How To Write A Job Application Letter (With Examples)

When applying for jobs, you may be required to submit a job application letter, commonly known as a cover letter, alongside your resume. While your resume summarizes your professional skills and experiences, the job application letter articulates why you are the perfect fit for the role.

This letter serves as a personalized introduction that provides hiring managers with insights into your unique qualities before a job interview.

This article details the essential components and formatting of a job application letter. You will learn how to craft a concise and engaging letter that improves your chances of being invited for an interview.

Key Takeaways:

• A job application letter, or cover letter, introduces your skills and experiences that align with the job requirements.

• Include your contact information and the employer’s contact details, along with a proper salutation.

• The structure of a job application letter consists of an introductory paragraph, body paragraphs detailing your qualifications, and a concluding paragraph.

• Utilize specific examples with measurable outcomes to illustrate how your skills have been effectively applied.

• Conduct thorough research and carefully proofread your letter before submission.

Tips for Writing a Job Application Letter

If you’ve sought advice on the job application process, you’ve probably encountered the phrase “sell yourself” repeatedly. This means you should showcase your skills and achievements in a manner that captivates hiring managers and compels them to take a closer look at your application.

The plethora of online applications, cover letters, letters of intent, and interviews can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re new to this process. However, take it step-by-step and consider these helpful tips for creating a polished and engaging job application letter:

• Tailor the letter for each application. Customize your letter to address key elements from the job description, highlighting how your knowledge and experience make you an ideal candidate for that specific role.
• Avoid copying from your resume. While your resume is a formal record of your professional journey, your job application letter should emphasize particular details and demonstrate how your experiences apply to the job.
• Adhere to business letter format. Follow strict formatting guidelines to ensure your letter appears professional; a poorly formatted letter could undermine your application.
• Proofread thoroughly. Hiring managers are likely to overlook letters filled with errors. Review your letter multiple times to correct any grammar, punctuation, or spelling mistakes, and consider having someone else review it as well.
• Determine the submission method. If emailing your letter, include a subject line indicating your intent, such as “[Job Title] – [Your Name].” Adjust the placement of your contact information accordingly, placing it at the top for printed letters or below your signature in emails.

Job Application Letter Format

Use the following guidelines while drafting your job application letter, with examples for both printed and emailed formats:

1. Your Contact Information

   Name
   Address
   City, State Zip Code
   Phone Number
   Email Address

   Date

2. Employer Contact Information

   Name
   Title
   Company
   Address
   City, State Zip Code

3. Salutation

   Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name,

4. First Paragraph

   State where you found the job posting and express your interest in applying for the position. If applicable, mention a reference from someone currently at the company. Conclude this paragraph by asserting why you believe you are the ideal candidate.

5. Middle Paragraphs

   Devote one to three paragraphs discussing your qualifications for the job. Emphasize what you can bring to the company and how you would fit into its work environment. Conduct research about the company to add specificity to your letter, and provide examples of relevant projects or accomplishments.

6. Final Paragraph

   Conclude with confidence, expressing gratitude for the employer’s consideration. Indicate your desire to follow up for any questions or to arrange an interview.

7. Closing

   Sincerely/Best,

   Your Signature
   Your Name (Printed)

What’s the Difference Between a Cover Letter and a Job Application Letter?

A cover letter is typically submitted with a resume for a specific job opening, while a job application letter can be sent independently. Both formats bear similarities, but a job application letter tends to be more detailed.

While a cover letter serves as a brief introduction to your resume for a specific position, a job application letter allows you to provide a comprehensive overview of your qualifications, even when no specific openings are advertised. Consequently, job application letters are often longer than standard cover letters.

Dos and Don’ts for Writing a Job Application Letter

Now that we’ve explored the basic formatting and examples of a job application letter, here are some concise dos and don’ts to help you during the drafting process:

Dos

• Explain your value to the company. Consider how your experience aligns with the hiring manager’s needs.
• Highlight your skills. Select a few skills from your resume and explain how you have applied them in previous roles.
• Provide specific examples. Reference significant projects or achievements from your past that demonstrate your capabilities and make your application more compelling.
• Edit your letter thoroughly. Review your letter multiple times, have someone else look it over, and utilize online grammar check tools to ensure it is error-free.

Don’ts

• Don’t focus on what the job offers you. While mentioning your aspirations is fine, avoid vague flattery; focus on your qualifications instead.
• Don’t merely list job descriptions. Instead of simply stating your previous roles, explain what you learned from those experiences and how they shaped your skills.
• Don’t repeat your resume. Use your job application letter to complement your resume by elaborating on key points rather than reiterating the same information.
• Don’t submit an unedited letter. Your job application letter is often the first impression you make on potential employers, so ensure it is polished and free of errors.

With these tips, guidelines, and examples in hand, you’ll be well-equipped to craft your job application letter with confidence, taking a significant step towards securing employment.

Author

Chris Kolmar

Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.