Application letter template

A letter of application is also called a cover letter. It represents a document sent together with the curriculum vitae to provide additional information on the applicant's skills and experience.

A typical letter of application provides detailed information on why someone is qualified for the job he or she applies for. Effective letters of application explain the reasons for the interest in the specific organization and identify the applicant's most relevant skills or experiences.

The letter of application should let the employer know what position the applicant is applying for, why the employer should select he or she for an interview, and how the applicant will follow-up.

When writing an application letter, the following should be included:

• First Paragraph: Here you should mention the job you are applying for and where you found the listing.

• Middle Paragraph(s): This is where you should write what you have to offer the employer – make sure to mention why your skills and experience are a good fit for the job.

• Last Paragraph: You should thank the hiring manager for considering you and note how you will follow up. Close with "Sincerely" or "Yours truly," and be sure to sign the letter.

A cover letter usually accompanies each resume the applicant sends out. The cover letter can make the difference between obtaining a job interview and having your resume ignored. It makes thus important to devote the necessary time and effort to writing effective cover letters.

A cover letter should complement, not duplicate the curriculum vitae. Its purpose is to include any additional information that you or the employer require and add a personal touch. A cover letter is often your earliest written contact with a potential employer, creating a critical first impression. It should be brief and highlight the skills that you want the employer to see first.

The cover letter should introduce you and explain why you have found interest in the position in which you are applying. Cover letters should highlight the years of experience, major professional accomplishments and skills that are directly related to the position. Make sure you avoid any parallel personal observations which are not strictly related to the position applied for.

It is advisable to state in the letter of application any salary requirements or relocation assistance options that may have been requested by the employer. If the employer does not request this information, make sure you do not include it here.

A well-written application letter shows the applicant's written communication skills and abilities. Double-check your letter for punctuation and grammar accuracy.

The application letter should address your professional goals and explain how you and the company can benefit from them. It should also reflect that you have researched the company, its mission and values and express how you fit into them. The interest shown by the applicant for the company's history is well appreciated by the future employer.

Ever thought of how long should the application letter be? In general, you shouldn’t let your cover letter exceed one page. Keeping your cover letter short serves several purposes. First, it shows that you know how to organize your thoughts in a clear and logical manner. Second, it shows that you know how to present your ideas concisely. Finally, it indicates that you respect the hiring manager’s time and understand that she has a lot of cover letters and resumes to read.

A hiring manager will spend no more than 20 seconds with each cover letter, so a lengthy letter is both futile and a turn-off. Four paragraphs should be plenty, with no more than three sentences in each paragraph. When editing, make sure you don’t repeat any information. Eliminate any extra words, and get directly to your point. Nobody is interested in your life story.

In order to grab the reader’s attention, outline what you can do for the company, and say thanks. Save everything else for the interview.

If you’re sending your application letter by e-mail, you have to be even more concise. Ideally, the entire letter will fit on the computer screen at one time.

In rare occasions, two-page cover letters are acceptable, such as when you have extensive work experience or are applying for a job that requires very technical or specific qualifications. But please remember that this is the exception and not the norm. Even if you’re applying for an extremely technical or extremely senior position, it still is advisable for you to limit the application letter to one page and have a longer curriculum vitae instead.

When writing the application letter, remember that less is more. You should supply the necessary information in as little space as possible. The hiring manager will admire your ability to be direct and concise and will appreciate your respect for her or his time.

Usually, traditional application letters work better for larger companies. A creative application letter might have more appeal for a smaller organization looking for someone with a certain type of personality or someone the company can mold to fit its needs.

A creative cover letter can also work well if you’re applying for a job in an artistic industry or one that rewards creativity. If you’re posting a resume on a job website, the traditional cover letter is probably the best, since it is useful for a broader range of jobs.

There are three general types of cover letters:

• The application letter which responds to a known job opening

• The prospecting letter which inquires about possible positions

• The networking letter which requests information and assistance in your job search