Checklist Before You Submit Your Application (Don’t Miss #3)

So, you’ve found a job you really like. Your resume is ready, your cover letter is done, and your fingers are itching to click that submit button.

But wait — are you 100% sure everything’s in place?

Before you send anything, go through this easy checklist before you submit your application. It’s simple, quick, and can help you avoid little mistakes that might cost you the chance to get noticed.

Let’s dive into this friendly job application checklist together — and don’t miss #3. Most people do!

1. Read the Job Post Again

Yes, again! Reading the job post carefully helps you understand what the company really wants.

✅ Checklist:

• Do you meet the important requirements?
• Did you use some of the same words in your resume that are in the job post?
• Are there any special instructions (like “email your resume as a PDF” or “include your expected salary”)?

💡Tip: Matching the job post helps your application get past the company’s resume filters (they’re called ATS or Applicant Tracking Systems, but don’t worry — just follow the post closely!).

2. Make Sure Your Resume Matches the Job

Don’t send the same resume to every job. Make a few changes so it fits this one.

✅ Checklist:

• Does your resume show the skills and experience the company is looking for?
• Did you write what you achieved in your past jobs (like “helped increase sales by 25%”)?
• Is your resume file named clearly? Try something like YourName_JobTitle.pdf.

💡Tip: Keep your resume short and clear — just one or two pages is usually enough.

To learn how to create a resume, visit our helpful guide: How to Create a Resume That Works.

3. Check Spelling, Grammar, and Looks

This one is super important. A small typo can ruin your chances, even if you’re perfect for the job!

✅ Checklist:

• Are there any spelling or grammar mistakes?
• Do all the fonts, bullet points, and spacing look the same?
• Did you double-check your dates and job titles?

💡Tip: Use free tools like Grammarly or ask a friend to take a quick look. A fresh pair of eyes really helps.

4. Write a Cover Letter (Even if They Don’t Ask)

If it’s optional, send it anyway! It shows you really want the job and gives you a chance to speak directly to the employer.

✅ Checklist:

• Did you say why you’re excited to work there?
• Did you explain how your skills can help the company?
• Did you keep it short and friendly (no need to sound too serious)?

💡Tip: Start with something personal like, “I’m excited to apply for the role because I’ve always admired your company’s work…”

5. Make Sure Your Contact Info Is Correct

It sounds simple, but people often mess this up. If your contact info is wrong, they can’t reach you!

✅ Checklist:

• Is your phone number correct?
• Is your email address spelled right?
• Do your LinkedIn or portfolio links work?

6. Follow All the Instructions

Some companies ask for certain things, like saving your resume a certain way or writing something specific in the subject line.

✅ Checklist:

• Are your files in the right format (PDF is safest)?
• Did you include everything they asked for?
• Did you follow any special steps mentioned in the post?

💡Tip: Not following directions can get your application skipped — even if everything else is great.

7. Clean Up Your Social Media

These days, many employers check your social media. Make sure they like what they see.

✅ Checklist:

• Is your LinkedIn profile updated?
• Do your public posts (on Facebook, Instagram, etc.) look okay?
• Do you want to make any profiles private?

8. Plan to Follow Up

After sending your application, don’t just wait and wonder. Plan to send a short follow-up message.

✅ Checklist:

• Did you set a reminder to check in after 1 week?
• Do you know who to contact, or can you find an email for HR or the hiring manager?

💡Tip: A quick message like, “Just checking in to see if there’s an update on my application — I’m really excited about this role,” works great.

9. Ask Yourself: Is This Job Right for Me?

Before you send anything, take one last moment to think. Does this job really fit you?

✅ Checklist:

• Are you excited about the work?
• Do the company’s values feel right to you?
• Will this role help you grow?

💡Tip: The right job isn’t just about getting hired — it’s about being happy once you’re there.

Why This Checklist Matters

Think of this checklist as your safety net. It helps catch small mistakes, like a typo or forgetting an attachment, that could hurt your chances. Even though these things might seem minor, they can make a big difference to employers.

Hiring managers pay attention to the details. Taking time to check everything shows you care, and that can be the reason you get called for an interview instead of being ignored.

Final Thoughts

Once you go through this full job application checklist, you’ll feel confident knowing everything looks good.

This checklist before you submit your application can help you stand out — and might just be the reason you land that interview!

Quick Recap:

Step	What to Do
✅ 1	Read the job post again
✅ 2	Match your resume to the job
✅ 3	Check spelling, grammar, and formatting
✅ 4	Write a short, friendly cover letter
✅ 5	Make sure your contact info is correct
✅ 6	Follow the instructions carefully
✅ 7	Clean up your social media
✅ 8	Plan to follow up
✅ 9	Ask yourself if this job is a good fit

References

1. Ivana. (2022, August 9). Use Our All-You-Need Job Application Checklist to Get That Job! StudySmarter UK. https://www.studysmarter.co.uk/magazine/job-application-checklist/
2. What Are Job Checklists? (Including What To Include and an Example). (2025). Indeed Career Guide. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/job-checklists