Application Letter

Definition

A letter of application, also known as a cover letter, is a document sent with your resume to provide additional information on your skills and experience. A letter of application typically provides detailed information on why are you are qualified for the job you are applying for. Effective application letters explain the reasons for your interest in the specific organization and identify your most relevant skills or experiences. Your application letter should let the employer know what position you are applying for, why the employer should select you for an interview, and how you will follow-up.

When writing an application letter, you should include:

• First Paragraph: Why you are writing – mention the job you are applying for and where you found the listing.
• Middle Paragraph(s): What you have to offer the employer – mention why your skills and experience are a good fit for the job.
• Last Paragraph: Say thank you to the hiring manager for considering you and note how you will follow up.

Purpose

        The purpose of an application letter is to improve your chances of being called for an interview, by convincing the reader that you would be the best person for the job. If your letter is poorly written, the reader will not likely take the time to look at your résumé. So, your job application letter is a crucial chance at making a good first impression.

Format

• Heading

        A letter of application should begin with both your and the employer's contact information (name, address, phone number, email) followed by the date. 

• Subject

        The subject line is the first impression your employer will get from you. It should be well-written and free of spelling and grammatical errors. 

• Greeting

        This is your polite greeting. The most common salutation is "Dear Mr./Mrs." followed by the person's last name.

• Body of Letter

1. First paragraph, offer some specific, focused information regarding the job you're seeking and a few core strengths that demonstrate your suitability for the position.
2. Second paragraph, what you have to offer the employer.
3. Third paragraph, your knowledge of the company. Show that you did your research and know something about the business and how you can contribute to its mission.
4. Fourth paragraph, your closing. Summarize what you would bring to the position and suggest next steps by requesting a meeting or suggesting a call.

• Closing

        Finish your letter with a formal closing like "Sincerely" or "Yours truly".

• Signature

        If you're sending a paper letter, type your name after the salutation, leaving a space for your handwritten signature. If you're sending an email cover letter, type your name and contact information after your salutation.

Expressions/Sentences

• Add contact details, date, salutation and letter's purpose

        Format your expression of interest like a standard business letter, with the following details aligned to the left, taking a new line for the details in every bullet point:

1. Your name
2. Your job title, if applicable
3. Your phone number
4. Your email address
5. Your street addresses
6. Your city, state/territory and postcode
7. The date written in full
8. Recipient's name, if known
9. Recipient's company
10. Recipient's street address
11. Recipient's city, state/territory and postcode
12. Salutation

• Introduce yourself

        Your first paragraph can tell the employer who you are and why you are writing to them. Discuss why you'd like an opportunity with the company, making specific references to the elements of the business you like, such as its products and values. If you're interested in a particular department or job title, note this in your introduction.

• Describe your background

        Your second paragraph can show the employer the value you'd bring to their organization. Note your relevant skills and some of your key accomplishments. Mention your qualifications and work history without going into great detail, as the employer can learn more by reading your resume.

• Write a positive conclusion

        Conclude your expression of interest by thanking the employer for reading your letter. Note that you can attend an interview when it's convenient for the company. A positive conclusion can encourage the employer to keep your expression of interest until they're ready to hire new staff. Add a professional sign-off and your signature above your printed name.

How to Write an Effective Application Letter

• Specifically state what it is that you are applying for or interested in applying for (e.g., the position, appointment, student or other visa, extension on a deadline, loan, credit card, etc.).
• Identify the reason that you are applying. Be as specific as possible.
• Give the reasons that you feel you merit or qualify for the position or object/thing you are applying for, if applicable (e.g., your goals, experience, qualifications or accomplishments, positive traits, and so forth).
• Identify what you hope to accomplish by sending your letter and the action you would like the recipient to take.
• Indicate the date by which you would like a response to your letter or by which you would like the action to be taken.
• Refer to any other documents you have included with your letter, such as application or other forms, letters of recommendation, resume, examples of your work, etc.
• Include a request for any information you would like to be sent, if applicable.
• Include your contact information, such as e-mail address or phone number where you can most easily be reached and the time(s) when you available for calls, etc.
• Close your letter by sincerely thanking the person for his/her time or for any assistance he/she can give you.

Sample

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• Indented

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• Semi-indented

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Job Advertisement

 

Writing an Application Letter

Jasinta Sekarjati

Liberty St.

Any City

February 14, 2023

Mr. Adi

HRD Manager

ILOA Projects

123 Anywhere St.

Any City

Dear Mr. Adi

I would like to apply for the job of ‘Drafter’ that I saw advertised in KOMPAS Newspaper, February 10, 2023. My relevant experienced in a similar position really matches with the qualification you need.

I am 26 years old and graduated from Diponegoro University majoring in Civil Engineering. My working experiences are Chief Technical Officer at PT POLA DWIPA for two years. I am confident that I will perform a job which will meet your standard.

For further information, I attached my CV. I would be grateful if you could give me an opportunity for an interview at any time available. 

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Jasinta Sekarjati

CV