In today’s fast-paced job market, efficiency is key. You might have crafted a stellar handwritten job application, but what’s the quickest way to digitize it for online submissions or record-keeping? Just like we previously discussed creating handwritten applications, knowing how to scan documents using your phone is an invaluable skill.
This guide will walk you through the simple steps of how to scan a job application with your phone, turning your physical documents into digital files in moments. Whether you need to email your resume, upload it to a job portal, or simply keep a digital backup, mobile scanning is the answer.
Scanning Documents with Your Phone: Two Easy Methods
Scanning transforms physical documents into digital data, essentially creating a photograph but optimized for text and documents. This allows you to store, share, and manage your application materials electronically. Beyond job applications, mobile scanning is incredibly versatile, useful for everything from digitizing receipts to preserving important documents.
Let’s explore two primary methods: using a dedicated scanning app and leveraging built-in features on your smartphone.
Method 1: Scanning Your Job Application Using a Mobile App
For enhanced control and features, using a dedicated scanning app is often the preferred method. These apps are designed specifically for document scanning and offer features like automatic edge detection, image enhancement, and file format conversion. While numerous document scanner apps are available, we’ll use CamScanner as a prime example due to its popularity and robust features.
Step 1: Download and Install a Scanner App (e.g., CamScanner)
While CamScanner is used in this example, many other excellent document scanner apps are available for both Android and iOS.
If you don’t already have CamScanner installed, you can easily download it from your phone’s app store (Google Play Store for Android or Apple App Store for iOS). Simply search for “CamScanner” and install the app.
CamScanner -Phone PDF Creator on Google Play Store
CamScanner -Phone PDF Creator on Apple App Store
Step 2: Initiate Scanning in the App
Once CamScanner is installed and opened, look for a prominent button, usually labeled “Start Scanning” or a camera icon. Tap this button to begin the scanning process. Many apps, including CamScanner, are not just for job applications; they are also perfect if you’re wondering how to scan report cards to PDF or any other document.
Step 3: Prepare Your Job Application Document
Ensure your job application is placed on a flat, well-lit surface. Within CamScanner, and similar apps, select the “Docs” mode. This mode is specifically optimized for document scanning and will enhance text clarity. Now, position your phone camera directly above your job application, framing the entire document within the viewfinder. This step is crucial whether you are scanning a job application or figuring out how to scan a diploma with your phone.
Step 4: Scan the Document Within the App’s Guidelines
Most scanner apps, like CamScanner, provide guidelines on the screen to help you align your document correctly. Adjust your phone’s position until the application fits neatly within these guidelines. The app will automatically detect the edges of the document. Once aligned, tap the capture button (usually a camera icon) to take the scan.
Step 5: Apply Filters for Enhanced Clarity (Optional)
After capturing the scan, CamScanner and other apps offer various filters to enhance the document’s readability. Options like “Magic Color,” “Grayscale,” or “B&W” can sharpen text and improve contrast, making your scanned job application look professional and clear. Experiment with the filters to find the one that best suits your document.
Step 6: Choose Your Desired File Format
Scanner apps typically allow you to save your scanned document in various formats, with PDF and JPG being the most common. For job applications, PDF is generally recommended as it preserves formatting and is universally readable. If you specifically need to scan documents to PDF on your phone, ensure you select PDF as your output format.
Step 7: Save and You’re Done!
Once you’ve selected your format, tap the “Save” or “Done” button. Your scanned job application is now saved on your phone, ready to be shared or uploaded as needed. Congratulations, you’ve successfully digitized your document!
Method 2: Scanning Your Job Application Without an App (Built-in Scanner Feature)
If you prefer to avoid installing extra apps or if your phone has a built-in document scanning feature, this method is for you. Many modern smartphones now come equipped with native scanning capabilities, often integrated within the camera app or file management system.
Step 1: Locate the Built-in Scanner App or Feature
The location of the built-in scanner varies depending on your phone’s brand and operating system. Some phones have a dedicated “Scanner” app, while others integrate the feature into the camera app’s “More” or “Modes” section, or within the file manager under options like “Scan Document.” Explore your phone’s app drawer or settings to locate the built-in scanner.
Step 2: Select “Document” Scanning Mode
Similar to scanner apps, built-in scanners often offer different modes. Select the “Document” or “Docs” mode. This mode will optimize the scanning process for text documents and provide on-screen guidelines to assist you. Using the “Document” mode ensures your scanned job application is clear and legible.
Step 3: Align Document with On-Screen Guidelines
Position your job application on a flat surface and hold your phone directly above it. Use the on-screen guidelines provided by the built-in scanner to align the document within the frame. Ensure the entire application is visible and within the guidelines for optimal scanning.
Step 4: Save Your Scanned Job Application
Once the scan is captured, your built-in scanner will usually offer basic editing options like cropping and rotation. After making any necessary adjustments, tap the “Save” button. Built-in scanners often default to saving in JPG format (image format).
If you need a PDF version, you might need to use a separate JPG to PDF converter app or online tool after saving the scan as a JPG. There are many free and easy-to-use converters available online if you search for “how to change JPG to PDF“.
Step 5: Access Your Digitized Application
Your scanned job application, typically in JPG format when using a built-in scanner, is now saved on your phone. You can usually find it in your phone’s Gallery app or within the file manager, often in a “Scanned Documents” or similar folder. You now have a digital copy readily accessible on your phone.
Bonus: Beyond Document Scanning – Barcode Scanning with Your Phone
While this guide focuses on scanning job applications, your phone’s scanning capabilities extend beyond documents. You can also easily scan barcodes with your phone, which is increasingly useful for various purposes, from accessing information to verifying products.
Many phones have built-in barcode scanning features within their camera apps, or you can download dedicated barcode scanner apps. The process is generally straightforward: open the scanner, point your camera at the barcode, and the scanner will automatically decode the information.
[Link to article about barcode scanning on Android and iPhone if available]
Final Thoughts
Mastering how to scan with your phone is a valuable asset in today’s digital world, especially when job searching. Whether you choose a dedicated app for advanced features or utilize your phone’s built-in scanner for quick digitization, you can easily convert your physical job applications and other documents into digital formats.
Embrace the convenience of mobile scanning to streamline your job application process and keep your important documents organized and accessible wherever you go. Share this guide with fellow job seekers and tech-savvy friends to help them unlock the power of mobile scanning!
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