5 Practical Advices on How to Write a Letter of Application for Job
A job application letter is also called as a cover letter, and should always be attached to a resume when applying for a job.
The primary function of a request letter is to explain indirectly to the employer why you are the perfect candidate and why you should be shortlisted for an interview.
Use the cover letter to explain all the relevant information from your curriculum vitae (resume).
Here is an in-depth information on how to write a perfect cover letter.
Length – A letter of application should not exceed one page.
Format – A cover letter should be single spaced with an area after every paragraph. Use 1-inch margins and align your words to the left- this is the standard alignment for most letters.
Font – Use the traditional fonts such as Arial, Times New Roman or Calibri. The font size should lie between 10 and 12 points.
Header – You should start your letter with both yours and the employer’s contact information ( i.e you should include the name, address, contacts, and email). The date follows this.
If your letter is an email instead, include your contact information at the end of your texts, a space after your signature.
1. Salutation
Start you letter with “Dear Mr. /Ms. Last Name” if you don’t know the employer’s name, only write “to whom it may concern” or “Dear Hiring Manager”.
2. Introduction
Start by stating the job position that you are applying for. Give details about where you first heard about the job vacancy, individually if you heard about the job from someone associated with the firm.
Be brief when mentioning your expertise and experience. Explain how your skills match the position or the company. This information will give the employer a sneak peak of the rest of your cover letter.
3. Body
In one paragraph or two, give supporting details as to why you took an interest in the job and why you are qualified for the job position.
Mention particular qualifications that are listed in the job entry, now explain why your skills meet those criteria.
Don’t restate your resume whatsoever! Provide specific instances that show your ability. You can either stipulate these particular examples in a bulleted format or complete sentences.
4. Closing
Mention again how your skills make you the best player in that game (job position). Mention that you are willing to accept an interview or discuss any other employment opportunity.
Explain the steps you will approach to follow up and the date or time you will do it.
Thank the employer for the consideration.
5. Signature
End your cover letter with a signature- make sure that it is handwritten, followed by your name (TYPED). If it is an email, start with a typed name, followed by your contact details.
Summary
It may sound uncouth or rather silly, but make sure that you include the correct company and employer names; It is easy to make grammatical and other mistakes when writing letters to many recipients at once.
Lastly, proofread and edit your application letter before you send it.