Application

Supporting Documents for a Job ApplicationSupporting Documents for a Job ApplicationWhen youre applying for a job, an employer may want mora information than just a copy of your resume and cover letter. The company may request what is known as supporting documentation to complete your application. Knowing what to include and how to include it will help you stay in the running for the role. What Are Supporting Documents? Supporting documentation for a job application can include a resume, a cover letter, educational transcripts, writing samples, Veterans Preference documents, portfolios, certifications, a reference list, letters of recommendation, and other documentation as specified in the job posting. The information that is required varies depending on the job and the employers hiring requirements. Generally, employers will specify which documents they want to see included with your application. If not, feel free to ask the hiring manager or HR representative what kind of suppo rting documentation to send. Be sure to follow all their instructions about what to send and how to send it. (For example, official transcripts must usually be sent directly from the school or institution.) Why Do Employers Request Supporting Documentation? Getting supporting documentation from candidates helps companies evaluate applications. For many employers, a resume (or a resume and cover letter) provides all the information necessary. Other employers need more information to determine which applicants they will interview and eventually hire. The reason for requesting information is to get a full picture of you as a candidate, or to provide confirmation of the details listed on your resume or job application. For instance, requiring a transcript as supporting documentation allows employers to confirm that you graduated, as well as your GPA. Requesting documentation can also be a test of whether or not applicants can follow instructions. If a job posting mentions that candi dates must submit a list of references with their application, hiring managers can sort all applicants who did not submit references into the no pile. List of Supporting Documents The following is a list of supporting documents that may be required to be submitted with an employment application. ResumeCover LetterReference ListLetters of RecommendationTranscriptPortfolioWriting Sample (essay, articles, or other writing samples)Employment CertificateCertifications (teaching or computer certifications, for example) How to Submit Supporting Documentation For employers, gathering up all this information at one time, whether its during the application process or after an initial interview, is a huge convenience. It allows the hiring manager to have all the pertinent information about candidates on hand, and cuts back on follow-up emails and phone calls to request more documents. Applicants may find collecting and submitting documents to be less of a convenience, and more of a has sle. Some documents may require a bit of digging to locate. For example, where is your Project Management Professional Certification, and who can you call to get a copy if you cant find your own? Other documentation may require a bit of work to assemble. For instance, if youre submitting a list of references, youll need to ask permission to use them as a reference, and inform them that someone from the company may be in touch shortly. You should also brief them on the job description and remind them about your relevant skills and qualifications for the role, so that they can make a solid case for you. Label Your Documents With Your Name Carefully label and personenname all files, including your name and details on what is in the document. Your references, for example, could be named Sarah-Wong - References or Sarah Wong References. Avoid just naming them references since hiring managers tend to have a lot of files, and wont be able to easily identify your documentation. Follow a consistent naming pattern across all documents. This will make it easier for recruiters and hiring managers and give a more professional first impression. Follow the Directions in the Job Posting Once you have all the supporting documentation gathered up, follow the employers instructions as to how to submit it. Employers may ask for you to upload files or attach them in an email. If employers request specific file formats (PDFs, for instance), make sure to follow those instructions. Submit all your documents at once, with your resume or application. If youre missing something, try to get a copy prior to submitting your application. Save yourself a step and have copies of everything you might need to job search on your computer, ready to compile and send. Bringing Documentation to a Job Interview If the company requests that supporting documentation be brought to the interview, bring a photocopy of each of the requested documents with you to leave with the hiring manager. A lso be sure that you have everything else you need to bring with you ready to go. The employer may request originals of some documents, like transcripts. If thats the case, request them ahead of time from the institution where you received them. To request a copy of a transcript from an educational institution, send a written request to the registrar or guidance office, and ask to have your transcript sent directly to the employer. Some schools may allow you to request a transcript electronically, while others may require a formal letter. Schools generally charge a nominal fee for transcripts, often in the $5 to $30 range. For information on fees and other requirements, consult your schools website or call the office directly to inquire.