An application letter generally provides the details about your purpose of writing to some person or organization. They are also known as a cover letter. It is sent along with your resume or curriculum vitae to provide additional information for your skills and experience.
An application letter gives opportunity to the employer to know what position you are applying for and why the employer should select you for an interview. It explains the reasons for your concern in the specific organization and represents your most relevant skills or experiences.
Job application letter may help you get the job or simply get ignored. Such is the potentiality of such letters. Therefore, make sure it looks as professional as possible.
Your cover or application letter is often the first contact with an employer so make sure it creates a good impression. Design your letter specifically for your purpose. Writing seems a difficult task. Hence we have come up with a few tips to make your application more effective and worthy.
Tips on how to write an effective application letter:
It should be simple, to the point, grammatically correct, and error-free. Below mentioned tips will help your application stand out from the crowd
Format and language:
Application letters are formal business style letters so it is advisable to write them down in a proper formal manner. Always keep in mind that your cover letter should complement and not be a replica of your resume.
You can also add a special tone without getting too personal as sometimes it acts as a written contact with a potential employer. Your application letter should be written specifically for the position you want to work on.
Factual and concise:
Write your letter in a straightforward manner to make it relevant to the employer and the job. Try to find out what the employer wants to know and then include only the related facts to convince that you can perform well.
Write short, simple, clear and focused letter to get right to the point. Keep your letter no longer than one page and each paragraph should contain three or four sentences, at the most.
Subject Line:
Clearly mention the purpose or the subject of your letter. You can also list the job you are applying for and your name in the subject line. This would help the employer to know in what job you are interested and who you are.
Salutation or greetings:
Start your letter with proper salutation and greetings. If you know the name of the concerned person begin with “Dr./Mr./Ms. Last Name.” If you do not know the employer’s last name, simply write “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear Sir/Madam”.
Body of Letter:
Here you are required to provide all the details about skills, attributes, knowledge, experience and qualifications which will appeal to the employer.
First Paragraph:
Explain the purpose of your letter in the starting paragraph. Mention the position you are applying for and where you heard about it. Either you found the listing or it was advertised somewhere. You should precis your qualifications, skills, abilities and experience to prove why you are perfect for the job applied for.
Middle Paragraph(s):
Utilize these paragraphs to elaborate your skills and experience and the reasons why you are best for the position. Explain valid reasons as to why you are interested to work in the organization and declare them that you can perform well.
You can also express your enthusiasm for the job and the explanation why you are keen to work for the company.
Write down your personal qualities which you think the employer is looking for and emphasize on your achievements, interest, motivation, and strengths.
Last Paragraph:
Close your letter with a thank you note to the hiring manager for considering your application.
Also mention any attachments including your application letter.
Proofread:
Perfection counts when you are writing an application letters for employment. Better read your correspondence carefully before you send it.
Signature:
Now your application is ready to get signed. Make sure you include your full name, address and contact details.
