Attaching application materials with a staple was once a common practice. This involved using a metal fastener to bind multiple sheets of paper, ensuring they remained together for easy handling and review. For instance, a cover letter, resume, and reference list would be affixed in the upper left-hand corner.
This method ensured documents remained organized, preventing pages from becoming separated or lost, particularly during transit or when multiple applications were being processed. While seemingly a minor detail, maintaining order was considered a reflection of professionalism and attention to detail. However, contemporary hiring practices often favor digital submissions, and when physical copies are requested, the preference has shifted toward using paperclips or simply leaving the documents unbound. This change stems from the potential for staples to damage papers, especially when removed, and the increasing use of scanning technology in applicant tracking systems.
