How To Write An Application Letter
Tips for Writing a Job Application Letter
Writing this letter can look like a challenging task. But, if you take it one step at a time, you’ll soon be an expert at writing to send with your resume.
How to Get Started
Before you begin writing your job application letter, do some background check . Consider what information you want to include (keeping in mind that space is limited). Remember, this letter is making a case for your candidacy to be considered, highlight your most relevant skills, experiences, and abilities.
1.Analyze the Job Posting
To include the most convincing, relevant details in your letter, you’ll need to know what the employer needs.
The biggest clues are within the job advertisement, so spend some time analyzing the Ad.
2.Include Your Most Relevant Qualifications
Make a list of all your experiences and skills. If the job ad calls for a strong leader, think of examples of when you’ve successfully led a team in any situation. Once you’ve written down some notes, and have a sense of what you want to highlight in your letter, you are ready to write your application letter.
Writing Guidelines for Job Application Letters
- Length: A letter of application should be no more than one page long. Two to three paragraphs is okay.
- Format and Page Margins: It should be single-spaced with a space between each paragraph. Use about 1″ margins and align your text towards the left, which is the standard alignment for most documents.
- Font: Use traditional font like Times New Roman or Calibri. The font size should be between 10 and 12.
What To Include In Sections Of The Letter
a. Heading: A letter of application should begin with both yours and the employers contact information (name, address, phone number, email) followed by the date. If its an email rather than an actual letter you should include your contact information at the end of the letter, after your signature
b. Salutation: This is you politely greeting in the letter. The most common salutation is “Dear Mr./Ms.” followed by the person’s name if you know their name.
c. Body of the letter: This section is of three distinct parts.
In the first paragraph, you’ll mention the job you are applying for and where you saw the job listing.
The second paragraph is the most important part of your letter. The way you gathered all the information about what employers are seeking, and how you would meet their needs This is where you’ll share those relevant details on your experience and accomplishments.
The third and most important part will be you thanking your employer, you can also offer follow-up information.
d. Complimentary Close: Sign off your email with a polite close, such as “Best” or “Sincerely,” followed by your name.
e. Signature: When you’re sending or uploading a printed letter, end with your signature, handwritten, followed by your typed name. If this is an email, simply include your typed name, then your contact information.
Be sure that each letter you send is personalized to the company and position; do not send the same letter to different companies.
Tips for Writing an Effective Letter
- Always write one. Unless a job posting specifically says not to send a letter of application or cover letter, you should always send one. Even if the company does not request a letter of application, always try to write one. If they do ask you to send a letter, make sure to follow the directions exactly (for example, they might ask you to send the letter as an email attachment, or type it directly into their online application system).
- Use business letter format. Use a formal business letter format when writing your letter. Include your contact information at the top, the date, and the employer’s contact information. Be sure to provide a salutation at the beginning, and your signature at the end.
- Sell yourself. Throughout the letter, focus on how you would benefit the company. Provide specific examples of times you demonstrated skills or abilities that would be useful for that job, especially those listed in the job posting.
- Use keywords. Reread the job listing. Try to include some of those words in your cover letter. This will help the employer see that you are strong fit for the job.
- Keep it brief. Keep your letter under a page. Employers are more likely to read a concise letter.
- Proofread and edit. Employers are likely to overlook an application with a lot of errors. Read through your letter, and if possible, ask a friend to review the letter for any errors.
Sample of an Application Letter
