Application Letter
The meaning
of an application letter
An
application letter is a formally written one-page letter that accompanies a
resume and other requested documentation in application for a job or academic
program. Application letters are often
synonymous with cover letters, and in addition to describing what materials are
included in the application, an application letter should also take time to
highlight the qualifications that prepare the writer for acceptance into the
job or academic program.
Application letters typically begin
with an introductory paragraph that states the position being applied to,
reveals how the minimum qualifications for the position are met and asks the
reader to continue reading to learn more about the applicant's qualifications.
Paragraphs that follow the
introduction paragraph typically highlight the top reasons the applicant should
be considered. For experienced applicants, these paragraphs typically highlight
work experience and workplace projects of significance. For less experienced
applicants and new graduates, these paragraphs might highlight academic
experience, such as classes taken that would be useful in this position or any
particular academic projects or honors received.
An application letter should also
include a concluding paragraph that express appreciation to the receiver for
taking the time to consider the application. The final sentence should convey
that the applicant looks toward the future by asking for a formal interview
in-person, online or by phone.
The parts of
an application letter
The main parts of an application
letter include the address section, heading of the letter, the opening
paragraph stating the reason for writing a letter, the main body and the
closing paragraph. In some cases, an applicant may add a paragraph that
expresses gratitude for being considered. The letter must have a paragraph
explaining the skills and reasons that qualify the candidate for the position.
The applicant includes an address
and contact information on the upper right-hand corner of the letter in the
indented format. The addressee's name, title, department, company name and
address are on the left part below the applicant's address.
The opening paragraph must state the
reason for applying the job. The second and third sections form the main body
of the letter. The applicant sells himself to the addresses in these
paragraphs. In this part, an applicant cites the highest qualification and the
reason for changing jobs. In the third section, an applicant matches the skills
and experience with those required by the potential employer. The closing
paragraph must indicate the applicant's desire to be invited for an interview.
It is important to write about
availability and willingness to work with the company. The application letter
shows the applicant's enthusiasm and passion for the job.
Types of
application letter
- Speculative letters are sent as
part of a speculative application,
together with a CV.
- Covering letters accompany an application form or CV for an advertised job vacancy.
Speculative
letter
- the
kind of
work you're looking for
- why you want to work for that
organisation in particular
- why you are suitable - emphasise your
relevant skills, experience and personal qualities by highlighting
particular information in your enclosed CV.
- tailored
to the specific organisation rather than a standard letter used for a
number of speculative applications
- addressed
to a named individual. Telephone the organisation and ask if you're not
sure who to send it to.
Example
speculative letter
5 Dumbleton Road Cirencester
Gloucestershire GL10 3 BN
31st August
2012
Dr. E. Smith Reserves Manager The Waverley Nature Society Alvenlea
Northumberland NE42 6TT
Dear Doctor Smith,
Nature
Reserve Warden
I am writing to enquire whether there are any vacancies for Nature
Reserve Wardens in the Waverley Nature Society. I have recently graduated with
a BSc (Hons) Natural Sciences with Biology.
As you will see from my enclosed CV I have been active in the
field of conservation for many years now, working for the Society, first as a youth
leader, and for the past twenty years in the local members’ group, of which I
am currently Chairperson. I have extensive knowledge of the Society and have
close contact with local staff.
My present job, as Visitor Centre Manager for the Sandylands Wetlands
Trust, gives me up-to-date knowledge of conservation issues and contact with
people who are interested in natural history. I have acquired skills in
organisation, IT, budgeting, supervision of staff and site management, all of
which are relevant to the above post.
My lifelong interest in the natural world made me decide on a
complete career change, and with this in mind I began studying for an
appropriate degree with the Open University. Studying part-time, while working
full-time, required enthusiasm, energy and motivation over six years, and I
feel that this provides sufficient evidence of my commitment to a post
involving conservation.
I would be able to take up a post from November, but if there are
no vacancies at present I would be very happy to be considered for any short
term contracts as a summer warden on any of your reserves.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours sincerely,
John Smith
Covering
letter
It should be clearly structured to cover
- what you're applying for - the job
title and where you saw the advert
- why you're applying to them, why the job
interests you and why you want to work for that organisation in particular
- why you are suitable - emphasise your
relevant skills, experience and personal qualities by elaborating on the
information in your CV or application form. Make sure you match your skills to the person specification, and use the same key words where
possible. If you have a disability or a criminal record, you may want to
use your covering letter to disclose this to an employer.
Example
covering letter
5 Hunter’s Glen Edinburgh EH12 5ZZ
31st August
2012
Mrs. M. Cairns Project Manager Youth in Trust 56 High Road Bristol
BS1 6EQ
Dear Mrs. Cairns,
Development
Officer, Job Reference No. 5469
I am enclosing my CV in response to your advertisement for the
above post which appeared in the Daily Clarion on 15th August 2012.
As you will see I have recently graduated from the Open University
with an Honours degree in Psychology. I have been studying part-time for the
last six years, as well as working full-time as a Care Assistant and running a
home. I feel that this demonstrates my ability to maintain dedication,
motivation and enthusiasm for a project over a long period of time. In
addition, balancing full-time work with study has honed my time-management and
organisational skills. I consider that the study of Psychology is particularly
appropriate for the above post, particularly the course on Child Development
which explored the personal, social and emotional development of children. In
addition, my work on the course Working with Young People taught me a good deal
about dealing with difficult behaviour in young people aged between twelve and
twenty-five, the age group of Youth in Trust participants.
My current job as a Care Assistant, working in a residential home
with young people with additional needs, has given me an insight into the value
of work with teenagers, and has underlined my determination to work with this
age group. In addition, my voluntary work with the Everett Project, when I
organised some sporting competitions during the residential week at a holiday
camp for young offenders, has reassured me that I am able to make a significant
contribution in this particular area.
From reading your Annual Report I am assured that your work with
youngsters who have been identified as being at risk of offending is highly
regarded in the community. I would find the post of Development Officer for
Youth in Trust very worthwhile and challenging, and I do hope that you will
look favourably at my application. I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours sincerely,
Mrs Elizabeth Page
Your letter should
- be
typed and no more than one side of A4
- refer
to the job title and reference, as given in the
application information
- refer
to the most relevant parts of your CV, but not repeat general detail to be
found there.
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