application letter 2017

How to Write an Application Letter (Sample Included!)

Whether you’re applying for a job , internship , scholarship, or volunteer position, a well-crafted application letter can help you stand out. It's your chance to introduce yourself and make a strong first impression that sets you apart from the competition.

But how do you write an application letter that’s effective? Below, we’ll explain when to use this method of introduction and give you practical tips on writing one that gets results. Plus, we've included a sample application letter and a template to help you create the perfect document for any opportunity.

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What is an application letter?

An application letter is a document sent with your resume to provide additional information on your skills and experience. It's a crucial part of an application for work as it introduces you to potential employers and highlights your qualifications.

While some companies request it at the beginning of the application process, others might ask for it later, or not at all—but it's always a valuable addition.

Unlike a resume, which outlines your work history, a written application allows you to elaborate on your achievements and how they relate to the job you are applying for. It is a much more specific way to introduce yourself and explain why you would be a good fit for the job.

How is an application letter different from a cover letter?

Some people use the terms “application letter” and “cover letter” interchangeably, but there are subtle differences between the two.

An application letter serves as your formal introduction to a potential employer. It highlights your interest in the role, your qualifications, and why you're a good fit for the position. It's a standalone document that provides a comprehensive overview of your skills and experiences.

On the other hand, a cover letter is usually more concise than an application letter and serves as a complementary document to your resume, providing additional context to your job application. It elaborates on specific points from your resume and explains how your background aligns with the job requirements.

Also, job application letters follow a more formal structure, often resembling a traditional business letter. They include your contact information, the date, and the employer’s contact information at the top. An application letter is usually addressed to a specific individual, such as the hiring manager or recruiter. While cover letters also have a professional tone, they can be less formal in structure.

Finally, the application letter is used primarily for job applications, internship applications, scholarship applications, and volunteer positions. In contrast, the cover letter is specifically used to accompany a resume during job applications.

When do you need to send an application letter?

Application letters are typically required when applying for jobs. However, there are other scenarios where you might need one:

• Scholarship applications: When applying for scholarships, this kind of letter can help you stand out by showcasing your academic achievements and career goals .
• Volunteer positions: Some volunteer organizations require an application letter to understand your motivations and skills relevant to the position.
• Internship applications: Internships often require this document to understand your interest in the role and what you hope to gain from the experience.
• Networking purposes: Sending one when reaching out to potential mentors or industry professionals can help you establish a connection and explain your career aspirations.

7 tips on how to write a job application letter

Writing an effective application letter involves more than just summarizing your resume. Here are seven tips to write yours:

1. Research the company—at least do a quick Google search!

Before you start writing, research the company to understand its culture, values, and needs. Tailor your letter to align with the company’s mission and the job description. There is nothing better for an HR professional than feeling that you don’t just want any job; you want to work with them for specific reasons, such as X and Y.

“Address the letter to the hiring manager by name if possible,” says Mike Chappell, CEO of FormsPal , who has more than a decade of experience reviewing application letters. “This shows that you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in the company.”

2. Use a professional format and design

Your application letter should follow a formal letter of application format. Use a standard font like Times New Roman or Arial, and keep the font size between 10 and 12 points. Include your contact information, the date, and the employer’s contact information at the top of the letter.

There are many layouts online that you can use. Find one that represents your style and complements your resume.

3. Make it engaging from the start with a strong opening

Your opening paragraph should grab the reader’s attention. Mention the position you're applying for and where you found the job listing. If you were referred by someone, include their name. Briefly introduce yourself and explain why you’re interested in the role.

4. Highlight your qualifications—what you can’t fully convey in your resume

In the body of your applicant letter, highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements. “Use specific examples to showcase your accomplishments and how they relate to the job you’re applying for,” Chappell says. “ Quantifiable results can make a strong impact.”

Avoid repeating information from your resume; instead, expand on your most relevant experiences.

5. Show enthusiasm and genuine interest

Employers want to hire candidates who are enthusiastic about the role and the company. Show your excitement for the opportunity. Explain why you are specifically interested in this job and how it aligns with your career goals.

6. Keep it concise

While it’s important to provide enough detail, your application letter should be concise. Aim for one page, with three to four paragraphs. Be clear and to the point, avoiding unnecessary fluff.

7. Proofread carefully

Typos and grammatical errors can leave a negative impression on employers. Carefully proofread your letter before sending it. Consider asking another person to review it as well.

Letter of application sample

Here's a super complete example of application letter to help you get started:

August 1, 2024

Ms. Jane Doe

Hiring Manager

Innovative Solutions Inc.

456 Maple Avenue

Springfield, IL 62705

Dear Ms. Doe,

I am writing to express my interest in the Marketing Manager position at Innovative Solutions Inc., as advertised on your company’s careers page. With more than five years of experience in marketing and a proven track record of successful campaigns, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and drive impactful marketing strategies.

In my previous role as a Senior Marketing Specialist at Creative Solutions LLC, I led a team in developing and executing a comprehensive marketing strategy that resulted in a 30% increase in brand awareness and a 25% boost in lead generation. My responsibilities included overseeing digital marketing campaigns, analyzing market trends, and coordinating with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment with overall business goals. This experience has honed my skills in strategic planning, data analysis, and team leadership.

I am particularly impressed by Innovative Solutions Inc.’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to deliver innovative marketing solutions. Your recent campaign, which utilized artificial intelligence to optimize ad targeting, is a testament to your forward-thinking approach. I am eager to bring my expertise in digital marketing and campaign management to your team and contribute to similar groundbreaking projects.

My strong analytical skills, combined with my ability to lead and inspire a team, make me a great fit for this role. I am confident that my background and enthusiasm for innovative marketing strategies align well with the needs of Innovative Solutions Inc.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experiences can contribute to the continued success of Innovative Solutions Inc.

123 Elm Street

Springfield, IL 62704

[email protected]

(555) 123-4567

Template for an application letter

You can also use the following application format to structure your application letter for a job:

[Recipient’s name]

[Company’s name]

[Company’s address]

[City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear [Recipient’s name],

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job title] position at [Company name] as advertised on [Where you found the job listing]. With my background in [Field or industry] and a passion for [Specific aspect of the job or industry], I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team.

In my previous role at [Previous company], I developed [Specific skills or achievements]. I successfully [Describe a project or responsibility], which resulted in [Quantifiable result or achievement]. This experience has equipped me with [Relevant skills] that I am eager to bring to [Company name].

I am particularly impressed by [Company name]’s commitment to [Specific company initiative or value], and I am enthusiastic about the prospect of working with a team that values [Related value or skill]. I am confident that my skills and experiences align well with the requirements of the [Job title] position.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and enthusiasm can contribute to the success of [Company Name].

[Your Name]

[Your address]

[Your email address]

[Your phone number]

Common mistakes to avoid

When writing a letter of application for employment, be aware of these common mistakes:

• Being too generic: Focus your letter on the specific job and company, and mention detailed information about them. Don’t default to a one-size-fits-all approach or AI-written document. “It is generally best to avoid using generative AI to write your application letters for you,” says Edward Tian, CEO of AI detector GPTZero . “Only you can write about those specific aspects of your identity and experiences in such a personal way.”
• Focusing too much on yourself: While it’s important to highlight your qualifications, make sure to explain how you can benefit the company. “You can talk about your career goals, college classes that piqued your interest in the type of job you're applying to—just make sure that they tie into why they make you uniquely qualified or well-positioned for the job,” Tian says.
• Including irrelevant information: Avoid discussing unrelated jobs or hobbies, for example.
• Using a casual tone: Maintain a professional tone throughout your letter. Avoid slang or overly casual language.

Need a bit more guidance in your job search? Read this next: How to Apply for a Job Online: 10 Tips to Stand Out and Land an Interview

• Mar 26, 2024
• 11 min read

How to Write a Job Application Letter (Tips and Examples)

Your guide to getting your foot in the door.

Joanna Zambas

Content Manager and Career Expert

Reviewed by Chris Leitch

Do you have your heart set on a specific company but have never seen them post a single vacancy? And are you on the verge of giving up completely, and convinced you’re going to be jobless and broke for the rest of your life?

Well, don’t crumple your  perfectly written résumé  in a ball of paper just yet — there’s still hope for you!

All you need to do is write an awesome job application letter.

Application letters are a great way to get your foot in the door of a company that hasn’t advertised a position or when you’re applying for an academic program or an  internship .

So, what are you waiting for?

Read on to find out how to write a great job application letter (and land that  dream job  of yours in the process)!

What is a job application letter/email?

Whereas cover letters are used when applying for a specific vacancy, and include details which are complementary to what’s on the applicant’s résumé, application letters are submitted when there is no job opening, and they tend to be more detailed.

Unlike cover letters, which usually span about one page, application letters can be twice as long.

How should you structure your letter?

The structure and formatting of your application letter is just as important as the words you use to sell your skills and enthusiasm for the job. The pointers below will help you deliver your message in a professional and effective way.

Sender’s address

Begin your letter with your address listed in the left-hand corner of the page. In the US, it’s acceptable to list your address in the right-hand corner. (Skip this step if you’re going to send your application via email.)

If you’re applying via email, create an email address for professional use if you haven’t already. This should include your first and last names or initials — no nicknames or years of birth! Two appropriate examples are [email protected] and [email protected] .

As with any official letter, include the date of your letter below your address.

Subject line

The  subject of your email  should make the manager want to read more and not automatically press the “Delete” button. It could be something like: “Social Media Expert with over 5 Years of Experience”.

Inside address

The company’s address should appear a few lines below your address and the date. Skip this if you’re sending an email.

As with any formal letter, you need to open with the correct formal salutation (such as “Dear Mr [surname]” or “Dear Ms [surname]”).

It’s also best to find out who the head of the department is, and address your letter directly to them to show that you’ve taken the time to really do your research. If you begin with “Dear Hiring Manager”, for example, you’re potentially destroying your chances of getting the job you’re applying for.

Opening paragraph

The opening paragraph should provide details on why you’re getting in touch.

Think about what you want to achieve with this letter before forming your answer. For example, you could say that it’s been a dream of yours to work for the company and that you feel that, given the chance, you’d love to bring new skills and ideas to the table. You can also highlight any qualifications you have here.

Middle paragraph(s)

This is where you will explain why you’re suitable for the position by listing skills you’ve developed through previous work experience . Remember that this shouldn’t be a word-for-word copy of your résumé; rather, you should use this as an opportunity to expand on notable achievements.

And make sure you tailor the content of your letter to the particular job title and company you’re applying to — you don’t want to ramble on about irrelevant details.

Final paragraph

Finally, focus on what you bring to the table and how the company can benefit from your skills and experience. If you have statistics and figures to back up your claims, even better!

For example, if you’re an experienced project manager, you could say how you want to showcase your leadership skills and help the company reach its desired turnover, and then back this up with statistics on how you did just that in previous positions.

You should close your letter with a call-to-action. For example, you could say something like: “I look forward to hearing back from you to discuss any possibilities”. And don’t forget to thank the reader for their time!

Your name and signature

If you’re sending this by snail mail, opt for a handwritten signature. If, on the other hand, you’re sending an email, simply write your name, followed by your contact information.

Most application letter templates (and formal letter templates in general) use the Times New Roman typeface at 12 points. Other recommended fonts include Arial, Georgia and Calibri.

Tips for writing your letter

When it’s time to write an application letter, bear the following points in mind to ensure that your document captures the hiring manager’s attention and successfully creates the impression that you’d make a good fit for their company.

1. Include bullet points

Bullet points can be used as an effective formatting tool when writing your application letter. They can demonstrate points clearly and concisely, as well as help with the overall layout, allowing for bite-sized, readable chunks of information.

2. Make sure the language you use is easy to read

You might be a literary wizard , but those long words won’t impress the hiring manager if they make your letter difficult to read.

3. Use positive language

Positivity is the way forward when it comes to selling your skills to a potential employer. Therefore, you should use positive words when explaining your previous work experience.

These words include “assisted”, “conducted”, “executed”, “proposed” and “recommended”, which (when used right) can demonstrate your contribution and dedication to your role and organization.

4. Be creative

Depending on the industry that you’re interested in, you can be a bit creative with your approach . This means that you don’t have to follow the conventional structure of a cover letter, and can instead adopt a more story-like approach.

Should you add any attachments?

Since application letters are not submitted in response to particular job ads, but rather serve as an inquiry into any unadvertised openings which may be available, they tend to be standalone documents. That is to say they are not typically accompanied by other files.

Whereas cover letters are concise, tailored to the job posting and accompanied by résumés, your letter of application will be a more extensive account of your skills and experiences.

That being said, if you’re applying for a creative position such as that of a video editor or blog writer, it makes sense to include a few samples of your work that best represent your talent and ability.

Job application letter samples

The following application letter samples can give you an idea as to what to include in your letter, as well as how to structure it effectively.

1. Job application email sample

Dear Mr Cannon,

I have long been following your company’s growth and progress, being extremely passionate about clean, renewable energy. I remember coming across XYZ Renewables back in the early 2000s, when it was still in its early startup stages, and I admire how your leadership has grown the company since.

Having gained extensive experience as a solar consultant over the last decade, I have kept an eye out for any job opportunities with XYZ Renewables. This is why I am writing to you today: to express a keen interest in working with you in the future, should any solar consultation vacancies become available at your company.

In my current role at ABC Energies, I train new hires in advising and liaising with clients, as well as in designing and installing solar systems that cater to the needs and budget of our clients. I carry out the same duties myself, and have been commended for my customer service skills and technical know-how in solar systems installations. Over the last year, I have overseen and facilitated transactions totaling upwards of $1 million.

I appreciate you taking the time to read through my application. I hope that my skills and work experience can contribute to a fruitful collaboration down the line.

Yours sincerely,

Mark Rowling

2. Internship application email sample

Dear Ms Kipling,

Ever since I was a sophomore in high school, I’ve dreamed about pursuing an undergraduate degree in interior design and going on to work for an award-winning architectural firm. During my studies at AB College, where I graduated from just over a month ago, I became exposed to the works of various such firms, including your own.

XY Designs stood out to me for the simplicity of its designs (I am also a fan of Scandinavian interiors!) as well as its clever use of natural lighting and earthy colors and textures. In particular, I was impressed with the renovation of the Workwell coworking space you undertook and completed in 2022.

I believe that working alongside the designers on your team and under your mentorship would be an invaluable experience, which is why I am reaching out to enquire about any potential internship opportunities you may have this coming summer. During my studies, I have become proficient in using SketchUp and 3Ds Max, and completed my final project on Scandinavian interiors and architecture specifically. I am attaching a link to my final project portfolio below.

Thank you for your time, and I hope to hear back from you soon.

Respectfully,

3. Academic application letter sample

Gregory Allen Department of English AB University Syracuse, NY

Tuesday, March 26, 2024

Dear Mr Allen,

During my undergraduate studies in animation, I discovered — quite unexpectedly — a passion for writing, and specifically writing for film and television. Although up until that point I had believed myself to be a VFX artist in the making, the discovery caused me to reconsider. Today, I am writing to express my interest in the Creative Writing MA program at AB University.

During my final year at Arts College, I produced a screenplay for a short film, and found that setting up the scene and creating a whole new world in words was far more fascinating to me than trying to recreate it by moving around and rendering pixels on a screen. I received the highest mark out of everyone on my course for that piece of writing; and that was followed by my screenwriting professor’s recommendation: the way he spoke about AB University’s history and faculty removed any sort of doubt from my mind. It all became clear: this was to be my new path.

I have attached some writing samples, as per the application guidelines: my final-year screenplay as well as two pieces of prose I wrote in my free time. I hope that you may consider my application for a spot on the Creative Writing course.

I look forward to hearing back from you. Thank you for your time!

Best wishes,

Things to remember

From writing the first draft of your application letter to editing it and adding the final touches, remember to do the following:

1. Do your research

Research is one of the most important steps when it comes to  job searching ; you need to make sure that you know all there is about the organization you’re targeting and you should have a clear understanding of what their company culture is like.

2. Don’t forget to proofread

This goes without saying, but never send your application letter off without proofreading it. With so many readily available editing tools online, there’s no excuse for a careless typo or wordy sentences. Grammarly and Hemmingway are two of the most popular programs to help you perfect your writing.

3. Use their style of writing

You can usually guess a company’s style of writing from their website and publications. So, it’s important to try and keep your letter in line with this so they can see that you’re a real match for the position and that they’d be silly to not invite you for an interview.

Final thoughts

Whether you go to write a cover letter or an application letter, or even to put together a portfolio for a prospective employer to see, the same thing applies: everything you include must be related to the position you’re hoping to land.

So, before you’ve started writing, take time to consider which of your skills, qualities and achievements best portray you as a strong candidate , and how you can best convey your interest in (and suitability for) the company as a whole.

Have you ever written an application letter before? Do you have any other tips to share with fellow jobseekers? Leave us a comment in the comments section below!

Originally published on August 21, 2018. Updated by Electra Michaelidou.

Finding a Job

Job Applications

JULIAN TALBOT

• Julian Talbot
• Jul 27, 2017
• 10 min read

How to write a job application letter that gets you to interview

"The only purpose of a job application letter is to be invited to interview."

After you've read this and downloaded a template for the job application letter , you might also like to know my thoughts on how to turn a job interview into a job offer .

There was a time when I sent out roughly 100 job application letters without even a single job interview. It was disheartening. I eventually worked out a 2-page template that landed 5 job interviews from 5 job application letters and that's what I'd like to share with you today.

I've since stopped using that particular template because I've found better ways to win jobs than applying for them, but that is a topic for another article. In any case, an example of the template is included at the end of this article. And, if you would like a version of it in MS Word format, it is on my DOWNLOADS page under the Templates category.

If you've already landed a job interview (or after this letter helps you find one) you might also like this article: " How to Turn a Job Interview Into a Job Offer ".

But back to my terrible track record of job applications ... In my defence, my CV was much leaner in 1995 than it is today. I was also living in a remote part of Australia and applying for jobs around Australia and all over the world. To be blunt though, my application letters clearly sucked! I tried not to take it personally and kept trying new approaches, including resorting to doing some reading and asking colleagues for advice. That led to that successful 2-page job application template I mentioned above. Over the years, I've also skimmed or read over 1,000 job applications and interviewed hundreds of people, so I have developed a pretty good sense for what works and what doesn't. But first to the basics. The following graphic outlines the essence of a strong application letter.

Get the formalities right Don't try to wow people with your creative design sense, unless you're applying for a creative design job. Stick to the standard format expected of a formal business letter. Your name and contact details, plus the date on the right hand side. Details of the recipient and subject on the left. Text should be justified. This is partly a matter of following convention, and partly a matter of making it look professional. Keep it short & smart The application letter should be short, sweet, smart and to the point. One of my mistakes in the past was trying to write War & Peace , responding to each selection criteria with a page of text. Simple rule of thumb is to include enough to 'weed you into contention'. Most people include enough information to weed themselves out. If they ask you, for example, for your experience with accounting software, just respond to this. Don't say you're an expert with Xero software unless they specifically ask for that. If they are looking for MYOB expertise, mentioning Xero is more likely to see you weeded out of contention rather than offered an interview. Managers and recruiters read a lot of applications and have limited time, so be precise and specific. They don’t need to know the names of every company you have worked for that’s what CV is for. Start with a strong statement It’s important to open with something that will get the recruiter’s attention. Your application letter needs to start with a strong statement outlining why you want to apply for the job and why at this company. Share what you can give to the company and what the company can give you. This requires research on your part; find out more about the company, its business, and exactly why the job and company are a good fit for you. The applicants who have researched the company they are applying to always make a good impression. Keep it relevant

Make sure that every application letter you send out is tailored to the job you are applying for. It’s important to include skills and experience that are relevant only to this job. You need to show that you have the skills required which relate to the list of essential skills and qualifications that employer is looking for. Anything in your application that doesn’t meet the requirements listed in the ad should be left out of the application. Always remember that you need to fit these points in neatly and naturally. Sell yourself In most cases your application letter is the first chance potential employers have to get to know you, so don’t miss the opportunity to sell yourself. This isn’t the time to be too modest about your achievements. Include anything you feel is relevant to the role and makes you the right candidate for the job. Tell them why are you strong fit for the role and the company. Double-check your application letter Rule 1: No typos! Rule 2: No typos! You might write a great application letter only to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory with a couple of typos or misspelling a name. People will forgive one or two if you have a great CV, but I have, more than once, rejected application letters that say things such as " I have to great attention to detail ". Back to the earlier point; don't give them any reasons to weed you out. Check the spelling and grammar of your application letter to detect any possible little errors that could turn away a potential employer. If you’re not great at spelling or grammar, or even if you are, get a friend to look it over before you press 'send'.

Send it as a PDF

Unless they specifically ask for a different format (e.g. MS Word) always send it as a PDF. That way, the formatting will always look as you intended it. And you'll get a chance to make sure that it has consistent spacing, fonts, headings, etc. Close well

Finish with something positive and upbeat. Explain how your experience or worldview will help you succeed at the job. Let them know when you’ll be available for interview (and work) and that you look forward to hearing from them.

"Remember, the only purpose of the application letter is to get you an interview. All else is fluff, and likely to exclude you from the interview list."

The Template

There is no such thing as a 'silver bullet' for job application letters but this is as close as I have come.

Page 2 of the Job Application Letter Template

And the text version of the letter ...

If you'd like to simply copy and paste, here is the text version. If you'd like to download the template in MS Word format, just subscribe to my newsletter.

Julian Talbot 10 No Such Place Tribeca ACT 2604 Tel: 555 555 555 [email protected]

February 9th, 2017

Recruitment

JulianTalbot.com [email protected]

Re: Advertised Position – Manager/Boss/CEO

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am replying to your advertisement in the New York Times in which you seek a suitably qualified person to fill the role of Manager/Boss/CEO in your Corporate Services Division [J1].

I have over 15 years <boss & management> experience across a range of industries including commercial, healthcare, resources, and Defence. [J2] While my resume provides a general outline of my work history, problem solving abilities, and some achievements, I have taken the time to summarise my applicable skills for you in the table below. I hope this allows you to use your time effectively today. [J3]

Your requirements: [J4]

Proven leadership and management skills sufficient to manage a highly skilled and diverse team of professionals.

Proven executive leadership and mentoring experience at departmental level in complex environments with staff of up to 200.

Team leader in a range of organisations including public sector, defence force, volunteer groups, security, and the resources industry. [J5]

Performance Leadership Program (Woodside/McKinsey)

Appropriate qualifications combined with substantial senior level experience in managing a large portfolio of leased and owned properties, preferably within a public sector environment;

Strong commercial experience including responsibility for property portfolio’s to $200M and annual property services budgets to $8M.

Team Leader on a review project for a $25M property services contract which delivered savings of 10% per annum through development of audit systems, Codes of Practice, contractor management systems, and Business Process Re-engineering.

Specification, tendering, evaluation, and implementation of a $17M Security contract which delivered ongoing savings of 15% ($3M).

Professional Certificate in Property Portfolio Management (UWS)

Certified Protection Professional (CPP) Accreditation (ASIS) [J6]

Excellent understanding of Government policy, direction and objectives in relation to the commercial and public interest performance of Commonwealth owned and leased properties;

Current role as Security and Risk Management Specialist for the Department of Health and Ageing is responsible for writing policy, strategic guidelines, and Chief Executive Instructions.

The role also involves provision of security, insurance, and risk management advice across the Department including assisting Property Branch with interpretation and implementation of risk management practices and the Commonwealth Protective Security Manual (PSM).

Contract Risk and Relationship Management (Woodside/PMMS) [J7]

Outstanding client relationship management skills including the ability to build credibility with Austrade staff at all levels as well as a wide range of external organisations;

Demonstrated ability to maintain sensitive relationships and manage internal and external stakeholder expectations in a variety of roles including as client, contractor, service provider, and consultant. [J8]

Demonstrated ability to contribute effectively and develop strong relationships at senior levels in a range of culturally and politically sensitive environments within Australia and internationally. [J9]

Decision Making & Problem Solving (Pilbara Technical College)

Excellent communication, interpersonal and negotiation skills;

Highly developed written communication skills including policy and procedure development, inductions, training manuals, business cases, and multi-site ISO 9000 implementation.

Extensive experience as a presenter, trainer, and facilitator for audiences at all levels which has developed strong communication, negotiating and influencing skills.

Certificate IV - Workplace Trainer & Assessor (Pilbara Technical College)

Proven high-level strategic, analytical and conceptual thinking skills including the ability to anticipate key issues and generate creative and practical solutions;

Delivered annual cost savings of 13% ($800,000) [J10] for Woodside Energy Ltd. by challenging the status quo, applying commercial risk analysis to contracting strategies, implementing policy changes, and structural reform.

Developed and implemented the Strategic Security Risk Management System for Australia’s largest resources project (NW Shelf Project). [J11]

Initiated, researched, and prepared a critically and commercially acclaimed property management strategy to release $140M capital via an Unlisted Property Trust. [J12]

Currently studying Master of Risk Management (Monash University)

Demonstrated commitment to Austrade’s values including personal development and being a team player.

Introduced and managed employee consultative committees for Chubb, PT Koba Tin, and Australasian Correctional Management.

Established and implemented staff EEO and OHS [J13] training programs in Australia’s network of Immigration Detention Centres.

Extensive record of personal development as illustrated by my resume together with the highest standards of probity, integrity and conduct as will be confirmed by referees.

Certificate IV in Occupational Health & Safety (IFAP)

My career includes experience in a variety of positions and a range of industries, all of which have required me to take a strategic view and consider downstream impacts [J14] to develop and implement systems. My success in this has been achieved through developing good working relationships, providing credible leadership, direction and advice, considering the views of others and providing feedback when required. My strong interpersonal communication skills and ability to work as part of a team [J15] have contributed to my success.

I believe my experience, technical skills, and behaviours make me an ideal candidate for the position and would welcome the opportunity to discuss the role at an interview. I can be contacted via email ([email protected]) or on 555 555 555 if you should have any questions. [J16]

Yours faithfully,

Julian Talbot [Sent electronically] [J17]

[J1] Remind them which job.

[J2] Get them interested

[J3] Explain why such a short response to criteria

[J4] My full response to criteria is in this table and the ‘Your requirements’ are the ‘Selection Criteria’ If they don’t have ‘Selection Criteria’ (and some people don’t) then analyse the advertisement closely and work out what is important to them. It will be in the body of the ad. If you really can’t work it out, see if you can ring someone to ask what their current issues and challenges are. Why are they recruiting?

[J5] Provide just enough information to respond to the criteria. Never enough for the recruiter to weed you out. Eg: If they are looking for IT skills, tell them about your 3 years working on an IT project – do NOT describe it as 3 years working on a Microsoft Sharepoint project.

[J6] Relevant qualifications in italics.

[J7] In italics at the bottom of each response to the selection criteria, include a course or professional accreditation that is relevant. At least one but no more than two.

[J8] This is a bit of a generic statement but again, it’s designed to highlight that I’ve worked in a number of roles, so have extensive experience working well with people. And to make the reader curious. I didn’t want to satisfy their curiosity with this letter, I wanted to stoke their curiosity.

[J9] This is another ‘motherhood statement’ and could be improved by adding some numbers. But it did the trick. I landed an interview and eventually the job. The main focus of this paragraph is to explain the big picture.

[J10] Numbers work! Use numbers wherever you can. They are much stronger than simply saying “achieved cost savings’. Without numbers, you may as well just say, “I’m a nice person, kind to animals … “ etc.

[J11] Bask in the reflected glory of your previous employers!

[J12] More numbers. And hopefully unusual enough to get attention.

[J13] Only use acronyms if they are so ubiquitous that you are 100% certain the reader of your letter will understand them.

[J14] Close with key words that will have resonance for this particular job.

[J15] Every job requires these so communications skills are a good place to close.

[J16] Closing. Short & sweet.

[J17] Note the Footer has my name and contact email, just in case the two pages are separated somehow.

How to Turn a Job Interview Into a Job

If you'd like to know how to convert a job interview into a job, my thoughts on that topic are at this link .

If you've read this far, you know that I've stuffed up a lot of job application letters. I've also made a mess of at least my fair share of job interviews. I'm fairly creative so you can also take it for granted that I know many different ways to 'fail' at job applications. The best advice I can give you is to not follow my advice at all but to be even more creative and make different mistakes from mine, at least until you achieve some success. Persistence is my only 'success secret', so don't say you haven't been warned if this job application template only lands you with a rejection letter when you are the 25th person that day to use the same 2-page template!

#Triple3 #Success #Skills4Life

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• Job Application Documents

How to Write a Job Application Letter (with Examples)

Last Updated: August 9, 2024 Fact Checked

Sample Letters

Introduction, body paragraphs, closing your letter, expert q&a.

This article was written by Shannon O'Brien, MA, EdM and by wikiHow staff writer, Aly Rusciano . Shannon O'Brien is the Founder and Principal Advisor of Whole U. (a career and life strategy consultancy based in Boston, MA). Through advising, workshops and e-learning Whole U. empowers people to pursue their life's work and live a balanced, purposeful life. Shannon has been ranked as the #1 Career Coach and #1 Life Coach in Boston, MA by Yelp reviewers. She has been featured on Boston.com, Boldfacers, and the UR Business Network. She received a Master's of Technology, Innovation, & Education from Harvard University. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 10,726,924 times.

So, you’ve found your dream job and want to make sure you nail the job application process. You double- and triple-check the criteria—they’re asking for a cover letter. What does that mean, and how do you write it? A cover letter or letter of application is a single page that sums up why you want and deserve the job. Think of it as an extension of your resume ; a sales pitch for why you’re the perfect candidate. We’ve put together a step-by-step guide full of examples and tips on how to write a letter of application for a job. With our help and a little finesse, you may soon be calling that dream job your own.

Things You Should Know

• Format your application letter single-spaced and in Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri font that’s 10- to 12-point in size.
• Open your letter with an engaging and confident first paragraph that briefly includes your qualifications, where you found the job, and your overall interest in the position.
• Show your personality in the body paragraphs by describing the passions that relate to the position in 1 or 2 sentences.
• Use keywords (like leadership, communication, and detail-oriented) from the job description throughout your letter to show that you’ve done your research.

• First and last name
• Phone number
• Email address
• Personal website and/or portfolio link (if you have one)

• If you don’t know the hiring manager's name, search the company’s website or refer to the name of the individual who originally posted the job opening.
• If you’re in doubt about who to address your letter to, use “[Department] Hiring Manager.”

• If you don’t have the employer or hiring manager’s name, use a general but professional opening, “To Whom It May Concern” or “Dear [Department] Hiring Manager.”

• Be short and specific in this opening paragraph—save those details for later.
• Think of your first paragraph as a sales pitch. What can you say that’ll grab their attention immediately? Is there something you have that other candidates don’t that make you more qualified for the position?
• Show the employer that you’re familiar with the company and job application by noting keywords and characteristics valued by the company.
• For example: “I write to apply for the Office Manager position at Acme Investments, Inc. I am an excellent fit for this position, as demonstrated by my extensive background in management and proven success as a corporate administrator.”

• Companies appreciate when job candidates include this information because it lets them know where people are searching for jobs.
• Only include a company contact or friend’s name if you have their permission. This way, they’ll be ready to answer any questions about you and your character later.
• You may write something like: “John Smith recommended that I get in touch with you about the general manager position at EnviroRent,” or “I came across the available position on LinkedIn and believe I am a strong candidate.”

• For instance, if the company needs someone who can lead a team and handle multiple projects at once, note what team projects you’ve led in previous positions and how you improved overall productivity.
• If you have numerical data or stats to back up your accomplishments, include them! This is your time to brag about your achievements and show how you’ve excelled in the workplace.

• Scan the job application for keywords like leadership, communication, management, and detail-oriented. Then, highlight in your letter how you have these characteristics or skills.
• Avoid embellishing any of your qualifications. Remember, an employer can always double-check the facts.
• If you’re not sure what to write, refer to your resume or CV. What have you done that matches the job description best, and how can you elaborate on it?
• For example: “In my previous role, I successfully supported an office of 100 personnel and honed my management and interpersonal skills through customer service and clerical responsibilities.”

• For instance, you could express how the company has impacted you personally and why that’s driven you to apply for the position.
• Although you want to provide details, keep it short. Stick to a 1 to 2-sentence description rather than a full-length story. Your letter should stay under 3 paragraphs.
• Here’s an example: “My passion for teaching began the summer of my sophomore year of high school when I was a camp counselor. I was given the opportunity to teach a class focusing on local plant life, and the campers’ enthusiasm cultivated my love for teaching and conservation.

• For instance, you could write, “I am excited about the possibility of working for you and your company. I would be more than happy to discuss my qualifications and Acme’s future direction in person or via video conference.”
• Keep your call to action brief and open, or provide specific dates you’d be available to meet with the employer.

• For instance, sign off with, “Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you,” or “Thank you for considering me for this position. If you have any further questions or require additional documentation, please don’t hesitate to contact me.”

• If you’re sending your letter via email, import your signature into the document as an image or .png file.

• Always proofread and ask someone else to read over your application letter before you send it. This way, you can make sure it’s absolutely perfect and error-free. [13] X Trustworthy Source Purdue Online Writing Lab Trusted resource for writing and citation guidelines Go to source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Keep the overall tone of the company or employer in mind while writing your letter. For instance, if you’re applying to be a journalist for a prestigious news website, match their word choice and writing style. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• Be sure to customize your application letter for every job you apply to, even if they have the same qualifications. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.ferrum.edu/downloads/careers/cover-letters.pdf
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/job_search_writing/job_search_letters/cover_letters_workshop/formatting_and_organization.html
• ↑ https://icc.ucdavis.edu/materials/cover-letters
• ↑ https://hbr.org/2016/05/learn-to-love-networking
• ↑ https://hbr.org/2014/02/how-to-write-a-cover-letter
• ↑ https://www.astate.edu/dotAsset/54eb42cc-33a3-4237-a46e-3f4aaac79389.pdf

About This Article

The best way to start an application letter is to mention where you found the job opportunity and how your strengths can benefit the employer. Devote time in the body paragraphs to tell the employer more about your experience and qualifications. Explain why you’re the best candidate and finish by inviting the hiring manager to contact you. For suggestions on how to prepare your letter, and examples of what to write, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Write an Application Letter

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Example of A Job Application Letter and Guidelines On How To Write One

Choose your goal below:

Are you you interested in one of the latest jobs in Kenya but have no idea how to write a job application letter?

Employers receive hundreds, if not thousands of applications for a single position and therefore your cover letter needs to stand out from the crowd.

Perfecting your job application letter should come first before you apply for any job. It is a ways of introducing yourself to a potential employer in more details than in your CV , therefore, you need to get it right.

To help you, here is a comprehensive guide on how to write a job application letter before we look at the example.

Read More >>> How To Write A Cover Letter That Recruiters Will Actually Read 

How To Write A Job Application Letter

1. Do your research

Researching is a very crucial part in job hunting. Before you begin drafting your cover letter, you need to ensure that you have done your research.

Research on who will be receiving your job application letter, the company culture, competitions, the sectors and any other emerging trends. This helps you to tailor a specific letter of application to that particular company instead of sending a generic one.

2. Tailor Your Job Application Letter Basing on The Job Description

Every job application letter you write should always be tailored towards the job and the company you are applying to.

Using a generic cover letter will not market you to that job specifically thus not convincing the employer that you are whom they search for. Writing your cover letter entails knowing to whom you are addressing your cover letter.

Avoid using the generic “Dear Sir/Madam” as it feels impersonal. If you just call ahead of time and inquire on who you should address the cover letter to.

Remember that what you are looking for at the end of the day is to stand out and personalizing your job application letter is one way of doing it.

3. Branding yourself

Just like you wrote your CV , think of your job application letter as a ways of marketing your skills and use it to brand yourself. Demonstrate your knowledge of the company so that you can better show the value you are bringing in.

Also list all the skills and qualifications that make you the ideal candidate for that position. These should be skills that are related to the particular job you are applying for.

Example of A Job Application Letter

“Your Name Here” P.O Box 42-20300 Nyahururu 1st October, 2017

The Human Resource Manager XYZ Company ltd P.0 Box 35 – 00000 Kisumu

Dear Sir/Madam

RE: APPLICATION FOR COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER POSITION

As a highly motivated and detail oriented individual, I wish to express my interest in the position advertised on your company website for a Communications Officer. I believe my outstanding interpersonal and public speaking skills that I developed during my course work and attachment at XYZ Company make me stand out as the best candidate for this position.

You mentioned that you are looking for a candidate with graphic design skills and a team player. During my course work and attachment period I was tasked with assignments where I had to make presentations and come up with publications, all of which required I work with teams and learn a new set of skills that I did not have before.

In addition to my Mass Communication Degree, Public Relations major, I have participated in writing contests through PRSK where I was able to grow both my writing and presentation skills that will come in handy in this position.

Attached please find my CV for your consideration. I look forward to an interview with you where we can discuss the value I will be bringing to your company. You can reach me on this number (give contact).

Yours Sincerely, “Your Name Here”

At the end of the day, remember that your job application letter should be unique, tailored to the job you are applying for in order to stand out. Follow these steps to come up with one or you could let us draft your the best CV and a job application letter that will get you noticed by employers.

Find Out >>> How To Write A Sample Entry Level Cover Letter

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