The complete application, including “Tell Us About You” is forwarded to potential employers. It is important to understand that this application is a direct representation of you and your abilities.   Use blue or black ink to complete this application.   Avoid using email addresses that are suggestive or cute. An inappropriate or too personal screen name may damage your credibility and negatively affect your chances to get interviews. If your email address could be viewed as questionable, it may be a good idea to create a separate screen name or account for use only in your job search.   Make sure your penmanship is neat and legible. Do not mark out! If you make a mistake, use correction fluid. Neatness, or lack of neatness, contributes significantly to an interviewer’s first impression. The reality is if you don’t make a positive first impression, you probably won’t get another opportunity.   Check your spelling and grammar. Mistakes are always noticed and usually result in your information being tossed aside.   The “Reason For Leaving” section is sometimes tricky and special care should always be taken when forming your answers. The important thing to remember is to always be honest. At the same time try to keep negative comments about former supervisors, co-workers, or other work-related issues to a minimum. Potential employers look for loyalty and discretion. No matter how justified your feelings about a former employer or position may be, it’s always better to emphasize your more positive reasons for seeking new employment. So, instead of saying - “My job was so boring!” say something like “I want more opportunities for growth.”   If your departure was influenced by personal circumstances, don’t share too much information with interviewers. It’s unprofessional and unnecessary. Long and laborious tales can usually be summed up in one or two sentences. For instance, if your last daycare provider was unreliable and you were ultimately forced to quit work, don’t launch into a convoluted saga. Simply say, “I left my last position because of problems with daycare arrangements. The issues have been resolved and I’m very excited about shifting my focus back to my career.”  The interviewer will ask specific questions to determine what he or she needs to know about the situation.   Be realistic in evaluating your skills and experience. A new graduate with a paralegal certificate will find employment much faster if he or she is willing to take an entry-level position just to gain law office experience. Of course, there are some law firms out there who are willing to hire paralegals straight out of school with no experience. But, that’s the exception and not the rule. The hard reality is that most paralegals begin their careers as legal secretaries.   Don’t price yourself out of the market. Be realistic in your salary requirements. It is always best to put “Negotiable” when asked about salary requirements. If an employer thinks your salary requirements are too high, your information will likely go immediately to the “No” pile regardless of how experienced or qualified you may be. Getting your foot in the door is the key. You can make a face-to-face connection and give potential employers a first-hand look at what a skilled professional you are. You can tell them why you are the right person for this job.     Now let's read about resume tips, click here.