Application: signature - what to bear in mind

While it was normal in the days of paper applications to sign them, this is not clearly specified for online applications. Find out here whether it is necessary to sign application documents, such as cover letters and resumes.

Is a signature still necessary for job applications?

Since many companies now prefer online applications, for example by e-mail or application portal, the question arises whether a signature is still necessary at all for this form of application. Most personnel managers now see a signature under the cover letter and resume only as a formality that can be dispensed with. If you do not include a signature under your application, this is not a criterion for exclusion. However, scanning the signature can be a sign for some personnel managers that an applicant has made a great effort and absolutely wants the job.

Application: How to scan your signature correctly

If you do not want to do without a signature in your application, you have two options for inserting it. Enter your name either by keyboard and use an italic font or scan a handwritten signature.

1. To scan your signature, you need a white sheet of paper, a fountain pen with dark blue ink and a scanner.
2. If you have the necessary materials, please take the sheet of paper and sign on it with your first and last name.
3. Be sure to make sure that your signature is legible and not smeared.
4. Then scan and crop the signature before inserting the file with the signature under "Insert" > "Image" in the cover letter and resume.