How to fill out a job application with just a high school diploma?

I'm about to apply for my first real job and only have a high school diploma. Any tips on filling out the application to make it more appealing?

Firstly, don't downplay the significance of having a high school diploma. It's a valuable achievement and an essential level of education that equips you with foundational skills and knowledge. But you're right; embellishing your application can definitely improve your chances. Here's some tips:

1. Highlight Relevant Coursework: Draw attention to any high school classes that might be relevant to the job. Courses like computer science, economy, or other vocational classes indicate you have substantial knowledge about those subjects.

2. Include Extracurricular Activities: All the clubs, sports teams, or volunteer work you were involved in high school count for a lot. They prove that you were active and engaged, can work as part of a team, and have leadership skills.

3. Discuss your soft skills: Regardless of which job you're applying for, transferable or soft skills such as communication, organization, time management, problem solving, and teamwork are highly sought after by employers. Use your high school experiences to demonstrate these skills.

4. Provide any work experience: If you have any work experience – even summer or part-time jobs – definitely include that on your application. Even if it's loosely connected to the job you're applying for, it shows you know how to handle responsibility and have a basic understanding of work decorum.

5. Mention Certifications or Workshops: If you've participated in any career development workshops, or earned any certifications relevant to the job during your high school, be sure to include them.

Remember, your application is about demonstrating your potential. Be confident, positive, and sincere in your approach. The aim is to show that, even as a recent high school graduate, you have the energy, capability, and commitment to succeed in the job.