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How to Write a Letter of Application (with Examples)

A letter of application (also known as a cover letter, application letter, or job application letter) is a one-page letter sent with your resume to convince employers you’re qualified for their role.

Rebecca Tay, PhD

As featured in *

While there are many purposes for a letter of application , it’s generally intended to give employers more information about you and why you’re applying.

Here’s an example of a simple job application letter:

Example of a one-page letter of application for a job on a simple template with red header text and centered contact information.

Letter of Application Template (Text Version)

Dear Ms. Ross,

I’m thrilled to apply for the Junior Front End Developer role at CodePros, which I found on Monster.com. Having had an extremely positive experience completing CodePros online courses in 2017 and applying the skills I learned to my freelance work, I know how valuable online programming education is. My experience with CodePros increased my confidence to complete courses and gain more skills in React.js and JavaScript. I’d love to work for a company that gives students 24/7 support and excellent resources to learn programming skills.

In 2021, I freelanced for Climbers USA, a mountain climbing website in San Francisco, to produce a visually appealing website within 3 weeks. Using my time management and communication skills, I developed a single-page application for them using HTML, CSS, Javascript, and React.js. This project has generated over $800,000 in revenue for Climbers USA to date. I hope to bring my coding abilities to CodePros, where building numerous user-friendly web applications for clients in a timely manner is of the upmost importance.

Besides my freelance work, I’m self-taught in the MERN Stack and am mentoring 2 new programmers to use it for generating user-friendly apps and websites. I also stay up to date on current industry trends and have published 30+ coding articles on Medium to help others on their coding journeys. It would be an honor to work with CodePros to further promote the joys of programming and self-development.

I look forward to meeting you in a future interview. You can reach me anytime at (415) 768-4624, or at [email protected]. Thank you for your time and consideration.

William Grant

An effective letter of application:

  • expands on the skills, achievements, and professional experiences you want to highlight
  • explains your personal interest in applying to the position
  • describes what you can offer the company

sample of an official job application letter

Our free-to-use cover letter builder can make you a cover letter in as little as 5 minutes. Just pick the template you want, and our software will format everything for you.

How to write a letter of application (6 tips)

Before you start writing your letter of application, research the company and read the job posting carefully so you know how to describe your experience in a way that gets the employer’s attention.

Once you’ve done your preparation, follow these steps to write a letter of application that lands interviews:

sample of an official job application letter

How to write a cover letter

Dread writing cover letters? Read our guide to learn how to write a great cover letter that convinces hiring managers you’re the ideal person for the job.

1. Put your contact information in your letter of application header

Your letter of application’s header should match your resume header and provide your basic contact information to make it easy for hiring managers to invite you for interviews. Make sure to include your:

  • email address
  • phone number

Depending on the job, you can also include other professional online profiles such as your portfolio or LinkedIn profile to help hiring managers learn more about your past work.

This is an example of a good job application letter header:

Example of a letter of application header, featuring the candidate's name and contact information.

2. Address the hiring manager

The next part of your cover letter is the contact person’s information and a salutation (also called a greeting). To get started, write the hiring manager’s contact information at the top-left of your letter of application, including their name, company address, phone number, and email address. If the job ad doesn’t list this information, search for it online or call the company to ask for the hiring manager’s details.

Writing the date is optional in 2024. If you do include the date, place it above the employer’s contact information and format it as [Month] [Day], [Year]. For instance, January 16, 2024.

In your job application letter’s salutation, you should address the hiring manager by name to show that you’ve taken time to tailor your letter to the company. Use the format: Dear Mr./Ms./Mx. [Last Name]. If you can’t find the name, use a salutation like “Dear Hiring Manager” to avoid using the generic “ To Whom It May Concern ”.

Here’s how the employer’s contact information and your greeting should look:

An example showing how to format the hiring manager's contact information on a letter of application

3. Grab the hiring manager’s attention with your introduction

In our recent survey of hiring managers and their thoughts on application letters , 41% said that the introduction of a job application letter leaves the biggest impression on them compared to other sections. So start your application letter off strong by:

  • introducing yourself
  • mentioning how you heard about the position
  • explaining why you’re applying

A great example is the introduction from the letter of application example above:

I’m thrilled to be applying for the Junior Front End Developer role for CodePros, which I found on Monster.com. Having had an extremely positive experience completing CodePros online courses in 2017 and applying the skills I learned there to my freelance work, I understand how valuable online programming education can be. My experience with CodePros increased my confidence to complete courses and gain more skills in React.js and JavaScript. I’d love to work for a company that provides students with 24/7 support and excellent resources to learn programming skills.

If you’re writing a cover letter for an internal position , you don’t need to mention where you heard about the role or go over your entire professional background. Instead, highlight a couple of accomplishments from your time at the company.

This introduction catches the hiring manager’s attention because it’s tailored to the specific role and company . In our survey, 46% of hiring managers consider tailoring a letter of application to be either fairly or very important when deciding whether to invite applicants for interviews. Customizing your application letter not only demonstrates you’re a good fit for the position but also shows employers you:

  • actually want to work for them
  • are detail-oriented
  • can do research
  • are diligent (and will apply the same amount of effort to your work tasks)

Write a customized application letter for each job, even if it’s not required. Because 73% of hiring managers whose companies don’t require application letters still read them, writing an application letter is necessary to set yourself apart from the competition in 2024.

4. Highlight industry-specific skills (with numbers) in your body paragraphs

Next, add 2–4 body paragraphs with information about how your skills, experience, achievements, and education can help the target company achieve its goals. Rather than bragging, the goal of your body paragraphs is to show the hiring manager why you’d be a good fit for the position.

Match the job posting when choosing which of your hard and soft skills to highlight in your job application letter. Hard skills and knowledge are technical capabilities learned from hands-on experience, training, or education. Programming, data analysis, and user interface (UI) design are examples of hard skills.

By contrast, soft skills relate to emotional intelligence and let employers know how you interact with others in the workplace. For instance, organization skills , teamwork , and interpersonal expertise show you work well with others as well as on your own.

Your resume’s skills section should already list many of your hard skills. So use your letter of application to highlight your skills that can’t be easily tested or backed by your resume’s certifications or education section .

And just as it’s essential to quantify your achievements on your resume , it’s equally important to use hard numbers in the body paragraphs of your letter of application. Adding numbers to your application letter when other applicants only vaguely describe their qualifications will make your application memorable. The budgets you worked with, people you helped, and number of projects you were a part of can all be quantified using hard numbers.

Using numbers also shows the hiring manager the extent of what you can do. So, for example, if you’re applying to a smaller nursing home with only 50 beds, the first statement below shows you’re more than qualified to handle caregiving for their residents, while the statement without hard numbers is unclear:

Hard numbers

“I worked in a team of 8 caregivers to provide excellent customer service for 100+ residents in recreation areas and reception”

No hard numbers

“I worked in a team and provided customer service to elderly residents”

5. Choose engaging words for your application letter

Your letter of application’s length should be 250 to 400 words or 3 to 4 paragraphs — long enough to get your point across but short enough that the reader won’t lose interest. So make every word count by using strong action verbs and powerful adjectives instead of buzzwords.

For instance, buzzwords like “tasked with,” “responsible for,” and “participated in” are passive and sound like you copied responsibilities from a job posting. Instead, use verbs like “spearheaded,” “managed,” and “executed.” Here’s an excerpt from a UX designer’s letter of application that successfully uses action verbs and power adjectives :

As a Senior UX designer for Sparklabs from 2015–2017, I worked as the sole UX designer. Under minimal supervision, I systematically executed over 4 major design projects for our new website in Canada, including launching 10 prototypes based on different case studies and conducting 50+ user interviews. My innovative designs boosted our marketing campaigns by 92%, which was extremely rewarding.

Along with action verbs, descriptive adjectives help your cover letter to tell a story, which is important because stories are 22 times more likely to be remembered than facts alone. For instance, a hotel manager should include adjectives such as “courteous,” “decisive,” and “tactful” to give hiring managers a better feel for their customer service skills and way with people.

By carefully choosing adjectives for your job application letter, you also help employers evaluate whether you’re someone they’d want to work with. Notice the difference in this nurse’s experience written with and without power adjectives:

Power adjectives

In my role as a head nurse at Grey’s Hospital for 7+ years, I provided exceptional service with my kind bedside manner during emergency surgical procedures to 200+ patients per week. My cheerful demeanor brought patients a sense of calm in the emergency room.

No power adjectives

In my role as a head nurse at Grey’s Hospital for 7+ years, I provided good customer service to 200+ patients every week. I helped doctors with emergency surgical procedures in the emergency room.

6. Close your application letter with a call to action

End your application letter by inviting the hiring manager to contact you for an interview. Include your phone number and email address in your call to action to make it that much easier for a hiring manager to call you straightaway.

Finally, include an appropriate letter of application sign-off such as “Sincerely” or “Best Regards,” followed by your name.

Sincerely, Will Grant

Putting an electronic or real signature between your sign-off and your typed name is optional.

How to format your letter of application

Unsure how to format your letter of application ? Here are 4 tips for formatting an application letter so it stands out to employers:

1. Choose an appropriate font and font size

An appropriate application letter font size is between 10.5 to 12 points. Using a suitable font size ensures readability and that there’s enough white space throughout your letter, making it look professional.

Also, you should pick a professional letter of application font like:

  • Times New Roman

Professional fonts are easily scanned by applicant tracking systems (ATS), which is software that filters applications for keywords. An ATS might not be able to read your letter of application if you use uncommon fonts.

2. Fix your margins

Properly sized margins help create the perfect mix of white space and text, making your letter of application easy to read. The standard size for application letter margins is 1″, the default on Microsoft Word. However, you can adjust your margins between ½” and 1½”:

If you have a lot of relevant experience that addresses the job posting you’re responding to, changing your margins to ½” to fit more text on the page is fine.

If you have less experience to describe , you can adjust your margins up to 1½” to make your letter appear longer.

Just keep in mind that very wide margins look unprofessional, while extra narrow margins make your application letter look cluttered.

3. Save your file as a PDF

Job application letters should always be saved as a PDF file to ensure that your letter gets picked up easily by ATS software and passed onto employers. PDFs also keep your formatting intact and don’t allow others to modify your application.

Save your letter under an appropriate file name, such as “First-Name-Last-Name-Application-Letter.pdf”. Using a professional file name makes it easy for hiring managers to find your application in their inbox or on their desktop.

Always review each job posting carefully for keywords to use in your application . Adding these keywords enables your application to be read by ATS as well as demonstrates to the employer you’re a good fit for the role.

4. Simplify your formatting for letters sent in the body of an email

There are a few details to remember if you write an email letter of application for an employer.

First, write a professional subject line that shows your intent. Make sure your email subject line contains your name and the exact job title you’re applying for.

Second, in an email letter of application, there’s no need to type out the hiring manager’s contact information and the date (this information is already included in the email). So begin with the salutation, addressing the hiring manager using “Dear Mr./Ms./Mx. [Last Name],”.

Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx.] [Hiring Manager’s Last Name],

It’s my pleasure to apply as a [Job Title] at [Company Name].

Third, before emailing your letter of application, list your contact information below your email signature .

Phone: (xxx) xxx-xxxx Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/yourname

Here’s an example of a job application letter sent as an email:

Example of how to send a job application letter in the body of an email

Frequently asked questions about application letters

Want more information on how to write a job application letter? Below we provide answers to 3 common questions related to application letter writing:

1. Is a letter of application the same as a cover letter?

A letter of application for a job is the same as a cover letter. Often recruiters and hiring managers will use the terms interchangeably to refer to a letter sent to give a hiring manager more information about your qualifications.

But application letters (or letters of application) for academic programs and scholarships differ from cover letters. Compared to a cover letter, an application letter for academic purposes is:

  • tailored to the academic program or scholarship’s goals, rather than a specific job
  • often longer (acceptable to be 1–2 pages)
  • accompanied by other application materials (e.g., your transcript, resume for college , personal statement)

2. What should I avoid writing in a letter of application?

Avoid common application letter red flags, which include:

  • addressing the company incorrectly (such as sending a letter of application you wrote for a different job)
  • lying about your qualifications
  • speaking negatively about previous jobs or employers
  • including personal information not relevant to the job
  • typos or grammar mistakes

3. How do I write a job application letter that stands out?

To write a job application letter that stands out, explain how your qualifications match the requirements in the job posting. Identify a few of the most important requirements that match your background and skills and provide concrete evidence for them, such as numbers or quotes from previous employers or coworkers.

Other ways to help your application stand out include:

  • using skills-based keywords from the job ad
  • mentioning a particularly impressive achievement
  • striking the right tone (e.g., showing your humor and personality while still being professional)
  • using a clean and engaging application letter template

Additional Letter of Application FAQs

  • What should the first paragraph of a cover letter include?
  • What do employers look for in a cover letter?
  • Who reads cover letters?
  • How do you write your availability on a cover letter?
  • Should you bring a cover letter to an interview?

Letter of Application

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sample of an official job application letter

Rebecca Tay, Ph.D.

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  • Mar 26, 2024
  • 11 min read

How to Write a Job Application Letter (Tips and Examples)

Your guide to getting your foot in the door.

Joanna Zambas

Joanna Zambas

Content Manager and Career Expert

Reviewed by Chris Leitch

Illustration of an applicant writing a letter

Do you have your heart set on a specific company but have never seen them post a single vacancy? And are you on the verge of giving up completely, and convinced you’re going to be jobless and broke for the rest of your life?

Well, don’t crumple your  perfectly written résumé  in a ball of paper just yet — there’s still hope for you!

All you need to do is write an awesome job application letter.

Application letters are a great way to get your foot in the door of a company that hasn’t advertised a position or when you’re applying for an academic program or an  internship .

So, what are you waiting for?

Read on to find out how to write a great job application letter (and land that  dream job  of yours in the process)!

What is a job application letter/email?

Whereas cover letters are used when applying for a specific vacancy, and include details which are complementary to what’s on the applicant’s résumé, application letters are submitted when there is no job opening, and they tend to be more detailed.

Unlike cover letters, which usually span about one page, application letters can be twice as long.

How should you structure your letter?

The structure and formatting of your application letter is just as important as the words you use to sell your skills and enthusiasm for the job. The pointers below will help you deliver your message in a professional and effective way.

Sender’s address

Begin your letter with your address listed in the left-hand corner of the page. In the US, it’s acceptable to list your address in the right-hand corner. (Skip this step if you’re going to send your application via email.)

If you’re applying via email, create an email address for professional use if you haven’t already. This should include your first and last names or initials — no nicknames or years of birth! Two appropriate examples are [email protected] and [email protected] .

As with any official letter, include the date of your letter below your address.

Subject line

The  subject of your email  should make the manager want to read more and not automatically press the “Delete” button. It could be something like: “Social Media Expert with over 5 Years of Experience”.

Inside address

The company’s address should appear a few lines below your address and the date. Skip this if you’re sending an email.

As with any formal letter, you need to open with the correct formal salutation (such as “Dear Mr [surname]” or “Dear Ms [surname]”).

It’s also best to find out who the head of the department is, and address your letter directly to them to show that you’ve taken the time to really do your research. If you begin with “Dear Hiring Manager”, for example, you’re potentially destroying your chances of getting the job you’re applying for.

Opening paragraph

The opening paragraph should provide details on why you’re getting in touch.

Think about what you want to achieve with this letter before forming your answer. For example, you could say that it’s been a dream of yours to work for the company and that you feel that, given the chance, you’d love to bring new skills and ideas to the table. You can also highlight any qualifications you have here.

Middle paragraph(s)

This is where you will explain why you’re suitable for the position by listing skills you’ve developed through previous work experience . Remember that this shouldn’t be a word-for-word copy of your résumé; rather, you should use this as an opportunity to expand on notable achievements.

And make sure you tailor the content of your letter to the particular job title and company you’re applying to — you don’t want to ramble on about irrelevant details.

Final paragraph

Finally, focus on what you bring to the table and how the company can benefit from your skills and experience. If you have statistics and figures to back up your claims, even better!

For example, if you’re an experienced project manager, you could say how you want to showcase your leadership skills and help the company reach its desired turnover, and then back this up with statistics on how you did just that in previous positions.

You should close your letter with a call-to-action. For example, you could say something like: “I look forward to hearing back from you to discuss any possibilities”. And don’t forget to thank the reader for their time!

Your name and signature

If you’re sending this by snail mail, opt for a handwritten signature. If, on the other hand, you’re sending an email, simply write your name, followed by your contact information.

Most application letter templates (and formal letter templates in general) use the Times New Roman typeface at 12 points. Other recommended fonts include Arial, Georgia and Calibri.

Tips for writing your letter

When it’s time to write an application letter, bear the following points in mind to ensure that your document captures the hiring manager’s attention and successfully creates the impression that you’d make a good fit for their company.

1. Include bullet points

Bullet points can be used as an effective formatting tool when writing your application letter. They can demonstrate points clearly and concisely, as well as help with the overall layout, allowing for bite-sized, readable chunks of information.

2. Make sure the language you use is easy to read

You might be a literary wizard , but those long words won’t impress the hiring manager if they make your letter difficult to read.

3. Use positive language

Positivity is the way forward when it comes to selling your skills to a potential employer. Therefore, you should use positive words when explaining your previous work experience.

These words include “assisted”, “conducted”, “executed”, “proposed” and “recommended”, which (when used right) can demonstrate your contribution and dedication to your role and organization.

4. Be creative

Depending on the industry that you’re interested in, you can be a bit creative with your approach . This means that you don’t have to follow the conventional structure of a cover letter, and can instead adopt a more story-like approach.

Should you add any attachments?

Since application letters are not submitted in response to particular job ads, but rather serve as an inquiry into any unadvertised openings which may be available, they tend to be standalone documents. That is to say they are not typically accompanied by other files.

Whereas cover letters are concise, tailored to the job posting and accompanied by résumés, your letter of application will be a more extensive account of your skills and experiences.

That being said, if you’re applying for a creative position such as that of a video editor or blog writer, it makes sense to include a few samples of your work that best represent your talent and ability.

Job application letter samples

The following application letter samples can give you an idea as to what to include in your letter, as well as how to structure it effectively.

1. Job application email sample

Dear Mr Cannon,

I have long been following your company’s growth and progress, being extremely passionate about clean, renewable energy. I remember coming across XYZ Renewables back in the early 2000s, when it was still in its early startup stages, and I admire how your leadership has grown the company since.

Having gained extensive experience as a solar consultant over the last decade, I have kept an eye out for any job opportunities with XYZ Renewables. This is why I am writing to you today: to express a keen interest in working with you in the future, should any solar consultation vacancies become available at your company.

In my current role at ABC Energies, I train new hires in advising and liaising with clients, as well as in designing and installing solar systems that cater to the needs and budget of our clients. I carry out the same duties myself, and have been commended for my customer service skills and technical know-how in solar systems installations. Over the last year, I have overseen and facilitated transactions totaling upwards of $1 million.

I appreciate you taking the time to read through my application. I hope that my skills and work experience can contribute to a fruitful collaboration down the line.

Yours sincerely,

Mark Rowling

2. Internship application email sample

Dear Ms Kipling,

Ever since I was a sophomore in high school, I’ve dreamed about pursuing an undergraduate degree in interior design and going on to work for an award-winning architectural firm. During my studies at AB College, where I graduated from just over a month ago, I became exposed to the works of various such firms, including your own.

XY Designs stood out to me for the simplicity of its designs (I am also a fan of Scandinavian interiors!) as well as its clever use of natural lighting and earthy colors and textures. In particular, I was impressed with the renovation of the Workwell coworking space you undertook and completed in 2022.

I believe that working alongside the designers on your team and under your mentorship would be an invaluable experience, which is why I am reaching out to enquire about any potential internship opportunities you may have this coming summer. During my studies, I have become proficient in using SketchUp and 3Ds Max, and completed my final project on Scandinavian interiors and architecture specifically. I am attaching a link to my final project portfolio below.

Thank you for your time, and I hope to hear back from you soon.

Respectfully,

3. Academic application letter sample

Gregory Allen Department of English AB University Syracuse, NY

Tuesday, March 26, 2024

Dear Mr Allen,

During my undergraduate studies in animation, I discovered — quite unexpectedly — a passion for writing, and specifically writing for film and television. Although up until that point I had believed myself to be a VFX artist in the making, the discovery caused me to reconsider. Today, I am writing to express my interest in the Creative Writing MA program at AB University.

During my final year at Arts College, I produced a screenplay for a short film, and found that setting up the scene and creating a whole new world in words was far more fascinating to me than trying to recreate it by moving around and rendering pixels on a screen. I received the highest mark out of everyone on my course for that piece of writing; and that was followed by my screenwriting professor’s recommendation: the way he spoke about AB University’s history and faculty removed any sort of doubt from my mind. It all became clear: this was to be my new path.

I have attached some writing samples, as per the application guidelines: my final-year screenplay as well as two pieces of prose I wrote in my free time. I hope that you may consider my application for a spot on the Creative Writing course.

I look forward to hearing back from you. Thank you for your time!

Best wishes,

Things to remember

From writing the first draft of your application letter to editing it and adding the final touches, remember to do the following:

1. Do your research

Research is one of the most important steps when it comes to  job searching ; you need to make sure that you know all there is about the organization you’re targeting and you should have a clear understanding of what their company culture is like.

2. Don’t forget to proofread

This goes without saying, but never send your application letter off without proofreading it. With so many readily available editing tools online, there’s no excuse for a careless typo or wordy sentences. Grammarly and Hemmingway are two of the most popular programs to help you perfect your writing.

3. Use their style of writing

You can usually guess a company’s style of writing from their website and publications. So, it’s important to try and keep your letter in line with this so they can see that you’re a real match for the position and that they’d be silly to not invite you for an interview.

Final thoughts

Whether you go to write a cover letter or an application letter, or even to put together a portfolio for a prospective employer to see, the same thing applies: everything you include must be related to the position you’re hoping to land.

So, before you’ve started writing, take time to consider which of your skills, qualities and achievements best portray you as a strong candidate , and how you can best convey your interest in (and suitability for) the company as a whole.

Have you ever written an application letter before? Do you have any other tips to share with fellow jobseekers? Leave us a comment in the comments section below!

Originally published on August 21, 2018. Updated by Electra Michaelidou.

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sample of an official job application letter

  • Cover Letter

How to Write an Application Letter—Examples & Guide

Embarking on the job-hunting journey? A great letter of application can be your golden ticket to stand out in the competitive job market. Learn how to write one with our guide.

Mariusz Wawrzyniak

Here we go again… Another job posting, another letter. This time it’s a letter of application.

But don’t worry. You’ve probably written dozens of application letter already, you just don’t know it yet. After you read this article, you’ll never sigh at the sight of another letter of application.

This guide will show you:

  • An application letter sample for any position that’s better than most others out there.
  • Step-by-step guide on how to write an application letter for a job.
  • Tips on setting the proper letter of application format.

Save hours of work and get a cover letter like this. Pick a template, fill it in. Quick and easy. Choose from 20+ cover letter templates and download your cover letter now.

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Want to learn more about job application documents? Read our other cover letter guides:

  • Cover Letter for a Career Change
  • Cover Letter for Non-Profits
  • Cover Letter for Retail Jobs
  • Cover Letter Guide for IT Positions
  • Entry-Level Cover Letter Example
  • General Cover Letter Guide
  • Internship Cover Letter
  • Marketing Cover Letter Guide
  • Recent Graduate Cover Letter Sample
  • What Does a Cover Letter Look Like?

What Is a Letter of Application?

A letter of application is intended to introduce yourself and explain why you're interested in the position. Also known as a cover letter, it is sent with your resume when applying for a job. An application letter allows you to showcase your qualifications and skills alongside your enthusiasm.

Now let’s look at what a professional letter of application looks like:

Letter of Application Example

Vinícius Cunha Pinto

UX Researcher

2496 Bassell Avenue

Little Rock, AR 72201

501-626-5744

viní[email protected]

linkedin.com/in/viní-cunha-pinto

Sherwood, 1/10/2021

Mr. Antonio Strife

Hewlett-Packard Company

232 Pumice Dr

Sherwood, AR 72120

Dear Mr. Strife

I am excited to apply for the UX researcher position at Hewlett-Packard. As a UX researcher with over six years of experience in the field, I am confident that my expertise and passion for user-centered design make me an excellent candidate for this role. In my previous position at AG Group, I increased user engagement with our app by 45%.

Another one of my biggest accomplishments was leading a research project identifying several usability issues in our company's mobile app. I worked with the design team to create solutions to these issues, resulting in a 30% increase in user satisfaction. I was also responsible for conceptualizing, designing, and developing marketing pages for our company’s website and directly contributed to over 60% increase in revenue. Furthermore, I am skilled in conducting user interviews, usability tests, surveys, and data analysis and proficient in various research tools, such as Optimal Workshop, UserTesting.com, and Qualtrics.

I am particularly drawn to Hewlett-Packard because of its reputation for innovation and commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology. Your company's dedication to delivering cutting-edge solutions aligns perfectly with my passion for staying at the forefront of UX research and design. I am eager to bring my skills and insights to a dynamic organization like Hewlett-Packard, where I can contribute to pioneering advancements in user experiences. The collaborative and forward-thinking culture at Hewlett-Packard resonates with my professional values, and I am enthusiastic about the prospect of contributing to your team's success.

Working for Hewlett-Packard would be a wonderful opportunity for me. I would love to join your team and contribute to creating exceptional user experiences for your customers. Can we schedule a meeting, so I can tell you more about the UX solutions I can bring to your company?

P.S.— I’d also love to tell you about how I worked with the development team to implement design changes that reduced user errors by 75%.

Using this example, let’s now go through the entire process of writing a letter of application.

How to Write a Letter of Application

Follow the instructions below to create a professional yet simple job application letter:

1. Use the Right Format of an Application Letter for a Job

Before your job application reaches the recruiter, it’ll most likely need to go through an automated ATS scan . And to ensure everything is read correctly, your application letter requires clear and clean formatting.

To format your letter of application correctly, follow these guidelines:

  • Use the same font you chose for your resume .
  • Left-align all content.
  • Keep your application letter length to only one page.
  • Just like with your resume margins , set them to 1-inch on your job application letter as well.
  • Leave ample white space by using double-spacing between paragraphs and setting line spacing to 1.15.

Also, save your letter of application for a job in a PDF format unless instructed otherwise. This will keep your formatting and the general layout of the document intact.

Expert Hint : You may think that sending just your resume is enough. But in truth, that’s a very wrong way to think. Letters of application are essential in the job market, so don’t risk losing to other candidates just because you didn’t write one.

2. Address Your Letter of Application Properly

Addressing an application letter is simple. Firstly, include your contact information in the header of the application letter : 

  • Full address
  • Telephone number
  • LinkedIn profile (optional)
  • Current date

Then, put your hiring manager’s and their company’s info underneath it. Use:

  • Recruiter’s full name
  • Recruiter’s job title
  • Company’s name
  • Company’s address

And lastly, greet your hiring manager by using an honorific (Mr. Ms.) and their full name. Take a look at the example below to visualize:

Letter of Application Example—Address

Mr. James Stipe

There is one challenge waiting for you in this first part. Finding out the name of your recruiter. If the company put it out in the job ad, you’re golden. If it didn’t, there are a couple of ways to try and discover it on your own. You can check the company’s website or LinkedIn profile for starters. If you still drew a blank, reach out to an employee of the company and ask them. LinkedIn makes it super easy.

If everything fails, you’ll have to resort to a generalized salutation. “Dear Hiring Manager” is a great solution.

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3. Open Up With an Enticing First Paragraph

Next up, you need to capture the recruiter’s attention. So put your best foot forward in the first paragraph.

This is how the letter of application should start :

  • Show you’re enthusiastic about applying for the position.
  • Present your most impressive professional work achievement .
  • Identify the company and the position you’re applying for by name.

Here’s what it looks like:

Sample Application Letter for a Job—First Paragraph

I am writing to apply for the UX Researcher/Developer position advertised on your website. I have over 6 years of experience and am skilled in various UX research methods. Furthermore, I have a proven track of increasing user engagement.

In theory, both of these examples present the same candidate. But the difference in said presentation makes the second sample bite the dust.

Candidate #2 doesn’t check any of the aforementioned boxes, and it shows. He has no enthusiasm, no measurable achievement to catch the eye, and he doesn’t even mention the company by name, meaning he probably sent the same letter of application to hundreds of other jobs.

But not everyone can show a work achievement straight away. If you’re applying for your first job, focus on the two other aspects of your application letter’s first paragraph. Like so:

Example of an Application Letter with No Experience—First Paragraph

As a recent graduate in Human-Computer Interaction, I am excited to apply for the Junior UX Researcher position at Hewlett-Packard. I have been following your company's work for some time now, and I am impressed with your commitment to improving the user experience through extensive research and testing. As a passionate and detail-oriented researcher, I am confident that my skills and knowledge will make me an excellent fit for your team.

And that’s a great way to introduce yourself when writing a letter of application with no experience .

Expert Hint: Job application letters build a connection with the employer by introducing yourself in a good light. One very effective tactic is to research the company’s mission and values and refer to them in your letter of application.

4. Prove Your Expertise in the Main Body

Now that you’ve hooked the recruiter, it’s time to reel them in. Metaphorically, of course.

There are a lot of different things you can include in a letter of application . But all of them must share a certain similarity. They have to be relevant to the position you’re applying for. And that’s especially true in the main body section of the job application letter. Why? Because here, you’ll list some enticing work achievements and work skills you possess.

You can see this in the following example:

How to Write an Application Letter—Main Body Section Example

I have experience working in UX research and am confident in learning and adapting quickly to new technologies and methodologies. I can use many tools, including MS Excel. Outside my many UX accomplishments, I have also worked as a sales representative, furthering my vast skills portfolio.

See what lack of relevance and quantified achievements do to a letter of application? The second candidate could best fit the position, but he will not get picked with that paragraph.

On the other hand, in the first example, relevance guides our candidate. He doesn’t bother talking about their previous job in a different field. Instead, he presents UX skills and accomplishment statements and, most of all, quantifies them for maximum impact.

Also, it’s a letter of application . So tell the recruiter why you want to apply to this specific company. Show a cultural fit, mention your values, and talk about what you can bring to the company.

But then again… How does someone without experience tackle the second paragraph of a job application letter? They should show their drive towards the specific position and the steps they have already undertaken towards their goal. Just like that:

Sample Letter of Application for a Job With No Experience—Main Body

During my studies, I worked on several UX research projects, including conducting usability testing, creating personas, and analyzing user feedback. In addition, I have completed a certification in UX Research and Design, where I learned how to conduct user interviews, design research studies, and analyze data. I am proficient in various research methodologies and tools such as surveys, A/B testing, heat maps, and user flow analysis.

And despite the lack of measured achievements, this candidate is dedicated to becoming a UX specialist. No employer is going to have any doubts about whether he will be a driven employee at their company.

Expert Hint: As tempting as it may be, never copy your resume into the letter of application. Of course, you can show one or two of the same things but focus more on presenting other achievements and skills.

5. Finish Your Application Letter With a Clear CTA

Do you know the saying, “It’s not important how you start, it’s important how you finish?” Well, in letters of application, that’s not really a good saying, as you do need a strong start, but a strong finish is just as crucial.

So don’t screw up by including a non-ending “looking forward to hearing from you” or “thank you for considering my application.” Way too many candidates finish their letters of job application this way, and it just doesn’t work.

It’s uninspiring and boring.

Instead, do it like this: 

Ending a Job Application Letter—Sample

If you have time, we could maybe schedule a meeting or something? I want to know more about the benefits your company offers

See? The first one sounds way better than one of those overused cliché lines. At the same time, example number 2 makes the candidate look like an entitled worker with no drive.

Pay special attention to the call to action. You should always nudge the recruiter into scheduling an interview with you. It may sound silly, but it’s an effective tactic. Additionally, when signing off, write “Sincerely” before your name. It’s the best way to close off a letter of application formally.

And as you’ve probably noticed, the candidate added a postscript. What’s the deal with that? It’s a completely optional thing, so don’t stress over it. If you want to add a P.S., remember to do so with a completely unique achievement you have not presented in your resume or application letter. If you don’t have anything jaw-dropping, you’re better off not adding a postscript to the end of your letter of job application .

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Here’s a summary of what’s important when writing a letter of application for a job:

  • Format your application letter correctly to make it easily readable.
  • Refer to the hiring manager and the company by name . Personalization earns you a lot of points in the recruiting process.
  • Put information relevant to the position throughout all sections of the application letter.
  • Always refer to the keywords found in the job ad and the company’s values.
  • Finish off with a call to action , and add a postscript if you have more to show.

Did you enjoy reading about how to write a letter of application? Do you have any questions about job application letters? Or maybe additional tips to make one stand out even more? Leave a comment. We’ll be happy to engage in a conversation!

Mariusz Wawrzyniak

Mariusz is a career expert with a background in quality control & economics. With work experience in FinTech and a passion for self-development, Mariusz brings a unique perspective to his role. He’s dedicated to providing the most effective advice on resume and cover letter writing techniques to help his readers secure the jobs of their dreams.

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Writing a Winning Job Application Letter: Tips and Examples

sample of an official job application letter

A job application letter, also known as a cover letter, is a formal letter that accompanies your resume and introduces you to a potential employer. The purpose of a job application letter is to highlight your qualifications, experience, and skills that make you the perfect candidate for the job. It also helps employers understand your personality, work ethic, and how you plan to contribute to their organization.

Importance of Customization

One of the key factors that can make or break your job application letter is how well you customize it to the specific job you are applying for. Employers want to see that you have taken the time to research their company and understand what they are looking for in a candidate. Customizing your letter also shows that you are genuinely interested in the job and that you are willing to put in the extra effort to stand out from other applicants.

Brief Overview of Key Sections

While job application letters can vary slightly depending on the job and industry, they typically contain four key sections:

Introduction: This section should include a brief introduction, the job you are applying for, and how you found out about it.

Qualifications: In this section, you should discuss your qualifications and experience that make you a good fit for the job. Be sure to tailor this section to the specific job requirements to show that you have the skills they are looking for.

Skills: Here, you should highlight your relevant skills and how they apply to the job. Use examples from your past experiences to demonstrate your proficiency in each skill.

Closing: The closing paragraph should thank the employer for considering your application and provide contact information for them to reach you.

In this article, we will dive into each of these sections in more detail and provide tips and examples to help you write a winning job application letter.

Understand the Job Requirements

To write a winning job application letter, it is important to thoroughly understand the job requirements. This involves analyzing the job description and understanding the needs of the employer, as well as tailoring your letter to attract the specific employer.

A. Analyzing the Job Description

The job description provides you with valuable information about the position you are applying for. It outlines the required skills, qualifications, and responsibilities of the job. By analyzing the job description, you can determine if the role is a good fit for your experience and qualifications.

When analyzing the job description, it is important to pay attention to key phrases and requirements mentioned. These can give you insight into the priorities of the employer and allow you to tailor your application to meet those priorities.

B. Understanding the Needs of the Employer

To write a winning job application letter, it is also essential to understand the needs of the employer. This means researching the company and the industry to get a better understanding of the company culture, mission, and values. It also means understanding the desired outcome of the position and how you can address the employer’s needs.

One way to convey your understanding of the employer’s needs is to highlight relevant accomplishments in your application letter. By showing how you have successfully addressed similar challenges in the past, you can demonstrate your potential value to the employer.

C. Tailoring the Letter to Attract Specific Employer

Finally, to write a winning job application letter, it is important to tailor your letter to attract the specific employer. This means using language and examples that relate to the specific company and its values. It also means customizing your application letter to the specific job and its requirements.

To tailor your letter, take the time to research the company and its values. This can involve reviewing their website, social media, and other online resources. By addressing the specific needs and values of the employer, you can show that you are invested in the position and the company.

To write a winning job application letter, it is important to understand the job requirements, analyze the job description, understand the needs of the employer, and tailor the letter to attract the specific employer. By doing so, you can craft an application that stands out from the competition and showcases your value as a candidate.

Research the Company and Industry

Before writing your job application letter, it’s important to research the company and industry thoroughly to increase your chances of writing a winning letter. Here are three key areas to focus on:

A. Understanding the Mission, Vision, and Values of the Company

Make sure you take the time to research the company’s mission, vision, and values. This will help you understand the company’s goals and the qualities they look for in employees. You can find this information on the company’s website, social media pages or company annual report.

Incorporate the values and mission statement of the company into your job application letter. This highlights your alignment with the company culture, and how your beliefs and goals match that of the organization’s.

B. Identifying the Company’s Competition

Once you have an understanding of the company, you need to identify the company’s competition. Knowing who the competitors are can help you understand the industry as well as the company’s market share position.

List the company’s competitors in your job application letter and briefly explain how you see the company’s strengths overcoming the competitors’ weaknesses.

C. Industry Trends and How to Address Them

The final area to focus on when researching the company and industry is identifying current industry trends and how these trends may impact the company’s future. Use reputable sources to gather trends and predictions about the industry. This will also show the recruiter that you are not only familiar with their industry, but are engaging in informed discussion and contributing to innovative solutions.

Incorporate industry trends into your job application letter and showcase the ideas and innovations you bring, how leveraging them can enhance the company’s position and how you can contribute to any current and future challenges, for which the potential employer has yet to find a solution.

By researching and incorporating the above areas into your job application letter, you demonstrate a genuine interest in the organization and showcase clear understanding, innovative thought and how your expertise can improve the company’s performance.

Know Your Strengths and Skills

When writing a job application letter, it’s crucial to understand your unique selling proposition, relevant experience, and transferrable skills. This information will help you stand out from the other applicants and potentially land the job of your dreams.

A. Identifying Your Unique Selling Proposition

Your unique selling proposition (USP) is what sets you apart from the other candidates. It could be a specific skill, experience or personality trait that aligns with the company’s values and job requirements. Start by analyzing the job description and researching the company culture to identify what makes you an ideal candidate for the role.

Once you have identified your USP, use it as the main selling point in your job application letter. Highlight your strengths and skills and explain how they align with the job requirements and the company’s values. This will show the hiring manager that you are not just another candidate, but someone who has something valuable to offer.

B. Highlighting Your Relevant Experience and Accomplishments

Your work experience and achievements are essential in demonstrating your abilities and suitability for the job. When crafting your job application letter, focus on highlighting your relevant experience and accomplishments. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you have contributed in previous roles and how those skills could be applied to the new role you are applying for.

Be sure to use metrics whenever possible as numbers are a great way to showcase your achievements. For example, if you were able to increase sales revenue by 20% in your previous role, mention it in your letter. This will give the hiring manager a clear understanding of your capabilities and how they align with the job requirements.

C. Understanding How to Leverage Transferrable Skills

Transferrable skills are those abilities that you have gained from your previous experiences that are not necessarily related to the job you are applying for. They can be valuable in demonstrating your adaptability and ability to learn quickly.

When discussing your transferrable skills in your job application letter, highlight how they could be applied to the new role you are applying for. For example, if you have strong communication skills, explain how you could use that to effectively collaborate with team members and clients.

By understanding and leveraging your unique selling proposition, relevant experience and accomplishments, and transferrable skills, you can write a job application letter that stands out from the crowd. Remember to tailor your letter to the job requirements and company culture to increase your chances of success.

Address Gaps in Your Resume or Experience

When applying for a job, it’s important to consider any gaps in your resume or experience that might be a red flag for hiring managers. Addressing these gaps upfront can demonstrate your accountability and willingness to take ownership of your shortcomings.

A. Taking ownership of failings

If you have gaps in your work history or experience, don’t try to hide or make excuses for them. Instead, take ownership of any failings and show that you’re actively working to improve yourself. This could involve taking courses, pursuing certifications, or volunteering in relevant areas to gain hands-on experience.

B. Finding a workaround for unfilled requirements

Sometimes a job posting requires specific qualifications or experience that you don’t have. In these cases, it’s important to find a workaround that demonstrates your ability to still meet the employer’s needs. This could involve highlighting related experience or transferable skills that could compensate for the missing requirement. Alternatively, it might involve offering to take on additional training or work with a mentor to acquire the missing knowledge.

C. Highlighting transferable skills to counter an irrelevant job background

When applying for a job in a new industry or field, it’s common to have a background that might not seem directly relevant. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean you’re unqualified for the role. By highlighting transferable skills, such as leadership, problem-solving, or communication, you can demonstrate your ability to adapt to new situations and learn quickly.

Addressing gaps in your resume or experience is an important aspect of writing a winning job application letter. By taking ownership of your failings, finding workarounds for unfilled requirements, and highlighting transferable skills, you can position yourself as a strong candidate and increase your chances of landing the job you want.

Crafting an Attention-grabbing Opening Paragraph

In the competitive job market, first impressions matter. The opening paragraph of your job application letter is your opportunity to make a positive and lasting impression on potential employers. In this section, we’ll explore the importance of crafting an attention-grabbing opening paragraph and provide tips and examples on how to do so.

A. Importance of First Impressions

Studies show that it takes less than 30 seconds for a recruiter or hiring manager to form an initial impression of a job candidate. This means that your opening paragraph is a critical component of your job application letter. Your goal is to capture the employer’s interest and convince them to continue reading.

B. Creative and Engaging Opening Lines

One effective way to capture the employer’s attention is by starting your letter with a creative and engaging opening line. This can be a quote, a personal story, a relevant statistic, or a bold statement. The key is to be authentic and genuine while still standing out from other applicants.

C. Strategies for Catching the Employer’s Attention

Beyond the opening line, there are several strategies you can use to further capture the employer’s attention. These include highlighting relevant skills and experience, demonstrating enthusiasm for the position and company, and connecting your qualifications to the job requirements.

By following these tips and examples, you can craft an attention-grabbing opening paragraph that sets you apart from the competition and piques the employer’s interest.

Highlighting Your Accomplishments

When it comes to writing a winning job application letter, highlighting your accomplishments is crucial. This allows potential employers to see the proven results that you can bring to their organization. Here are a few tips on how to effectively highlight your accomplishments:

A. Demonstrating Achievements in Previous Roles

One of the most effective ways to demonstrate your achievements is by highlighting your accomplishments in your previous roles. This shows that you have a track record of success and can bring that success to your next job. When highlighting your achievements, make sure to focus on results, not just responsibilities. Instead of stating that you managed a team, highlight the specific results that you achieved as a team leader.

For example, instead of saying, “Managed a team of 10 employees,” you could say, “Led a team of 10 employees to achieve a 25% increase in sales within the first quarter.” This shows the impact you had in your previous role and gives potential employers an idea of what you can achieve in their organization.

B. Using Data to Support Accomplishments

Using data to support your accomplishments is a powerful way to illustrate the impact you had in your previous roles. This could include data such as sales figures, customer satisfaction ratings, or employee retention rates. When using data, make sure to include specific numbers and percentages.

For example, instead of saying, “Improved customer satisfaction,” you could say, “Increased customer satisfaction ratings by 15% through implementing a new customer service training program.” This demonstrates the impact you had on the organization and the value you can bring to a potential employer.

C. Highlighting Relevant Certifications and Awards

Another way to highlight your accomplishments is by showcasing any relevant certifications or awards you have received. This shows that you have taken the time to invest in your professional development and have been recognized for your achievements.

When highlighting certifications and awards, make sure to explain why they are relevant to the job you are applying for. For example, if you are applying for a marketing position, highlighting your Google Analytics certification would be relevant as it demonstrates your analytics skills.

Highlighting your accomplishments is a crucial part of writing a winning job application letter. By demonstrating your achievements in previous roles, using data to support your accomplishments, and highlighting relevant certifications and awards, you can show potential employers the value you can bring to their organization.

Showcasing Your Writing Skills

When it comes to writing a winning job application letter, showcasing your exceptional writing skills is crucial to increase your chances of getting hired. Employers often look for applicants who have a way with words, can express themselves clearly, and can craft compelling content that leaves a lasting impression. Here are several ways to showcase your writing skills:

A. Highlighting experience in writing

One of the most effective ways to showcase your writing skills is to highlight your experience as a writer. This can include previous work experience in writing-related fields such as journalism, marketing, or content creation. If you have a writing degree, mention it. You can also share published articles or blog posts that you have written to demonstrate your skills in action. Highlighting relevant experience shows that you have the skills needed to excel in the role you are applying for.

B. Incorporating keywords

Incorporating keywords relevant to the job posting can also help showcase your writing skills. Employers often use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to scan resumes and cover letters for specific keywords related to the position. By including these keywords, you can increase your chances of getting past the initial screening process and showcase your understanding of industry-specific language.

C. Proper grammar, spelling, and tone

Finally, it’s essential to ensure that your writing exhibits proper grammar, spelling, and tone. Errors in these areas can undercut the impact of your application letter and send the wrong message to your potential employer. Take the time to proofread your cover letter and resume carefully, and have someone else review them too. Double-check for proper punctuation, spelling errors, and that your tone fits the professional context.

Showcasing your writing skills is critical when applying for jobs, particularly those that require excellent communication skills. Highlighting relevant experience, incorporating keywords, and ensuring proper grammar, spelling, and tone are strategies that can help set you apart from other applicants and make a lasting impression on potential employers.

Using Power Words and Phrases

When writing a job application letter, it is essential to use powerful words and phrases that can help you stand out from the crowd. Here are some tips to help you select the right words:

A. Selecting Strong Action Words

Action words can help demonstrate your skills and experience effectively. Use verbs that showcase your achievements and contributions to your previous roles. For instance, rather than saying you “assisted” your team, use words such as “led,” “managed,” or “initiated” to emphasize your role in driving projects and initiatives forward.

B. Avoiding Common Clichés and Buzzwords

Although buzzwords and clichés may seem tempting, they could potentially undermine the impact of your letter. Instead of using cookie-cutter phrases like “I am a team player,” try to use specific examples to illustrate your ability to work collaboratively. Also, avoid jargon that may not be familiar to the reader and opt for straightforward language that can be easily understood.

C. Crafting Impactful and Persuasive Sentences

To make your letter more impactful and persuasive, use language that emphasizes your strengths and accomplishments. Start sentences with action words and focus on the results you have achieved. Also, be specific and illustrate your points with concrete examples that demonstrate your value to the prospective employer.

When writing your job application letter, make sure to choose powerful words that demonstrate your expertise and experience effectively. Avoid using clichés and buzzwords and instead focus on crafting persuasive and impactful sentences that showcase your strengths and contributions. By following these principles, you can create a compelling letter that increases your chances of landing the job you want.

Formatting and Presentation of Your Job Application Letter

When it comes to writing a winning job application letter, the presentation and formatting of the letter are just as important as the content. Here are some tips to ensure your letter looks professional and polished:

A. Ensure consistency in formatting

Make sure your letter has a consistent format throughout. This means using the same font and font size for the entire letter. Also, ensure that the margins and spacing are consistent from beginning to end.

B. Proper use of fonts, margins, and spacing

Use a standard font like Times New Roman or Arial, in a legible size (such as 11pt or 12pt). Be sure to use proper spacing between paragraphs and section headers. It’s important to have enough white space to make the letter easy to read, but not so much that it takes up unnecessary space.

C. Guidelines on length of the letter

Longer letters can seem rambling and may deter the hiring manager from reading the whole thing. Focus on the most important points and make them clear and succinct. Remember, your goal is to make a strong case for yourself as a candidate, not overwhelm the reader with information.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your job application letter looks professional, polished, and focused on what matters most – your qualifications for the job.

Sample Job Application Letter

Writing a winning job application letter is important if you’re looking to impress the hiring manager and land your dream job. In this section of the article, we’ll walk through a sample job application letter, analyze its strong points, and provide strategies to improve it.

A. Walk Through a Sample Job Application Letter

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the position of Marketing Manager at ABC Company, as advertised on [job board]. With over [number] years of experience in the marketing industry, I believe I have the skills and knowledge to succeed in this role and make a significant contribution to your team.

During my time at XYZ Company, I was responsible for developing and executing successful marketing campaigns that exceeded client expectations and resulted in increased ROI. My experience in digital marketing, social media management, and content creation have prepared me well for this role. I am highly adaptable, and I have a proven track record of implementing innovative strategies to achieve business objectives.

In addition, I am a strong communicator and collaborator, and I work well in cross-functional teams. I am confident that my skills and experience make me a strong candidate for the role of Marketing Manager at ABC Company.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

B. Analyzing the Strong Points in the Letter

The sample job application letter has several strong points:

  • The candidate clearly expresses their interest in the position and summarizes their skills and experience in the marketing industry.
  • The letter highlights the candidate’s successful track record in executing marketing campaigns and achieving business objectives.
  • The candidate demonstrates their adaptability and ability to implement innovative strategies.
  • The letter emphasizes the candidate’s communication and collaboration skills.

C. Strategies to Improve the Letter

To improve the sample job application letter, consider the following strategies:

  • Start with a strong opening sentence that grabs the hiring manager’s attention, such as a personal anecdote or a statement about the company’s mission.
  • Use specific examples of your achievements and accomplishments to demonstrate your value to the company.
  • Customize your letter to the specific job and company by conducting research and referencing relevant company initiatives or values.
  • Show enthusiasm and a willingness to learn by expressing interest in the company’s future projects or goals.

By implementing these strategies, you can enhance your job application letter and increase your chances of landing an interview with your dream company.

Writing a winning job application letter requires attention to detail, strong communication skills, and a clear understanding of the hiring company’s needs and values. By following these tips and analyzing examples such as the one above, you can take your job application letter to the next level and stand out from the competition.

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sample of an official job application letter

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  • Letter Of Application

49 Best Letter Of Application Samples (+”How to Write” Guide)

Almost all adults have written a letter of application when applying for a job that suits their qualifications. At times, the feedbacks could be extremely frustrating and it may not even be your qualifications that come into question. If the substance of your letter of application sample is okay, then it must have been the format. Therefore, you must learn all that you can to compose an effective job application template .

Table of Contents

  • 1 Letter Of Application Templates
  • 2 What is a letter of application?
  • 3 Letter Of Application Samples
  • 4 Writing a letter of application
  • 5 Application Letter Examples
  • 6 Practical tips to keep in mind when writing your letter of application
  • 7 Job Application Templates

Letter Of Application Templates

Free letter of application 01

What is a letter of application?

A letter of application which is sometimes called a cover letter is a type of document that you send together with your CV or resume. It provides details about your experiences and skills. It also contains detailed information about why you consider yourself the most qualified for the job you’re applying for.

In most application letter examples, you also enumerate reasons with explanations about your interest in the position you want which requires all of your relevant skills. Letters of application inform your prospective employer about your interest in the position, what makes you a worthy contender, and why the employer should choose you.

Letter Of Application Samples

Free letter of application 10

Writing a letter of application

You would compose a letter of application for a variety of purposes which are either domestic or professional. All letter of application samples are generally of the formal type and they follow some predefined format which applies to most types of application letters. It is, therefore, essential to get acquainted with the steps when writing one:

Preparation

  • Get a blank sheet of paper and divide this into two columns. Indicate “Requirements” in one column and “Skills” in the other. Now read the details of the job vacancy very carefully. While doing this, familiarize yourself with the job requirements too.
  • At this point, you should already have a resume which you can compare with the requirements of the job, both in terms of skill and experience. Including these major points relevant to the job provides for you the right and most significant information in your application letter format more efficiently and quickly.
  • Start your job application template by including your contact details at the top. The purpose of this is to make it very easy for the prospective employer to find out exactly who you are and how to contact you. Make sure you use the correct letterhead too.
  • Include the company’s information. After your contact details, you should also provide information about the company of the employer you’re applying to and this includes the name, job title, company name, and the business address. Providing these details gives the impression that you’ve taken some time to compose a customized letter of application to that company.
  • Including this information also shows that you have done extra research about the hiring manager of the position you want. You can always search for the company’s website to find out the hiring manager’s name. Or as an alternative, search for the name of the department head of the department to which you’re applying. If you can’t access either name, it’s still okay to address the application letter to the company’s hiring department.
  • Address the letter to the employee whom you’re writing to. Including this in your application letter format shows that you’re formal enough to begin with an official address. Never address your application letter with the words “ To Whom It May Concern .” This is very generic and informal. It also gives the impression that you didn’t do much research on the company you’re applying to.

Application Letter Examples

Free letter of application 20

Writing the letter of application

  • Write a compelling first paragraph. Write something that draws the interest of your reader, in this case, the hiring manager. Most application letter examples end up in the dust bin because they’re devoid of appeal. To avoid this, treat your first paragraph like a breaking news article by opening with a declarative statement.
  • Inform the reader about your enthusiasm for applying for a position in the company. Demonstrate to the hiring manager about your familiarity with the company’s work and how you would perfectly fit for the position applied for.
  • Mention where you discovered the information about the position you’re applying. Make some calls and research to find out if you have an acquaintance in the company. It’s always great to have a reference on the inside. Don’t hesitate to name drop, especially if the person granted you permission to do so.
  • Elaborate why hiring you will benefit the employer. A job vacancy usually opens when the company has an issue which needs solving. As an applicant, it’s your job to solve this issue among other things.
  • You can refer to your resume where you have enumerated your accomplishments, experiences, and skills. From this, you can use an example or two and elaborate on them. These show that you are very much qualified for the role.
  • Provide a brief summary of your strengths, experience, and qualifications. The second paragraph of your letter should provide a summarized description of your experiences and abilities to demonstrate why you’re the perfect choice for the job.
  • Highlight the most significant parts of your professional career. Although your most recent accomplishments would be a good place for you to start, you might have a past experience which perfectly fits the required qualifications of the job. If you need to dig deeper to prove your worth, then do so.
  • Create an image of yourself which isn’t on your resume. Resumes typically depict what you’ve done during your last assignments or jobs. As an applicant, you would also want the hiring manager to see the person behind these accomplishments.
  • In maybe two or three sentences, express your thoughts on how your previous company has personally made an impact on you and how this dream job application will, in one way, shape your future. Showing this human side of you proves that you are more than the facts printed on paper.

Finish up your application letter

  • Create a brief summary explaining why you are the best candidate for the position in just one sentence. It’s best to end your letter with a polite reminder to your prospective employer why you’re the best applicant for the job and this gesture may earn you an interview. But do this succinctly in just one meaningful sentence.
  • Provide a gentle invitation to reach out to you. Make an invitation to your reader about wanting the chance to speak more about the vacant position. It isn’t redundant to give your contact information again just for emphasis.
  • Also, don’t forget to thank the hiring manager about any consideration that he will make then end the letter with a courteous statement like “looking forward to hearing from you at the earliest convenience” or something equally pleasant.
  • Sign off. This step can, at times, be very frustrating, especially if you don’t know what’s considered appropriate. Using a tone that’s too formal may have a tinge of insincerity and it might not fit the overall style of the letter itself. Just be sincere without sounding offensive, period.
  • Finally, after signing off, write your complete name and affix your signature. If your word processor has been set up for a signature, you may insert this underneath your name. Or you can print out the final version of your letter then affix your signature. For a letter of application sample, a signature is optional.

Free letter of application 30

Practical tips to keep in mind when writing your letter of application

Depending on what it contains, how you prepared it, and how you formatted it, a letter of application can either make you or break you. To make sure that your application letter format will support you, consider the following tips:

  • Get right to the point The first paragraph of your job application template should already state the purpose. Indicate the job you’re applying for, the name of the company, and the source of the job vacancy listing. You can mention why you’re a strong contender for the position but do so in a direct-to-the-point statement.
  • Offer a variety of information Instead of being too technical, tone down your language on a more personal level, not to sound like the contents of your bullet-point resume. An anecdote about your career and work experience will do just fine. Although a resume is a must when applying for a job, the application letter should highlight relevant information which your resume cannot do.
  • Make a good case for yourself The main objective of your letter of application is to land a job interview which hopefully will get you a job offer. A good application letter can achieve both goals for you. Another way to enhance your chances is by offering details regarding your experiences and job background which demonstrates why you’re a very qualified candidate. Expound on how your previous jobs have prepared you adequately for the position and what good you can do with said position and the company as well. Highlight your strengths.
  • Close the letter with relevant details Don’t forget to include a note of thanks towards the end of the letter to show your appreciation for considering you for the position. Again, provide your contact details and state how you plan to follow up on your letter. This gives the impression on your genuine interest for the position.

Job Application Templates

Free letter of application 41

More Templates

Job Abandonment Letter

Job Abandonment Letter

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Referral Letters

Two Weeks Notice Letters

Two Weeks Notice Letters

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Employee Evaluation Templates

90 Day Review Templates

90 Day Review Templates

Teacher Resignation Letters

Teacher Resignation Letters

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Sample Cover Letter for a Job Application

sample of an official job application letter

What Is an Application Letter?

What to include in your application letter, tips for writing a cover letter, cover letter sample and template, email cover letter sample.

  • How to Send an Email Application

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Alex Dos Diaz / The Balance

What's the best way to write a letter to apply for a job? Your letter should detail your specific qualifications for the position and the skills you would bring to the employer. What’s most important is to show the employer that you’re a perfect match for the job.

Your job application letter is an opportunity to highlight your most relevant qualifications and experience. An effective cover letter will enhance your application, showcase your achievements, and increase your chances of landing an interview.

Review what to include in a job application letter, tips for writing that will get your application noticed, and examples of cover letters and email messages to send when applying for a job.

Key Takeaways

  • An application letter accompanies a resume and may be uploaded to a job portal, sent via email, or even sent by postal mail, depending on the employer’s requirements.
  • Application letters are an ideal way to show your interest in a job and highlight your most relevant skills.
  • It’s important to match your letter to the job description and show the employer you have the qualifications they are seeking.

A   letter of application, also known as a  cover letter , is a document sent with your resume to provide additional information about your skills and experience to an employer. Your letter of application is intended to provide detailed information on why you are an ideal candidate for the job.

Your application letter should let the employer know what position you are applying for, what makes you a strong candidate, why they should select you for an interview, and how you will follow up.

Effective application letters explain the reasons for your interest in the specific organization and identify the most relevant skills that qualify you for the job.

Unless an employer specifically requests a job application letter sent by postal mail, most cover letters today are sent by email or attached as a file in an online application tracking system.

As with all cover letters, a job application letter is divided into sections:

  • The heading includes your name and contact information.
  • A  greeting  addressed to a specific person, if possible.
  • The introduction includes why the applicant is writing.
  • The body discusses your relevant qualifications and what you have to offer the employer.
  • The close thanks the reader and provides contact information and follow-up details.
  • Your  signature to end the letter .

Here’s how to ensure your application supports your resume, highlights your most relevant qualifications, and impresses the hiring manager.

Get off to a direct start.  In your first paragraph, explain why you are writing. Mention the job title, company name, and where you found the job listing. While you can also briefly mention why you are a strong candidate, this section should be short and to the point.

Offer something different than what's in your resume. You can make your language a bit more personal than in your resume bullet points, and you can tell a narrative about your work experience and career.

Application letters typically accompany resumes, so your letter should showcase information that your resume doesn't.

Make a good case.  Your first goal with this letter is to progress to the next step: an interview. Your overarching goal, of course, is to get a job offer. Use your application letter to further both causes. Offer details about your experience and background that show why you are a good candidate. How have other jobs prepared you for the position? What would you bring to the role and the company? Use this space to  emphasize your strengths .

Close with all the important details.  Include a thank you at the end of your letter. You can also share your contact information and mention how you will follow up.

This is a sample cover letter.  Download the cover letter template  (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for an email sample.

The Balance

John Donaldson 8 Sue Circle Smithtown, CA 08067 909-555-5555 john.donaldson@email.com

September 6, 2023

George Gilhooley LTC Company 87 Delaware Road Hatfield, CA 08065

Dear Mr. Gilhooley,

I am writing to apply for the programmer position advertised in the Times Union. As requested, I enclose my certification, resume, and references.

The role is very appealing to me, and I believe that my strong technical experience and education make me a highly competitive candidate for this position. My key strengths that would support my success in this position include:

  • I have successfully designed, developed, and supported live-use applications.
  • I strive continually for excellence.
  • I provide exceptional contributions to customer service for all customers.

With a BS degree in computer programming, I have a comprehensive understanding of the full lifecycle of software development projects. I also have experience in learning and applying new technologies as appropriate. Please see my resume for additional information on my experience.

I can be reached anytime via email at john.donaldson@email.com or by phone at 909-555-5555.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to speaking with you about this employment opportunity.

Signature  (only if a hard copy letter)

John Donaldson

The following is a sample email cover letter to send as part of a job application.

Email Application Letter Example

Subject: Colleen Warren - Web Content Manager Position

Dear Hiring Manager,

I'm writing to express my interest in the Web Content Manager position listed on Monster.com. I have experience building large, consumer-focused, health-based content sites. While much of my experience has been in the business world, I understand the social value of this sector, and I am confident that my business experience will be an asset to your organization.

My responsibilities have included the development and management of website editorial voice and style, editorial calendars, and the daily content programming and production for various websites.

I have worked closely with health care professionals and medical editors to provide the best possible information to a consumer audience of patients. I have also helped physicians use their medical content to write user-friendly and easily comprehensible text.

Experience has taught me how to build strong relationships with all departments in an organization. I have the ability to work within a team, as well as cross-team. I can work with web engineers to resolve technical issues and implement technical enhancements. 

I am confident working with development departments to implement design and functional enhancements, monitor site statistics, and conduct search engine optimization.

Thank you for your consideration.

Colleen Warren colleen.warren@email.com 555-123-1234 www.linked.com/colleenwarren

How to Send an Email Application Letter

If sending your cover letter via email, list your name and the job title you are applying for in the  subject line  of the email:

Colleen Warren - Web Content Manager Position

Include your contact information in your email signature but don't list the employer's contact information.

Do you have to write a cover letter when you apply for a job?

Some employers require cover letters. If they do, it will be mentioned in the job posting. Otherwise, it’s optional but it can help your chances of securing an interview. A cover letter gives you a chance to sell yourself to the employer, showcase your qualifications, and explain why you are a perfect candidate for the job.

How can you use a cover letter to show you’re a qualified candidate?

One of the easiest ways to show an employer how you’re qualified for a job is to make a list of the requirements listed in the job posting and match them to your resume . Mention your most relevant qualifications in your cover letter, so the hiring manager can see, at a glance, that you have the credentials they are looking for.

CareerOneStop. " How Do I Write a Cover Letter? "

How to write an application letter (with example)

Are you ready for a new challenge and a fresh start in your career? An eye-catching application letter is essential when you’re applying for new jobs, if you want to make a great first impression on potential employers.

There’s a process to creating an outstanding application letter. It starts with researching the company and tailoring your letter, and ends with editing and formatting your application in a polished and easy to read way. In this guide, we show you how to write an application letter that highlights your strengths and qualifications relevant to the position. 

Why is a cover letter important?

When you’re job seeking, a compelling application letter will help increase your chances of success. An application letter, also known as a cover letter, serves as your professional introduction to potential employers. It’s your chance to demonstrate your qualifications, skills and excitement for the job.

While your resumé provides a snapshot of your work history and achievements, application letters let you expand on your experiences. They provide an opportunity to highlight specific accomplishments, express your motivation and explain why you’d be the right fit for the job.

What to write in an application letter

The key to a great application letter is in making it complement your resumé. Unlike a resumé, which focuses solely on presenting facts and details, an application letter adds a personal touch to your job application. It lets you tell your professional story, showcase your personality and convey your passion for the industry and the organisation you’re applying at.

The typical application letter consists of several key components. It begins with a traditional letter header, followed by a greeting addressed to the hiring manager or relevant contact. Then there’s the body of the letter, which should be one to three paragraphs long, each addressing different job criteria. After that, there’s a conclusion and a valediction (your sign-off). 

If you find writing an application letter daunting, it might be helpful to download a template as a starting point, or use AI tools to provide an outline for you to personalise. 

Before you start writing, do some research

Start by thoroughly reading and understanding the job description. Take note of the key responsibilities, qualifications and skills required for the role. Pay attention to any keywords or phrases used in the job ad, as these can guide your letter-writing process.

Next, research the company itself. Visit their website, read about their mission, values and recent news and take a look at their social media accounts. You don’t need to do a deep dive into every company you’re applying at, but it does help to have some background knowledge – otherwise, how will you know you want to work there? This includes understanding the type of organisation it is and what your job requirements are likely to be. You might also get a feel for the company culture.

Use the information you’ve gathered to draft a persuasive letter  that shows how your qualifications match with the company’s needs, goals and culture. Highlight any specific experiences, achievements or skills that illustrate why you’d be right for the role.

Formatting a cover letter

When it comes to formatting your application letter, the goal is to make it easy to read. Aim for a simple format that’s clean and uncluttered. Choose a clear and legible font such as Arial, Calibri or Times New Roman – or the same font you used on your resumé . Stick to a font size between 10 and 12 points to ensure readability.

Remember to keep your letter concise, aiming for no more than one page. Use clear, everyday English, avoiding overly technical terms or jargon. And of course, proofread your letter carefully when you’re done, to catch any typos or errors.

The opening paragraph

At the top-left of the page, begin with your contact information, including your name, location, phone number and email address. Include the date on the line below.

Next, address the letter to the hiring manager or the appropriate recipient, using a formal greeting such as Dear [Hiring Manager's Name] . If you can’t find the hiring manager's name, you can use a more general term like To whom it may concern .

In the first sentence, clearly state the specific job title and company. This goes at the top so that the recruiter or hiring manager knows immediately what the letter is about.

The body of the letter: Experience, skills and qualifications

The middle of your cover letter should consist of two or three concise paragraphs. Here is where you elaborate on your skills and qualifications, emphasising your achievements and how they align with the requirements of the job.

Think about specific instances where your strengths and skills made an impact at work, providing quantifiable results if you can. For example, you could talk about projects you worked on or goals you met, mentioning real figures if you have them.

With every skill or experience you mention, make sure you connect them to the role’s requirements. Reference key aspects of the job description in your letter. Got no relevant experience? Focus on extracurricular activities and education. 

Lastly, consider highlighting any certifications, awards or professional development courses you’ve completed. These achievements can further enhance your application and show that you’re committed to continuous learning and professional growth.

Above all, be honest about your qualifications. Avoid exaggerating or stretching the truth. If there are areas where you're lacking, acknowledge them and express your willingness to learn and grow.

Use the third paragraph to either mention more skills or experience (if you are applying for a more senior position) or to highlight what interests you about the company and how your passions and aspirations align with the company’s mission and values.

The closing paragraph of your cover letter

The fourth paragraph of your application letter is your conclusion. Here you can give a brief recap of your skills and reaffirm your enthusiasm for the job. You can also include a call to action, like inviting the employer to schedule an interview or visit your online portfolio.

In your conclusion you might also mention any follow-up actions you plan to take. For instance, you might say you’ll be following up with an email within a few weeks. End your letter with a traditional closing sign-off, such as Sincerely or Best regards .

Your closing paragraph should be concise and impactful, without repeating anything information from the middle paragraphs.

Editing and proofreading an application letter.

Before you send your application, proofread it closely to make sure it’s error-free. Typos or grammatical slip ups can look unprofessional and detract from your application, so it’s worth the extra effort to give your letter a once-over.

Consider enlisting the help of a friend or family member to review your letter with fresh eyes. Just showing it to someone else will often help to catch mistakes or areas for improvement that you might have missed. 

You should also cut certain words from your cover letter if you want it to make an impactful first impression. 

Following up after a job application

Following up  after submitting an application letter can show your interest to potential employers. If you don’t hear back from an employer within two weeks, it’s okay to follow up and ask about the status of your application. 

This shows your enthusiasm for the role, tells them you’re still interested, and puts you front of mind. When following up, make sure your communication is professional and polite, and avoid sending multiple follow-up emails within a short timeframe.

Here’s a follow-up email template to give you a head start. 

Tips for job application success

Here are some quick tips for writing application letters that stand out – and some advice for managing the job search process overall. 

  • Tailor your application letter to the job, every time . Create your application letter specifically for the job and company you’re applying to. This means writing a slightly different one, every time. Show how your skills, experience and career aspirations are a good match for the company's needs and goals. Make extra sure you’re sending the right application letter to the right company. 
  • Keep your letter clear and concise. An application letter should be straight to the point and easy to read. Aim for a one-page letter, unless otherwise specified in the job posting. Avoid unnecessary details and focus on the most relevant information to the job ad. Writing a good cover letter shows you have solid written communication skills.
  • Use action verbs and descriptive language. Enhance your application letter by using strong action verbs, for example: instead of I was responsible for a team , write something like, I led a team of 10 high-performing staff .
  • Show thanks and follow up.  After submitting your application, if you haven’t heard back after two weeks, send a follow-up email to the hiring manager. Reiterate your enthusiasm for the position. Use this opportunity to provide additional information or clarify any points in your application.
  • Keep track of your applications. Have a system for keeping track of each application, noting the date you applied, the job title and company, and any notes or communication you’ve had. Mark them up on a calendar or put them into a spreadsheet. This will help you stay on top of your applications and avoid missing any emails that may have fallen through the cracks. A tracking system will also help if you get a call about a job and need to quickly refresh your memory on the details of it. Additionally, keep all your job cover letters in one folder, so you can refer back to them and repurpose them for future applications.

Dos and don’ts

Once you’ve written your application letter, you can refine it even more by applying these dos and don’ts. 

  • Do add a personal touch . Giving your cover letter a personal touch can make it stand out to potential employers. Share a brief anecdote or personal experience that connects you to the role or company. This helps humanise your application and gives the employer insight into your personality and motivations. 
For example, applying for a job in healthcare:  I come from a family of healthcare professionals and grew up with the desire to work in a field where I could make a positive impact on others’ lives.
  • Do tailor your language and tone . Try to match your tone and language to the company’s style (from their official website, rather than social media accounts.) If their website language is very formal, you should mirror that in your cover letter. If their tone of voice is more relaxed, you can take a warmer, more informal tone. Always maintain a professional tone – don’t be too laidback or colloquial.
  • Do take out anything that’s irrelevant.  Is there information in your cover letter that isn’t really related to the job? Consider removing it. Avoid unnecessary details and focus on delivering the most important information only.
  • Do proofread carefully . Having a perfectly edited letter means you have good attention to detail. Run your letter through spell-check and read it aloud to someone, to make sure it flows logically. Get feedback from a mentor or former teacher.
  • Don’t use generic templates without tailoring them . The hiring manager will know if you’ve used a generic application letter. A template is a good starting point, but you need to tailor it to each job opportunity.
  • Don’t exaggerate or misrepresent your qualifications.  Be honest and transparent about your skills and qualifications. Exaggerating or misrepresenting your abilities will likely backfire. An employer will be able to tell if you don’t have the knowledge and abilities you claim to have. 
Example of an honest representation:  I have basic experience with XYZ software, and I'm eager to improve on these skills. In my previous roles, I’ve been able to master new programs quickly.  
Example of an exaggeration:  I have intermediate knowledge of XYZ Analytics software having used this tool in my previous roles.
  • Don’t use industry jargon.  While it’s important to express your knowledge of the industry, avoid using jargon or buzzwords, for example, terms like ROI, strategic initiatives, go-getter, etc. Also consider avoiding technical terms that may not be familiar to the reader.
  • Don’t neglect to follow up. After submitting your application letter, send a follow-up email. Even if you don’t hear back from the employer, you’ll know you made every effort to get your application seen. A negative response from them will also allow you to close that application on your tracker. 

An application letter template

If you’re not confident in drafting a cover letter, it can help to use a professional template. Here’s one you can tailor for your job application. Below this is a sample application letter that puts this structure into practice. 

[Your name here] [Your contact number] [Your email address] [Suburb, State Postcode]
Dear [hiring manager’s name],
 [Intro] I’m writing to express my interest in the [job title] position at [company name]. [Share a personal anecdote if you have one, or briefly explain why you decided to apply for the role.] 
[Body paragraph 1: write about your experience, skills and any specific industry knowledge that could be valuable to the role.   Include any personal attributes that show how you’re an excellent fit for the company. Include one of your main acheivements that directly relates to the role.]
[Body paragraph 2: write about what interests you about the role and about the organisation. You might mention your career goals or the company’s vision and values.]
[Closing paragraph: reaffirm your interest in the position. Include a call to action.]
[Your name]

Sample application letter

Jean-Charles Mak 043X 123-X123 JCmak@g_mail.com
29 February 2025
Dear Ms Lee,
I’m writing to express my interest in the Assistant Manager position at X-Arcade as advertised on SEEK. From a young age, I’ve been passionate about the unique learning, entertainment and social aspects of video gaming. Having spent three years in the games-retail industry, I’m excited by the prospect of contributing to the success of your award-winning company.
Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated exceptional customer service. In my previous role at Tornado Thunder, I managed gaming rooms and was awarded Employee of the Month three times in 18 months. In my team-leadership role at PlayZone, I frequently demonstrated skills in de-escalating situations and problem solving under pressure, as well as cash handling and POS. Additionally, I have more than a decade of experience in gaming technologies across multiple platforms and consoles.
I feel that this role at X-Arcade is the perfect match for my abilities and aspirations. I'm inspired by the company’s approach to sustainability, inclusivity, and its target to become the largest arcade company in Australia by 2025. 
I’m confident that my proven track record and passion make me the ideal person for this position. I’ve attached my resumé for your review, which provides detailed insights into my experience and accomplishments. Thank you for considering my application. I’m excited about the prospect of joining X-Arcade and look forward to hearing from you. 

Writing an application letter takes a little planning and a lot of attention to detail. Personalising your letter and highlighting relevant skills and achievements can help you catch a hiring manager’s attention and get a callback for an interview. Take the time to create a well-written and error-free letter that shows your concientiousness and enthusiasm – desireable qualities in any employee. 

1. What should I include in an application letter?

Your application letter should include the following elements:

  • Your contact information (name, suburb, city, phone number, email)
  • The recipient’s contact information (name, job title, company name, address)
  • A greeting (such as Dear Hiring Manager  or To whom it may concern )
  • An introduction that states the position you’re applying for and expresses your interest in the company
  • Body paragraphs that highlight your relevant skills and experience, and explain why you’re a good fit for the role
  • A closing paragraph that thanks the hiring manager for their time and consideration, and reiterates your interest in the position

2. How long should an application letter be?

An application letter should be concise and to the point, typically no longer than one page. Aim for around three to four paragraphs, or about 300–600 words.

3. How should I address the letter if I don’t know the hiring manager’s name?

If you don’t know the name of the hiring manager, you can address the letter like this: To the Hiring Manager or To whom it may concern .

4. How should I follow up after sending an application letter?

After sending an application letter, it’s a good idea to send a follow-up email. This shows your gratitude for the opportunity and reinforces your interest in the position. You can follow up via email with a brief and professional message.

5. What are some common mistakes to avoid when writing an application letter?

Some common mistakes to avoid when writing an application letter include:

  • Using a generic template without highlighting your unique skills and qualifications
  • Exaggerating or misrepresenting your qualifications
  • Using too much industry jargon, technical terminologies or flowery language
  • Neglecting to proofread your letter before sending it

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How To Write A Job Application Letter (With Examples)

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Find a Job You Really Want In

While applying to jobs, you might be asked to provide a job application letter (sometimes referred to as a cover letter) along with your resume. A resume outlines your professional skills and experience, and a job application letter explains why you are an ideal candidate for the position you’re applying to.

You can think of this as a strictly formatted professional letter that gives hiring managers a sense of your individual qualities prior to a job interview.

This article outlines the essential details and formatting for a job application letter. You’ll learn how to write a concise and engaging letter that will increase your chances of being selected for an interview.

Key Takeaways:

A job application letter can also be known as a cover letter. It is a way to introduce how your skills and experience are a good match for the job.

A job application letter should have your contact information, employer contact information, and a salutation,

A job application application letter should have an introductory paragraph, middle paragraphs that explain your qualifications, and a closing paragraph.

Use specific experiences with quantifiable results to show how your skills were successfully put into action.

Make sure to do your research and edit your letter before submitting.

How To Write A Job Application Letter (With Examples)

Tips for writing a job application letter

Job application letter format, what’s the difference between a cover letter and a job application letter, dos and don’ts for writing a job application letter.

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If you’ve ever asked for advice on the job application process, you’ve likely heard the phrase “sell yourself” a million times over. This means that you should highlight your skills and achievements in a way that will pique a hiring manager ’s interest and make them pause over your application.

You might feel overwhelmed in the grand scheme of online applications, application/ cover letters , letters of intent , and interviews. It’s a lot to balance, especially if you have no experience with any of the things listed.

Remember to take everything one step at a time and review some helpful tips for writing a polished and engaging job application letter:

Tailor the application letter to each job. Your letter should address key points in the job description from the listing, as well as how you can apply your knowledge and experience to the position. You want to emphasize why you are the best candidate for this specific job.

Don’t copy information straight from your resume. Your resume is meant to act as a formal record of your professional experience, education, and accomplishments. The job application letter is where you highlight a few particular details from your resume, and use them to demonstrate how your experience can apply to the job.

Follow the business letter format. These letters have very strict formatting rules, to ensure that they appear as professional to hiring managers. A poorly formatted letter could prevent employers from taking your application seriously.

Proofread. Hiring managers will definitely overlook letters riddled with proofreading mistakes. Read your letter several times over to fix any grammar, punctuation, or spelling errors. You could ask someone else to look over it afterwards or run it through any number of online grammar check programs.

Decide on printing and mailing your letter or sending it in an email. An application letter sent through email requires a subject line that details your purpose for writing— consider “[job title], [your name].” The placement of your contact information is also different depending on the medium . In a hard copy, this goes at the top of your letter, as a header. In an email, it goes below your signature.

The following formatting information can be used as a guideline while drafting your own job application letter, with an example for both a printed/mailed letter and a letter sent through email.

Your contact information

Name Address City, State Zip Code Phone Number Email Address

Employer contact information

First paragraph

Middle paragraphs

This section should be about one to three paragraphs, discussing your various qualifications for the job. This is where you really emphasize what you could bring to the company and how you might fit into the work environment. It might be necessary to do some additional research about the company, to lend more specificity to your letter.

Final paragraph

Ending a cover letter might be a challenge, as you try to wrap up all the details about why you’re the most well-qualified employee on the planet. Let that confidence carry over into your concluding paragraph.

Sincerely/Best,

Job application letter example – printed and mailed

Robin Gomez 37 Southwest Avenue Gainesville, FL 12345 365-123-4567 [email protected] October 20, 2020 Ms. Martha Waters Hiring Manager Blue Swamp Publishing 27 Archer Street Gainesville, FL 67890 Dear Ms. Waters, My resume is attached in response to your advertisement for an editorial assistant . The job description aligns with my interest in editing short fiction, and I believe my experience and skills match what you’re looking for. This past year, I interned with the Editing, Design and Production department at Gator University Press. Over the course of two semesters, I interacted with academic texts at various stages before publication. I’m comfortable proofreading and copyediting manuscripts, as well as adding typesetting codes in Microsoft Word. I have also previously worked on the staff of Writers Student Literary Magazine in Jacksonville, FL , as the Fiction and Website Editor, as well as the head of the Proofreading Team. I played a significant role in the publication of six issues of the magazine, across a two year period (including print and online editions). My qualifications beyond this include experience in team-oriented settings and proficiency in creative and academic writing. I would love the opportunity to speak with you about how I can further contribute to Blue Swamp Publishing! Please feel free to contact me on my cell at 365-123-4567 if you have questions or to set up an interview. Sincerely, Robin Gomez

Job application letter example – emailed

Subject Line: Victoria Caruso – Public Relations Assistant Dear Ms. Janet Wang, I was excited when my colleague Rachel Smith told me that you were looking for a public relations assistant with a background in graphic design. She suggested that I reach out to you about the position, since I believe that my experience aligns well with what you are seeking at Trademark Agency. I worked alongside Rachel as a brand ambassador at a small graphic design company for three years, where I excelled in project management, strategy development, and client communication. This past spring, I played a significant role in designing the website for an up-and-coming multicultural women’s organization and publicizing their first few public events. Along with my experience and personal qualities, I prioritize: Expanding company recognition and designing unique brand details Managing media, press, and public relations issues for companies Developing company communication strategies Please see my attached resume for additional details about my career achievements. I hope to learn more about Trademark Agency’s goals for the coming year. You can contact me on my cell at 319-333-3333 or via email at [email protected]. Sincerely, Victoria Caruso 15th Avenue N Iowa City, Iowa 52240 319-333-3333 [email protected]

A cover letter normally is attached with a resume for a specific job opening, whereas a job application letter can be submitted independently. As already stated, a job application letter can also be known as a cover letter. Format wise, there are a lot of similarities.

However, a job application letter can also be more detailed than a cover a letter. Usually a cover letter acts a quick introduction to a resume when a candidate applies for a specific job opening.

Meanwhile, you can submit a job application letter to a company even if there are no job openings. In this case, you would provide more detail about yourself and your qualifications. Due to this, job application letters tend to be a little longer than the average cover letter.

Now that we’ve gone through the basic formatting for a job application letter and a few examples of what one might look like, how can we condense all that information into digestible pieces?

Refer to these lists of “dos” and “don’ts” to help you through your drafting process:

Explain what you can bring to the company. Consider: how is your experience relevant to what the hiring manager is looking for?

Discuss your skills. Pick out a few skills listed in your resume and describe how you have utilized them in the workplace.

Give specific examples to support your experience. Is there a major project you worked on at your last job ? Did you accomplish something significant in your previous position? Including examples of these things in your letter will add new, specific content to your application and make you more interesting.

Edit your letter thoroughly. Read your letter a couple times, pass it off to someone to look over, run it through an online grammar check. Make sure it’s free of any errors.

Don’t focus on what the job can do for you. While it might seem nice to write that a job is your dream job or that you’ve always wanted to work with a company, it can read as vague flattery. Remember, this letter is about your qualifications.

Don’t list your current or previous job description. Your education and work experience certainly have value, but don’t just list your degrees and places you’ve worked at. Explained what you learned from those experiences and how they’ve made you a strong employee.

Don’t paste directly from your resume. A job application letter is meant to add to your value as a candidate, not just reiterate the same information repeatedly. Use your resume as a guide , but expand on especially relevant details.

Don’t submit an unedited letter. Before an employer ever meets you, they see your application and your job application letter. You don’t want grammar errors and misspelled words to make a bad first impression, so make sure to edit your draft multiple times.

Armed with these tips, guidelines, and examples, you’ll be able to draft your job application letter more confidently and send them off to potential employers knowing that you’re one step closer to employment.

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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.

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Examples

Job Application Letter

Job application letter maker.

sample of an official job application letter

A Job Application Letter is a critical tool for making a positive first impression on potential employers. It’s your chance to showcase your skills and enthusiasm for the position. This guide, complete with letter examples , will walk you through the process of creating a compelling application letter. You’ll learn how to highlight your experiences effectively, tailor your letter to specific jobs, and stand out from other applicants. With these tips and examples, crafting a job application letter that grabs attention becomes an achievable goal.

Job Application Letter Bundle

Download Job Application Letter Bundle

Before you can be considered for a recruitment interview, there are several materials that you need to hand to the employer. One of these is the job application letter. This document accompanies your resume in terms of giving information about your qualifications and other deliverable. We have come up with a list of downloadable job application letters that you can use as guides and references. Browse through them so you can come up with a well-structured, impressive and efficient job application letter.

Job Application Letter

Size: 13 KB

Free Download

Job Application Letter for Company

Job Application Letter for Company

Job Application Letter for Teacher

Job Application Letter for Teacher

Size: 19 KB

Formal Job Application Letter Template

Formal Job Application Letter Template

  • Google Docs

Size: 59 KB

Job Application Letter for Undergraduate Student Template

Job Application Letter for Undergraduate Student Template

  • Apple Pages

Size: 38 KB

Marketing Assistance Job Application Letter Template

Marketing Assistance Job Application Letter Template

Size: 51 KB

Job Application Letter For Junior Accountant Template

Job Application Letter For Junior Accountant Template

Size: 48 KB

Job Application Letter for Employment Template

Job Application Letter for Employment Template

Size: 62 KB

Fresher Job Application Letter Template

Fresher Job Application Letter Template

Size: 40 KB

Email Job Application Letter Template

Email Job Application Letter Template

Job Application Letter for Junior Doctor Template

Job Application Letter for Junior Doctor Template

Free Job Application Letter For Accountant Assistant Template

Free Job Application Letter For Accountant Assistant Template

Size: 57 KB

Job Application Letter Template For Software Engineer

Job Application Letter Template For Software Engineer

Job Application Letter Template For Assistant

Job Application Letter Template For Assistant

Size: 43 KB

Job Application Letter Template For Accountant

Job Application Letter Template For Accountant

Size: 50 KB

Job Application Letter For Receptionist Template

Job Application Letter For Receptionist Template

Size: 75 KB

Job Application Letter For Receptionist Position Template

Job Application Letter For Receptionist Position Template

Size: 66 KB

Job Application Letter for Executive Assistant Template

Job Application Letter for Executive Assistant Template

Job Application Letter for Executive Template

Job Application Letter for Executive Template

Size: 58 KB

Job Application Letter for Executive Secretary Template

Job Application Letter for Executive Secretary Template

Job Application Letter For Graphic Designer Template

Job Application Letter For Graphic Designer Template

Job Application Letter for Assistant Professor Template

Job Application Letter for Assistant Professor Template

Size: 42 KB

Doctor Job Application Letter Template

Doctor Job Application Letter Template

Size: 18 KB

Clerk Job Application Letter Template

Clerk Job Application Letter Template

Size: 17 KB

Free Job Application Letter for Assistant Engineer Template

Free Job Application Letter for Assistant Engineer Template

Size: 20 KB

Free Job Application Letter for Assistant Manager Template

Free Job Application Letter for Assistant Manager Template

Size: 22 KB

Free Job Application Letter For Engineer Template

Free Job Application Letter For Engineer Template

Free Job Application Letter to Marketing Manager Template

Free Job Application Letter to Marketing Manager Template

Job Application Letter – Sample and Tips Example

Job Application Letter - Sample and Tips Example

Size: 244 KB

Good Application Letter Example

Good Application Letter Example

Application Letter / Cover Letter Example

Application Letter / Cover Letter Example

Do You Really Need a Job Application Letter?

It is already common knowledge that a resume is one of the most essential items that you need to prepare whenever you plan to apply for a job. However, it is not the only document that can affect the decisions of employers. Aside from a reference letter  written by another person, you can also create another letter that can help you in your application.

A job application letter, or a cover letter , can also greatly impact the way employers look at you as a candidate. If you can create a comprehensive and strategically-formulated cover letter, then you can have higher chances of getting a call for an interview or for the next phases of the recruitment. Here are some of the reasons why we think that making a job application letter should also be prioritized whenever you plan to immerse in the processes of searching and applying for vacant job positions open for employment:

  • A job application letter can help you easily target the demands of the work position. If there are already specifications with the minimum requirements of the job designation, your job application can provide information and instances that are aligned with what the company is looking for. Even if a resume can also do this, a job application letter is actually more thorough as it allows you to be more detailed when discussing your deliverable. You may also see email cover letter examples .
  • A job application letter can make you more desirable as a candidate. This document does not only present your skills and potential. You can also specify the items that you know about the business and its operations. Through this, you can already discuss how you can help the business achieve its goals. If the business can create the perception that you are truly knowledgeable of the specifics of the work position and why you deserve to be hired, then more interest can be given to your application. You may also like business proposal letter examples .
  • A job application letter can market your professional qualifications. The further you explain what employers can expect from you, the more they can have an overview of how you can add value to the business. This is the reason why you have to be strategic when placing information in the job application letter. As much as possible, include information that are highly-related to the work post that you are targeting and those that are directly aligned with the corporate vision, mission and objective of the company.

Cover Letter / Job Application Letter – Guidelines and Example

Cover Letter / Job Application Letter - Guidelines and Example

Size: 28 KB

Job Application Letter / Cover Letter Template Example

Job Application Letter / Cover Letter Template Example

Simple Job Application Letter Example

Simple Job Application Letter Example

Basic Job Application Letter Example

Basic Job Application Letter Example

How to Prepare Yourself Before Writing a Job Application Letter

If you want to receive a job appointment letter at the end of the recruitment process, you have to ensure that all the documents that you will submit during your application are on point. The process of developing the content, discussion flow and format of your job application letter is very important.

Unlike how others think of it, a job application letter is actually not that easy to do. Yes, you can just write a letter about your desire to apply for a particular work position any time of the day. However, the question that you need to answer is whether the document that you have written can make you standout from your competitors or not. This is why you have to take your time when planning how to come up with an impressive job application letter. Here is how you can prepare yourself whenever you are already prepared to create your own job application letter:

  • Understand the task that you have at hand. It is best for you to research about the development of an outstanding job application letter first before making it. The knowledge and thought that you have about this process can make it easier for you to understand what you need to write in the job application letter.
  • Make sure that you will have enough relevant information about your prospective employer and the job position that you would like to be hired for. Being knowledgeable of the brand, operational needs and corporate image of the business can help you associate your skills and other qualifications in a more strategic and targeted manner.
  • Think of how your job application letter can impact your chances of being noticed by employers. We never know how businesses select their new hires. Do they look at the resumes first before browsing through the job application letter, or the other way around Do they base their impressions just on your professional profile or they also keenly observe the other supplementary documents that you present? Knowing that you have developed a professional, complete and presentable job application letter can make you more confident in the processes of application which can further boost your confidence in the next phases of the recruitment.
  • Gather keywords which can be used in the job application letter. These keywords must be related to the industry where the business is a part of, the demands of the work position that you are applying for, the nature of operations of the employer, and the specifics of the daily job functions expected from the work post open for employment. Remember that your job application letter does not need to be technical and full of terms and jargon. However, you should also not forget that it must be informative.

Cover Letter for Job Application Example

Cover Letter for Job Application Example

Size: 24 KB

Job Application Letter – Example

Job Application Letter - Example

Example of a Cover / Application Letter

Example of a Cover / Application Letter

How to Impress Employers Through Your Job Application Letter

Making a job application letter is a task that you need to seriously immerse yourself into. Some people think that a job application letter is not really necessary as a resume can already present the details that the employers would like to know. However, getting higher chances of a callback does not fully rely on providing what employers need to know but also by supplying them with information that can set the standards for the other applicants. This can easily be done through the development of a job application letter that can further elaborate details that a basic resume with a generic format can’t. Listed below are some of the ways on how you can possibly impress employers once they browse through the job application letter that you have submitted. You may also see acknowledgement letter examples & samples.

  • Write the letter in an engaging manner. Ensure that the employers will feel your enthusiasm about the job position that you want to have and the possibility of being a part of the company or the business. You can do this by being aware of the tone and language that you will incorporate in the letter development.
  • Present yourself as a candidate who is not just equipped with all the qualifications needed by the job position, but someone who is willing to learn and consistently wants to excel and improve in his or her chosen craft. This allows the company to have an idea that you have an idea about the business and you have selected to apply there because you believe that the possible employment can result to all parties mutually benefit from and with one another. You may also like employee reference letter samples .
  • Discuss the key requirements of the job position but veer away from presenting those that are already in your resume. There is no need to create a job application letter if you will just repeat what is already in your professional profile. You need to give the employers more insight of who you are and what you can provide the company with if they decide to hire you. You may also check out what is an application letter?
  • Ensure that you can showcase your relevance. List a number of reasons why you are the best candidate for the work position. When stating facts about how your qualifications fit the work description, do not be boastful or overly confident. The discussion must be formal and professional so that you can also make your character shine. Employers do not just look on your professional deliverable as work ethics, character, and adaptability are also important factors that businesses look for in their possible new hires. You might be interested in thank-you letter examples.
  • Focus on the formal letter format and presentation of the job application letter as much as you give focus on the document’s content. Make sure that you will come up with an organized discussion. More so, ensure that you will print the document in a clean and business-appropriate paper. If the company asks you to send it through email, do not forget to check if the job application letter has been attached in your message accordingly. You also have the option to properly format the letter in the body of the actual email.

Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Example

Standard Cover Letter / Application Letter Format Example

Standard Cover Letter / Application Letter Format Example

Example of a Cover Letter for Work Application

Example of a Cover Letter for Work Application

Cover Letter for Work Application Example

Cover Letter for Work Application Example

Content of a Job Application Letter

Think of your job application letter as a business proposal cover letter . The latter is used to present a blueprint or a plan that can help business transactions between corporate and/or business entities take place. The same goes with the usage of a job application letter. What do you want to present to employers? How do you want to be perceived? Do you think the content of the letter is appealing and impressive enough for an employment transaction to take place? If you can confidently answer these items, then you are on the right track.

The completion of the content in your job application letter must be highly considered. Making a comprehensive job application letter can effectively provide you with a lead advantage during the recruitment and selection process. Here are the important information that you need to include in your job application letter:

  • The date when you have written and submitted the job application letter
  • The name of the person to whom the job application letter is for and his or her connection to the company
  • The business name and other information of the company where you are applying
  • A salutation
  • The job position that you are applying for
  • The statement that you are a great fit for the work position
  • The reason why you would like to be hired for the work post by the employer
  • The relation of your professional work experiences and deliverable to your desired work position
  • The supporting details that can further strengthen your qualifications
  • The relevance of your professional expertise to the goals and objective of the business
  • A conclusion that should appeal to the employer
  • A simple statement that you will be more than willing to progress to the next phases of the hiring process
  • A statement that you will be waiting for the response of the employer regarding the matter
  • A message of appreciation for the employer’s effort and time to review your application
  • Your contact information where the employer may reach you in the future
  • A closing remark and your signature

You may also see two weeks notice letter examples & samples.

Job Application Letter for Applicants With a Gap in Career History Example

Job Application Letter for Applicants With a Gap in Career History Example

Cover Letter Layout Example

Cover Letter Layout Example

Cover Letter / Application Letter Template Example

Cover Letter / Application Letter Template Example

Benefits of Having a Comprehensive and Detailed Job Application Letter

With the stiff competition in different industries, you have to come up with ways and strategies on how you can take a step ahead of other applicants. Always remember that there are limited job opportunities that are targeted by highly-qualified and technically-equipped candidates on a daily basis. Having these in mind can help you prepare better when applying for a job. A job application letter can be one of your strengths during this process. Hence, it is important for you to create this document in the most effective way possible. A few of the benefits that you can have as an applicant if you will create a complete and precise job application letter are as follows:

  • Making a job application letter can help you introduce yourself elaborately. You can highlight your key competencies especially those that are not fully-discussed or even placed in your resume summary statement and within the entirety of your professional profile. With this, the employer can give a higher value to your accomplishments and professional experiences. Doing this can also help you showcase instances and real occurrences where your previous employers were able to benefit from your expertise and the execution of your skills in the actual work environment.
  • Creating a job application letter can make it possible for you to further express yourself. Why have you chosen the business as your first choice for possible employment? Why do you think you deserve to be hired? What kind of professional work do you want to be involved in? These are only a few of the questions that you can precisely and directly answer in a job application letter. Most resumes are constraining when it comes to the information that you need to include due to the format that you need to follow. This is not the case when making a job application letter as this document contains a conversation-like content in a professional setting. You may also see business letter examples .
  • Developing a job application letter can give you the chance to explain the weak areas of your resume. As an example, you can discuss reasons on why you have huge employment gaps or why you decided to resign from one company then to another in a short period of time. However, keep in mind that you should not sound defensive when writing these details as it can also negate the purpose of developing the job application letter which is supposed to impress employers. You may also like reference letter examples.
  • Having a job application letter as an essential part of your application strategy can help your qualifications become more tailored with the job position that you are applying for. If you have a job application letter, then you do not need to change a lot of things in your resume as you can already discuss more details in the application letter. Your professional work experiences may not be directly related to the job position that you want. Through the help of a job application letter, you may present the connection of your previous work assignments to the requirements of the new job position that you are applying for. You may also check out appointment letter examples & samples.

Short Job Application Letter Example

Cover Letter / Application Letter Template Example

Guide and Example of Job Application Letter / Cover Letter

Guide and Example of Job Application Letter / Cover Letter

Size: 14 KB

Cover Letter / Application Letter – Warning w/ Example

Cover Letter / Application Letter - Warning w/ Example

Tips to Follow When Developing a Job Application Letter

Creating an effective Job Application Letter is crucial in the job hunting process. This document, often accompanying your resume, is your opportunity to make a strong first impression. Whether you’re crafting a cover letter or a job application email, there are key elements to include for a professional cover letter. Here’s a guide to help you develop an impactful job application letter:

  • Understand the Purpose : Your job application letter is more than just a formality. It’s a personal introduction and a pitch. It should complement your resume by highlighting your relevant skills and experiences, tailored to the job you’re applying for.
  • Research the Company : Tailoring your letter to the specific company and position is crucial. Show that you have done your homework by mentioning something about the company’s values, culture, or recent achievements.
  • Start Strong : The opening of your professional cover letter sets the tone. Begin with a compelling introduction that grabs the reader’s attention. Mention the position you’re applying for and how you discovered the opening.
  • Highlight Relevant Skills and Experiences : Use the body of your letter to emphasize why you’re the right fit. Focus on experiences and skills that directly relate to the job description . Use specific examples and quantify your achievements where possible.
  • Make it Personal : Avoid generic phrases. Personalize your job application email or letter by reflecting your enthusiasm for the role and explaining why you’re passionate about working for this specific company.
  • Keep it Concise and Clear : Your letter should be easy to read and to the point. Aim for no more than one page. Use short paragraphs and bullet points for easy scanning.
  • Professional Tone and Language : While you want to show your personality, maintain a professional tone. Use formal language and avoid slang or overly casual phrases.
  • Proofread and Edit : Typos and grammatical errors can make a bad impression. Proofread your letter multiple times and consider having someone else review it as well.
  • Closing with a Call to Action : End your letter by thanking the employer for considering your application and express your interest in discussing your candidacy further in an interview.

A well-crafted Job Application Letter is your gateway to capturing the attention of potential employers. By following the outlined tips and emphasizing your unique skills and experiences, you can create a compelling and professional cover letter. Remember, this letter is your chance to make a memorable first impression, paving the way for a successful job application process.

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Job Application Letter Examples and Writing Tips

A strong job application letter improves your chances of getting the job you want — but it can be tough to put one into words. Look at these 9 job application cover letter examples and writing tips to get inspired and craft your letter like a pro.

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Your job application letter (also known as a cover letter) is your chance to stand out from the competition by showing the employer how your experience, skills, and work ethic qualify you for their specific job opportunity.

If the purpose of a CV is to tell the employer what skills you offer them, the purpose of your job application is to explain why those skills are important and how the employer can benefit from them.

But even if you’ve already read up on how to write a cover letter , putting one together can be difficult.

Check out these nine job application cover letter examples, a cover letter template, and writing tips to get over your writer’s block and put together a letter that dazzles the employer and moves your name onto their interview shortlist.

9 job application cover letter examples

The best tone, structure, and content for your job application letter depends on the job you’re applying for and the type of company that’s reviewing your application.

Here are nine examples of cover letters for different job applications and cover letter formats for:

  • teaching jobs
  • engineering jobs
  • accounting jobs
  • nursing jobs
  • emailing an application letter
  • asking about possible job opportunities
  • following up on a previous job application
  • withdrawing a job application

Looking for a more specific example? Check out our cover letter examples page, with tailored letters and tips for various jobs and industries.

1. Teaching job application letter

Enthusiasm, people skills, and classroom results are valuable elements when writing a teacher cover letter .

Tell the employer why you’re interested in their learning centre by spotlighting values, teaching approaches, or specialist areas that match your skills and interests.

Previous experience is always a plus, so if you’ve taught in a classroom setting before, be sure to highlight relevant details:

  • Class sizes
  • Methodologies
  • Important classroom metrics (e.g., student performance)

Here’s an application letter for a teaching job that highlights all the right traits:

A job application letter for a teaching job with a blue header and several paragraphs outlining the applicants qualifications for the job.

Teaching Application Letter Sample (Text Version)

17 June 2023

Abigail Baxter Rosewood Junior School 17 Elmsgrove Close Hove BN10 7QY 07123 987 789

Dear Ms Baxter,

I’m writing to express my interest in the part-time Class Teacher position at Rosewood Junior School, as advertised on the Brighton & Hove City Council website. With over four years of teaching experience, I’m adept at delivering the individualised teaching style, special educational support, and dynamic in-class experience that your school prides itself on.

My previous role at Peacehaven Heights Primary School demonstrates my commitment to helping every student succeed. I worked closely with teachers to design and deliver engaging and creative new lesson plans, manage classrooms, and assess student progress. My efforts led to a 25% increase in student performance in Key Stage 1 and 2 SATs and a significant uptake in reading ability among younger students.

I’m particularly drawn to Rosewood Junior School because of your commitment to serving students with various learning difficulties. I’m experienced in working with students who have moderate to severe learning difficulties and autistic spectrum disorders, and I’m confident in my ability to adapt my teaching methods to meet their unique needs.

I’m a reflective, flexible, and resilient professional who enjoys working collaboratively with a team. I believe in building strong relationships with families and maintaining open lines of communication to ensure the best outcomes for students.

Thank you for considering my application. I’m eager to bring my passion for education, skills in classroom management and lesson planning skills, and special education experience to Rosewood Junior School. I look forward to discussing how I can contribute to your team.

Ralph Shorrocks

2. Engineering job application letter

Whether the employer is looking for data analysis or mastery of AutoCAD, you’ll need to demonstrate the right technical skills to be considered for your dream engineering job.

This cover letter for an engineering job makes a strong case for the applicant by highlighting their qualifications, practical experience, and knowledge of computer-aided design software:

A job application letter for an engineering position with maroon header text and a geometric pattern in the lower-right corner.

Engineering Application Letter Sample (Text Version)

19 May 2023

Jo Cole St Helens Borough Council 2 Corporation Street St Helens WA10 1HF 07123 456 789

Dear Mx Cole,

I’m writing to express my interest in the Graduate Engineer position at St Helens Borough Council, as advertised on your website. With a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering (first-class honours) from Durham University and internship experience at Reeve Construction, I’m excited to contribute to your plans for substantial regeneration and growth.

While at Reeve Construction, I prepared blueprints, specification sheets, and contracts for various large and small-scale projects. I employed AutoCAD and other computer-aided drawing tools to formulate and evaluate structural designs. I also performed inspections and reconnaissance surveys on various sites to determine their feasibility for assigned projects. These experiences have equipped me with a strong foundation in civil engineering principles and practices.

I’m particularly excited about the opportunity to contribute to the Highways & Infrastructure Division. I’m eager to apply my skills in structural design, project management, and collaboration to support the Council’s Regeneration, Growth and Infrastructure Programme. I’m sure my leadership and strong public speaking skills will be invaluable to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. At your convenience, I’d be delighted to share how my engineering, project management, and people skills can benefit St Helens Borough Council. You can contact me on 07123 123 123 or by email at [email protected].

Yours sincerely,

Anish Singh

3. Accounting job application letter sample

Already using hard numbers to optimise your CV work experience section ? Do the same when you write your job application letter.

Hard numbers are highly effective at highlighting key achievements on a cover letter because:

  • numbers stand out on a page full of words
  • they’re easy for employers to understand and remember

This accounting job application letter does an excellent job of quantifying the applicant’s achievements. And as accountancy is a highly results-oriented field, the employer will find the approach highly persuasive:

A job application letter for an accountant role with the applicant's contact information aligned next to their name in the header.

Accounting Application Letter Sample (Text Version)

12 June 2023

Emma McNaughton 19 Market Road Chelmsford CM1 1GG 0345 803 234

Dear Ms McNaughton,

I’m writing to express my interest in the Assistant Accountant vacancy at Essex County Council. As a fully qualified Accountant with 2 years of proven experience and a BA in Accountancy from the University of Manchester (1), I’m confident in my ability to contribute to your team.

As a Junior Accountant at Menzies LLP, I analysed accounting data and prepared thorough and accurate financial records. I ensured that all statements accurately depicted the company’s financial status and assisted my team in transitioning from a manual accounting system to QuickBooks, increasing operational efficiency by 60%. I also have experience tracking and reporting on aged accounts, which you mentioned as a key responsibility in this role. Previously, I’ve succeeded in improving the recovery of bad debts by 70%.

During my Accountancy Internship at Lauren & Wills, I passed all financial entries and maintained ledgers with 100% accuracy. I saved £35K for the company by removing inaccuracies from the payroll record and introduced operational improvements that reduced bookkeeping time by 40%.

I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills in financial management and planning to the Economy, Investment & Public Health team as your newest junior staff member. I’d love to meet for an interview and discuss the role and how I can support your team moving forward. You can reach me at [email protected] or 07923 283 239.

Jonathan Hopper

4. Nursing job application letter example

If you’re applying for a nursing position that asks you to submit a CV, you’ll need to send in a nursing cover letter , too.

This cover letter for a nursing job application demonstrates how you should focus on outlining what you can do for the employer rather than what the job will do for you:

An application letter for a nursing job with the applicant's name framed in the header and the contact person's information set against a pale grey background.

Nursing Job Application Letter Sample (Text Version)

18 April 2023

Emma Copland Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service 17 Calder Road Edinburgh EH14 4BE

Dear Ms Copland,

I’m writing to express my interest in the Staff Nurse position at the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service (SNBTS), as advertised on NHS Scotland. As a registered nurse with over four years of experience providing comprehensive care for patients in GP surgeries and hospitals, I’m confident I can contribute to your team.

As a Nurse at Queen Mary Hospital NHS, I care for a diverse range of patients, delivering attentive support. I assessed patients by checking pulses, measuring blood pressure, taking temperatures, and recording height & weight. I also visited homebound patients, administering medicine, cleaning wounds, and generally assessing their medical condition.

I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to the SNBTS. I’m eager to apply my patient care, advocacy, and collaboration skills to support the Service’s operations. I’m flexible and willing to work variable hours, including Sundays and late evenings.

Thank you for considering my application. My CV is attached for your further review, and should you wish, I’d be delighted to meet with you in person and discuss how I can help as an addition to your staff.

Harriet Mosely

5. IT job application letter example

If you’re applying for an IT job, your application letter should, at a minimum, include any qualifications or certifications the role requires.

But to win over the employer, you’ll need to show them what benefits these experiences will bring to their team if they hire you.

See how this IT job applicant highlights their relevant qualifications but also teases how they could use these skills to help the employer if hired as a member of their staff:

A job application letter with the applicant's name coloured blue and set against a greyscale header and a few paragraphs outlining their qualifications.

IT Job Application Letter Sample (Text Version)

4 June 2023

Andrew Higgens Matter Materials Technology Ivanhoe Midlands 9 Yew Street Wolverhampton WV3 0VA

Dear Mr Higgens,

I’m writing to you regarding the Computer Technician role that has recently become available within your department. Your colleague Ms Buchanan recommended that I apply for the position because of my experience in this field. Not only do I have a 2.1 from one of the UK’s leading Computer Science courses, but I also have over 5 years of practical experience.

Having worked as a Computer Support Specialist for 5 years at Ivanhoe Midlands, I’m ready to prove myself in a more challenging role. At Ivanhoe, I provided computer support to numerous departments and set up and maintained network systems. I also communicated with coworkers about security measures to prevent cyber-attacks. This job required me to apply my analytical skills, and I constantly monitored network systems for weak spots. I can research your network systems accordingly, test for points of cyber-attack, and take preventative action to prevent such incidents. I firmly believe these transferable skills are an excellent fit for your job opening, given the extensive focus on security and communication.

While studying for my BSc in Computer Science, I learnt how to read code and set up security systems. I also gained a CompTIA+ certificate, qualifying me to set up and maintain various security systems. If I’m given this opportunity, I can guarantee that your networks will be safer and more secure from cyber-attacks.

If you’d like to discuss my experience further, please contact me on 07123 456 789 whenever convenient.

Thank you for taking the time to read my job application letter.

John Wright

Other types of job application letters

Depending on your current situation or application, you might need to use a different format for your job application or write your cover letter differently.

Here are a few examples of job application letters that have different formats or end purposes:

6. Email cover letter

Here’s an example of an email application letter that doesn’t include the date or employer’s contact information:

A gmail window illustrating what an email job application letter looks like

Email Job Application Letter Sample (Text Version)

Dear Mr Higgins,

Please find my CV and application letter attached below, which detail my education and computer support experience.

Having worked as a Computer Support Specialist for 5 years at Ivanhoe Midlands, I’m ready to prove myself in a more challenging role. During my tenure at Ivanhoe, I communicated with coworkers on security measures to prevent cyber-attacks and provide computer support.

Given your company’s extensive focus on security and communication, I believe these transferable skills would be an excellent fit for your job opening.

Please contact me on 07123 456 789 if you wish to discuss the role further at whichever time suits you.

John Wright 07123 456 789 [email protected]

7. Speculative job application letter

A speculative job application letter is a covering letter you send out when you want to find out about possible job opportunities.

You write speculative job application letters differently from traditional covering letters, normally focusing on why the applicant wants to work for the employer rather than why they’re qualified for a specific job. Here’s how:

A speculative job application letter with the applicant's name set against a large greyscale header.

Speculative Job Application Letter Sample (Text Version)

20 June 2023

Parker Scott 20 Elmsgrove Street Bristol BS2 8KA

Dear Mx Scott,

I’m writing to express my interest in potential Campaign Manager positions at Reach!. As a forward-thinking public relations specialist with 3 years of experience working with various consumer-facing brands and services, I can make significant contributions to your agency.

My recent experience bridges strategy development, client communications, and creative copywriting. As a Public Relations Officer at Loud.ly, I work closely with the account team to develop and execute PR strategies, ensuring client reports and media pitches follow company guidelines and style guides. My efforts have helped Loud.ly establish relationships with two key industry leaders, increasing reach by 15%.

At this point in my career, I’m looking to work for a digitally-oriented agency with industry experience and strategic ingenuity to help me grow as a PR professional. In following Reach! over the past couple of years, I’ve always been impressed by your innovative approaches to client problems and the way you leverage creative copywriting and user sentiment to set client audiences abuzz — I’m thinking of the Groundhog campaign for MeetCute.

Naturally, I’d be thrilled to meet with you in person and discuss the contributions I can make towards Reach! in more detail. You can reach me by phone (07123 933 023) or email (Ida Smith).

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how I can contribute to your team.

8. Follow-up letter for a job application

Perhaps the employer is experiencing delays. Perhaps they just have a lot of CVs to read through. Either way, you haven’t heard back from them for a couple of weeks.

It’s time to send a follow-up letter .

Follow-up letters politely remind the employer about your job application and reaffirm your interest in working for them. If you want to make more of an impact, you can also highlight a relevant skill or achievement that qualifies you for the role.

Using the same cover letter template  you used for your original job application will make you appear more professional and demonstrate your attention to detail.

A formal letter in which the job seeker follows up on an earlier application.

Follow-Up Letter for a Job Application Letter Sample (Text Version)

30 April 2023

George Astley Spoonful Media Holborn Plaza Sheffield S1 4BT 01142 230 494

Dear Mr Astley,

Hoping this message finds you well. I’m writing to follow up on my application for the Digital Marketing Specialist position that I submitted on 18 April. I’m very excited about this role and believe my unique experience has equipped me with the skills to excel handling the responsibilities of this position.

For example, I notice that you’ve been building brand presence on YouTube to reach younger audience members. In addition to the text-based SEO skills I outlined in my previous email, I also have significant experience optimising video content for YouTube. Over the past 6 months, YouTube strategies I developed for my current employers increased their Impressions CTR by 60% and Cards CTR by around 50%, demonstrating my ability to drive brand visibility and engagement.

I understand that you may be in the process of reviewing applications, but I believe that given my highly relevant skill set, I would be a valuable addition to your team. I’d love the opportunity to discuss how I can support your brand’s content strategy and hope we can meet in person soon to do so.

Thank you again for considering my application.

Best regards,

Jacqueline Buttermere

9. Sample withdrawal letter for a job application

If you’ve accepted another job offer or decided to take your job search in another direction, you might find yourself writing a withdrawal letter to inform an employer that you don’t wish to work for them anymore.

While it might be easier just to stop communicating with an employer after you decide to cancel your application, writing a courteous withdrawal letter has notable advantages:

  • You can keep a line of communication open with the employer
  • The employer might contact you first about new opportunities

When writing a withdrawal letter, be polite, apologetic, and give a reason for your decision to withdraw your application. Here’s an example withdrawal letter, written for email:

A gmail window showing how to write a letter of withdrawal from a job application.

Withdrawal Letter for a Job Application (Text Version)

Dear Mr Miotti,

I’m writing to inform you I’m withdrawing my application for the Customer Service Representative position, which I submitted on 2 May.

While I was genuinely excited about joining your MENA Customer Support team, I’ve accepted a different opportunity that aligns more closely with my immediate career goals.

Thank you for the time and consideration you’ve given my application. Elswood Services seems to have an enviable company culture. Your overall approach to customer support and sales certainly would make you one of the first employers I’d reach out to if I wanted to make a career change.

I hope we can keep this line of communication open. If any future opportunities with your company align with my career path, I’ll be in touch.

In the meantime, I wish you all the best in finding the right candidate for your current vacancy.

Julian Norwich

07123 456 789 [email protected]

Job Application Letter Template

Below is a template you can copy and paste into your word processor and personalise to suit the specific job you’re applying for.

If you’re not sure how to edit the template, read through this guide on what to include in a cover letter.

1. Application letter header : Open your application letter with your name in a large, bold font at the top of the page. Add your email, phone number, and other contact details under your name within the header.

2. Date : Write the date you’re writing the letter underneath your header (right-aligned) — for example, ‘14 October 2021’ or ‘14/10/2021’.

3. Employer’s name and contact details : If you know the employer’s name, state it in this section, including the company’s name and address. If you don’t have a name, use the name of the department you’re applying for or a job title like ‘Accounting Manager’.

4. Salutation : When addressing your job application letter , use ‘Dear Mr’, ‘Dear Mrs’, ‘Dear Mx’, or the name of the department or company you’re applying for. Add the recipient’s surname to the salutation to personalise your application letter. Try to avoid using ‘Dear Sir/Madam’ or ‘ To Whom It May Concern ’ as they’re considered cliches.

5. Opening paragraph : Start your application letter by stating how you became aware of the job opening introducing your professional work history, and explaining directly why you feel you would be an ideal fit for the role.

6. Body paragraphs : In 1–2 paragraphs, expand on what you’ve built on in the first paragraph by emphasising your experience and key CV skills and relating them directly to the needs of the job.

7. Closing paragraph : Show gratitude to the employer for taking the time to read your application letter. Next, invite them to contact you through a call to action (CTA) by mentioning how grateful you’d be to receive an interview and include a phone number and email address for employers to reach you.

8. Professional sign-off : Use ‘Yours sincerely’ to close your letter if you used the recipient’s name in the salutation. If you went with the department name, use ‘Yours faithfully.’ Type or sign your name to end your job application letter . A hand-written signature is optional but looks professional and conveys how much effort you’ve put into your job application letter.

If you sign your name, leave three lines to write the signature after printing your letter. If you’re emailing your job application letter, skip a line and write your name and contact details.

How to write a job application letter (3 tips)

Below are three ways to enhance your application letter:

1. Use correct formatting

To use proper job application letter formatting , set your font size to between 10.5 points and 12 points. Smaller font sizes than 10.5 points are difficult to read, while font sizes larger than 12 points appear unprofessional.

Keep your page margins between 1.25 cm and 2.5 cm. Use a good cover letter font like Times New Roman or Arial for your application letter so employers can easily read your application letter.

Always use the same font for your CV and cover letter as this shows attention to detail. An easy way to ensure your application documents match is to use an online CV creator that also offers a cover letter builder .

Also, save your job application letter as either a .docx or PDF file or according to the job description.

2. Write to enhance (not parrot) your CV

Your job application letter accompanies your CV, so there’s no need to repeat information across both documents.

Instead, treat your CV as a factual overview of your abilities and accomplishments. List what you can do and what you have done.

Then use your job application letter to explain how your experience is relevant to the job. Specify how you can help the employer by bringing your skill set to their team.

Remember to write in a personable tone. Your job application letter is often your one chance to show the employer your personality before they decide whether to interview you. Writing in an appropriate voice will make your application more engaging and memorable.

3. Tailor your application letter to the job advert

With each new job application, adjust your application letter’s content depending on the job.

Companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to find ideal candidates, so ensure your letter gets past the ATS by using the exact keywords you see from the job advert.

Customised descriptions of your skill sets and work history also show employers you’ve put effort into your application letter and understand what qualifications they’re looking for.

Seb Morgan headshot

Seb Morgan is a Career Counsellor for CV Genius, where he helps job seekers and professionals get more out of their careers. With over 7 years of experience in business and lifestyle journalism, he's written for a stack of careers-focused publications, including Oxbridge Home Learning, Study International, theHRDirector, and Employee Benefit News, and his expertise includes skill development, interview preparation, and CV and cover letter writing. West Midlands born and raised, Seb has since lived, worked, and studied in 4 countries across 2 continents. He speaks 4 languages and has survived job interviews in 3 of them. He currently also freelances as a travel and culture writer. Reach him at [sebastian] @ [cvgenius.com] or via LinkedIn.

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  • Job Application Documents

How to Write a Job Application Letter (with Examples)

Last Updated: June 8, 2024 Fact Checked

Sample Letters

Introduction, body paragraphs, closing your letter, expert q&a.

This article was written by Shannon O'Brien, MA, EdM and by wikiHow staff writer, Aly Rusciano . Shannon O'Brien is the Founder and Principal Advisor of Whole U. (a career and life strategy consultancy based in Boston, MA). Through advising, workshops and e-learning Whole U. empowers people to pursue their life's work and live a balanced, purposeful life. Shannon has been ranked as the #1 Career Coach and #1 Life Coach in Boston, MA by Yelp reviewers. She has been featured on Boston.com, Boldfacers, and the UR Business Network. She received a Master's of Technology, Innovation, & Education from Harvard University. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 10,685,919 times.

So, you’ve found your dream job and want to make sure you nail the job application process. You double- and triple-check the criteria—they’re asking for a cover letter. What does that mean, and how do you write it? A cover letter or letter of application is a single page that sums up why you want and deserve the job. Think of it as an extension of your resume; a sales pitch for why you’re the perfect candidate. We’ve put together a step-by-step guide full of examples and tips on how to write a letter of application for a job. With our help and a little finesse, you may soon be calling that dream job your own.

Things You Should Know

  • Format your application letter single-spaced and in Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri font that’s 10- to 12-point in size.
  • Open your letter with an engaging and confident first paragraph that briefly includes your qualifications, where you found the job, and your overall interest in the position.
  • Show your personality in the body paragraphs by describing the passions that relate to the position in 1 or 2 sentences.
  • Use keywords (like leadership, communication, and detail-oriented) from the job description throughout your letter to show that you’ve done your research.

sample of an official job application letter

  • First and last name
  • Phone number
  • Email address
  • Personal website and/or portfolio link (if you have one)

Step 4 Provide the company’s information.

  • If you don’t know the hiring manager's name, search the company’s website or refer to the name of the individual who originally posted the job opening.
  • If you’re in doubt about who to address your letter to, use “[Department] Hiring Manager.”

Step 5 Open your letter with a formal greeting.

  • If you don’t have the employer or hiring manager’s name, use a general but professional opening, “To Whom It May Concern” or “Dear [Department] Hiring Manager.”

Step 1 Explain what drew you to the job.

  • Be short and specific in this opening paragraph—save those details for later.
  • Think of your first paragraph as a sales pitch. What can you say that’ll grab their attention immediately? Is there something you have that other candidates don’t that make you more qualified for the position?
  • Show the employer that you’re familiar with the company and job application by noting keywords and characteristics valued by the company.
  • For example: “I write to apply for the Office Manager position at Acme Investments, Inc. I am an excellent fit for this position, as demonstrated by my extensive background in management and proven success as a corporate administrator.”

Step 2 State where you found the position.

  • Companies appreciate when job candidates include this information because it lets them know where people are searching for jobs.
  • Only include a company contact or friend’s name if you have their permission. This way, they’ll be ready to answer any questions about you and your character later.
  • You may write something like: “John Smith recommended that I get in touch with you about the general manager position at EnviroRent,” or “I came across the available position on LinkedIn and believe I am a strong candidate.”

Step 3 Explain why hiring you would benefit the company.

  • For instance, if the company needs someone who can lead a team and handle multiple projects at once, note what team projects you’ve led in previous positions and how you improved overall productivity.
  • If you have numerical data or stats to back up your accomplishments, include them! This is your time to brag about your achievements and show how you’ve excelled in the workplace.

Step 1 Summarize your strengths, qualifications, and experiences.

  • Scan the job application for keywords like leadership, communication, management, and detail-oriented. Then, highlight in your letter how you have these characteristics or skills.
  • Avoid embellishing any of your qualifications. Remember, an employer can always double-check the facts.
  • If you’re not sure what to write, refer to your resume or CV. What have you done that matches the job description best, and how can you elaborate on it?
  • For example: “In my previous role, I successfully supported an office of 100 personnel and honed my management and interpersonal skills through customer service and clerical responsibilities.”

Step 2 Include details that aren’t on your resume.

  • For instance, you could express how the company has impacted you personally and why that’s driven you to apply for the position.
  • Although you want to provide details, keep it short. Stick to a 1 to 2-sentence description rather than a full-length story. Your letter should stay under 3 paragraphs.
  • Here’s an example: “My passion for teaching began the summer of my sophomore year of high school when I was a camp counselor. I was given the opportunity to teach a class focusing on local plant life, and the campers’ enthusiasm cultivated my love for teaching and conservation.

Step 3 Finish with a call to action.

  • For instance, you could write, “I am excited about the possibility of working for you and your company. I would be more than happy to discuss my qualifications and Acme’s future direction in person or via video conference.”
  • Keep your call to action brief and open, or provide specific dates you’d be available to meet with the employer.

Step 1 Thank the employer for their time and consideration.

  • For instance, sign off with, “Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you,” or “Thank you for considering me for this position. If you have any further questions or require additional documentation, please don’t hesitate to contact me.”

Step 2 Sign off with a respectable salutation.

  • If you’re sending your letter via email, import your signature into the document as an image or .png file.

Adrian Klaphaak, CPCC

  • Always proofread and ask someone else to read over your application letter before you send it. This way, you can make sure it’s absolutely perfect and error-free. [13] X Trustworthy Source Purdue Online Writing Lab Trusted resource for writing and citation guidelines Go to source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • Keep the overall tone of the company or employer in mind while writing your letter. For instance, if you’re applying to be a journalist for a prestigious news website, match their word choice and writing style. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • Be sure to customize your application letter for every job you apply to, even if they have the same qualifications. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

sample of an official job application letter

You Might Also Like

Write a CV (Curriculum Vitae)

  • ↑ https://www.ferrum.edu/downloads/careers/cover-letters.pdf
  • ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/job_search_writing/job_search_letters/cover_letters_workshop/formatting_and_organization.html
  • ↑ https://icc.ucdavis.edu/materials/cover-letters
  • ↑ https://hbr.org/2016/05/learn-to-love-networking
  • ↑ https://hbr.org/2014/02/how-to-write-a-cover-letter
  • ↑ https://www.astate.edu/dotAsset/54eb42cc-33a3-4237-a46e-3f4aaac79389.pdf

About This Article

Shannon O'Brien, MA, EdM

The best way to start an application letter is to mention where you found the job opportunity and how your strengths can benefit the employer. Devote time in the body paragraphs to tell the employer more about your experience and qualifications. Explain why you’re the best candidate and finish by inviting the hiring manager to contact you. For suggestions on how to prepare your letter, and examples of what to write, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Job Application Letter Format - Check Out How to Write and Sample Letters

Are you a person who has completed their degree and is looking for a job? Have you been sending out job applications but have not heard back from the employer? If so, going through this article on job application letter writing format is what you should do now. Read through the following topics to understand the areas you are missing out on and what recruiters are looking for in a job application.

Table of Contents

Writing a job application letter – what recruiters expect.

  • Formal Letter for Job Application for the Position of Cryptographer

Sample Job Application Letter for the Post of High School English Teacher

Sample job application mail template.

  • FAQs on Job Application Letter Format

Every individual needs a job that pays them well so as to be able to live a comfortable life. In this competitive world, people find it really hard to get themselves placed in a good company due to the little things they thought were not that important and did not take into consideration. According to many, how you perform at the interview is all that matters, but that is not true. The employer builds an opinion about you from the very beginning. From the time you send in your job application, or your profile gets noticed on an online platform, the employer notices each and every little detail. Your job application letter is one of the first things that creates an impression about you in the eyes of the recruiter, so it is vital that you understand how to write a job application letter and draft a good one.

There are a few main aspects that recruiters look for when going through a job application letter. They try to analyse how passionate you are about taking up the particular job. Being genuine is one of the qualities that they look for in a potential candidate. How your skills and experience would add value to the company or organisation is one of the most important pointers they would be interested to know. You have got to convince the recruiter that you are the right person for the job in the way you present the job application letter.

Sample Job Application Letters for You

When you start writing your job application letter, keep in mind that a job application letter is not something casual. It has to be written in the format of a formal letter . Know how exactly you should write a job application letter by going through the sample job application letters given below.

Formal Letter of Job Application for the Position of Cryptographer

589/22, Srilakshmi Nagar Block 3

Subbanna Palya Extension

Banaswadi, Bangalore North

January 7, 2022

The HR Manager

Anton Technologies

Electronic City

Bangalore – 560012

Subject: Job application letter for the position of Cryptographer

Respected Sir,

This is with reference to the job posting on LinkedIn for the position of Cryptographer in your esteemed organisation. I have carefully read the job description. I have also browsed through your official website to understand the kind of work you do, and I am interested in working with you.

I am an MSc Electronics graduate, and I have completed multiple diploma courses in Cyber Security. I have hands-on experience of working in the field of cyber security for five years. Planning and executing various security means, analysing and documenting security systems, rebuilding and making arrangements for the safety of the security system, writing and developing security codes are some of the areas I have good experience with. I believe that I will be a good fit for the role in your company and that I can do justice to the responsibilities I will have to take up.

I have enclosed my resume and work samples for your kind review.

Thank you for your time and consideration. Hoping to hear from you.

Yours sincerely,

28 C, K K Nagar

Avarampalayam

Coimbatore – 641045

12 th January, 2022

The Principal

D A V Matriculation Higher Secondary School

Chennai – 600012

Subject: Job application letter for the post of High School English Teacher

Dear Mr. Sishir Kumar,

I am writing to you to express my interest in the job opening for the post of High School English Teacher in your prestigious institution. I have reviewed the roles and responsibilities in the job description you have posted on the Naukri employment portal dated 09/01/2022.

I am an MA English graduate. I have also completed my Masters in Education. I have a teaching experience of three years at the Indian Public School, Coimbatore. I have handled students from Class VI to X. I have experience in teaching the IGCSE syllabus. I have also been a part of the curriculum development team. I am looking for better opportunities where I can use my skills and expertise to help and mould students and their communication skills. I believe that I can do well and play a good role in providing quality education.

I have attached my resume and experience certificate for your kind perusal. Looking forward to hearing from you.

Thank you for taking the time to review my application.

LINDA RODRIGUES

Receiver’s mail id: [email protected]

Subject: Job Application for the Role of (Mention the job role you are applying for)

Respected Sir/Ma’am,

I am (Mention your full name) and I would like to apply for the role of (Job role) at your prestigious company.

I have completed my (Mention your degree) in (Mention the subject/specialisation). I have (Mention the years of experience) years of experience in the field of (Mention the field of work) at (Mention the name of your previous company). I have an in depth knowledge of the duties that I will have to perform and expertise in the particular field of work that would help me accomplish all the assigned tasks in the event of me being placed in your company.

I have enclosed herewith my resume, my detailed profile and a certificate of experience for your reference and review. I have also provided my contact information. Please feel free to contact me in case of any questions. I am looking forward to meeting with you in person for an interview.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Your full name

Contact number : 123456

Email id: [email protected]

Frequently Asked Questions on Job Application Letter Format

How do i write an application letter for a job.

Tips to write a job application letter:

  • Mention the job position you are applying for and where you found the information about the job opening.
  • Introduce yourself and highlight your skills and qualifications.
  • State strongly why you would be right for the job.
  • Use a polite tone throughout your letter.
  • Stay genuine and professional.
  • End the letter on a positive note.
  • Proofread the letter before you send it to the concerned hiring manager/employer.

What is a job application letter?

A job application letter is a cover letter that is written to the potential employer to provide them with information about your qualifications, skills and experience. It is sent along with your resume and other necessary documents.

How do you end a job application letter?

You can end your job application letter by thanking the employer for the time and consideration in going through your job application. You can use a complimentary closing such as ‘Yours sincerely’, ‘Sincerely’, ‘Best regards’, etc.

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Sample Cover Letter for Any Job Application

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According to a recent survey, 83% of recruiters agree that a cover letter with your job application is crucial even today. This official document should not be viewed as an obligation , but rather as a chance to showcase your candidacy to the hiring team.

If you’ve never included a cover letter with your job applications, you should start doing it now.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to writing a persuasive cover letter for job application . Keep reading, as we’ve also included a job application cover letter template to make it easy for you to get started.

Cover Letter example for Job Application (Text Format)

Full Name Address Phone Number Email Address

Hiring Manager’s Full Name Job Title Company Name Company Address

To: Hiring Manager Full Name, Date

Dear Mr./Ms./Mx. Hiring Manager Last Name,

I am writing to express my sincere interest in the (Job Title) position at (Company Name), as posted on (platform where you found the job posting). Qualified with a Bachelor’s degree in (your field) and 6 years of hands-on experience, I am confident that I can positively contribute to your team and drive exceptional results.

In my previous role at (Previous Company), I successfully (mention a key achievement or responsibility relevant to the job you’re applying for).

Furthermore, my (X) years tenure at (Previous Company) has equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of (Industry/Field) best practices. Throughout this remarkable journey, I showcased my strategic thinking and the ability to deliver concrete results by leveraging strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

In terms of soft skills, my excellent communication and interpersonal abilities have fostered positive working relationships with colleagues and clients alike. My adaptability and resilience have been crucial in navigating complex projects and overcoming challenges, ensuring successful outcomes. Additionally, I am proficient in using (Software or tools), enhancing my efficiency and productivity.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my skills and experience to (Company Name) and contribute to the continued success of your team. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing further how my qualifications align with the needs of your organization.

Please feel free to contact me at (your phone number) or (your email address) to schedule a convenient time for an interview.

Sincerely, Leah Richards

6 Steps To Crafting a Winning Cover Letter for Job Application

Recruiters are busy individuals, so they appreciate cover letters that are clear , structured, and, of course, purposeful. To ensure your application doesn’t end up in the reject pile, follow the steps below to craft a winning cover letter for job application:

1. Research the job you are applying for

Before you begin your job application cover letter, research the company or industry you are applying to. Every job has different requirements; to get noticed by recruiters, it’s crucial to comply with those conditions .

Here are a few things you need to research before starting with your job application cover letter:

  • Job requirements : Read the job description to understand what recruiters seek. Highlight the essential skills or qualities so you can later integrate them into your cover letter.
  • Know the company you’re applying to : Skim through the firm’s website to learn about its long-term goals and culture. If the organization you’re applying to lacks social media handles, you can inquire about them with your friends or colleagues as well.
  • Identify the hiring manager’s name : Addressing the recruiters by their full name indicates that you have invested time to find out who will read your cover letter. To discover the hiring manager’s name, you can refer to the job description, search the company on LinkedIn, or even explore the company’s website.

2. Outline sections of your cover letter for job application

Breaking down your cover letter into sections makes it easier for recruiters to follow . It minimizes confusion and lets them quickly locate key information, such as your qualifications, experiences, and goals.

A compelling cover letter for job application would typically contain several sections, including:

  • Comprehensive header containing your and the employer’s contact information.
  • Formal salutations or greetings.
  • Catchy introductory paragraph.
  • Middle body: containing qualifications, skills, and experiences.
  • Closing paragraph: to thank the recruiter for their time.

3. Sell your abilities in your job application cover letter

When showcasing your skills in a cover letter, it’s crucial to go beyond mere statements and provide concrete evidence to demonstrate your abilities.

An effective approach is identifying the key skills mentioned in the job description. Additionally, select specific examples from your previous experiences that align with the identified accomplishments to strengthen your stance. You can draw on instances from your previous jobs, academic projects, or even extracurricular activities.

Moreover, if you aim to add credibility to your achievements, consider quantifying them . For instance, if you improved a process, mention the percentage of improvement.

Here’s an excellent example of how to utilize the above teachings in a job application cover letter:

“ In my previous role, I spearheaded weekly team meetings, improving communication flow and collaboration among team members. This resulted in a 20% increase in project efficiency, showcasing my ability to convey complex ideas in a clear and concise manner. “

4. Mention your hard and soft skills

Your skills are valuable assets that set you apart from other candidates . Incorporating your expertise into your cover letter clearly demonstrates how you can contribute to the company’s success.

A persuasive job application cover letter example will have the below essential technical skills:

  • Proficiency in programming languages.
  • Data analysis.
  • Know-how of Microsoft Word Suite.
  • Graphic Designing.

In addition to hard skills, your soft skills also play a significant role in conveying your effectiveness in the workplace to recruiters.

As you craft your job application cover letter, consider emphasizing the following soft skills:

  • Ability to convey information clearly, both verbally and in writing.
  • Open to collaborating with others to achieve common goals.
  • Flexible and open to change in the working environment.
  • Capability to identify challenges and develop practical solutions.

5. Prove your enthusiasm to the employers

Highlighting your accomplishments and skills is crucial for a job-winning cover letter . However, another critical element in establishing credibility is expressing enthusiasm to potential employers using impactful action words.

Clearly state why you are excited about the role. Is it the chance to work with a talented team or the alignment between your skills and the job requirements? Be specific .

Here’s an example to make it more clear:

“I am genuinely excited about the prospect of contributing my skills and passion to ABC Company. I am confident that my software development and my enthusiasm for driving innovative solutions make me an ideal fit for your team.”

Moreover, you can also mention specific achievements or projects of the company that inspire you. This demonstrates that you’ve researched and are genuinely interested in the organization.

For instance, you can add:

“ The innovative projects undertaken by ABC Company, particularly the groundbreaking development of the XYZ platform, resonate deeply with my career aspirations. “

6. Close your job application cover letter with the appropriate CTA

Ending your cover letter with a compelling Call to Action (CTA) is crucial in expressing your eagerness for further discussion. Consider the following steps when crafting the ending paragraph of your job application cover letter:

  • Express gratitude : Start by thanking the recruiter for their time and consideration. A simple “ Thank you for your consideration ” is a polite way to express appreciation.
  • Restate your interest : Remind the recruiters that you’re genuinely interested in the job by highlighting how your skills align with what they seek.
  • Showcase eagerness to discuss things further : Clearly express your readiness to discuss your qualifications and skills by providing your contact information.

For instance, you can mention:

“I am eager to further discuss how my skills and experiences align with (Company Name)’s goals. Please feel free to contact me at [your phone number] or [your email address] to schedule a convenient time for an interview.”
  • Conclude with a formal sign-off : Finally, conclude your job application cover letter with a formal salutation such as “ Sincerely, ” followed by your full name.

Job Resume Template

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Cover Letter for Job Application Key Takeaways

  • Research the company you’re applying to before crafting your cover letter.
  • Divide your cover letter into five sections: header, salutation, introductory and middle paragraph, and closing body.
  • Instead of mentioning your abilities, sell them to the recruiters using compelling words .
  • Constantly restate your enthusiasm for the role throughout your job application cover letter.
  • Conclude your cover letter by thanking the hiring manager and providing your contact information for further discussions .

Free Resume Templates to Download in Word

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WTO / Letters and Emails / Cover Letters / How to Write a Job Application Letter? (30 Best Examples)

How to Write a Job Application Letter? (30 Best Examples)

An Application Letter is a stand-alone letter that a person writes to the hiring managers of an organization to show interest in an available job position.

This letter contains all the necessary details of the job applicant, including their skills and experience at the job and their qualifications.

A job application letter usually contains details of a person’s interests, skills, levels of exposure and experience, expertise, and education. The applicant usually addresses the application letter to the hiring company to inform them of the benefits of selecting the said applicant for the job interview and employment.

The application letter is more detailed and personal than the cover letter and serves as the first interface between the employer and potential employee as it gives the impression of an almost physical meeting.

Here, the applicants have ample opportunities to sell themselves in the best light, stating past experiences that will suit the organization’s needs. An organization is always looking to employ the best asset in the job market, and only one that can convince them of this worth gets the job.

Hence, a job application letter is one of the most important documents that get to your potential employer, and you must write an excellent application letter that captivates the reader to the end. For this reason, this article breaks down application letter writing into basic steps, and we have provided application letter examples to guide you as you write yours.

Download Free Templates

Formal Editable General Job Application Letter Template 01 for Word File

Differences Between an Application Letter and a Cover Letter

A job applicant may find both cover letter and application letter as useful documents to present to the potential employer. However, these two documents differ in the following ways:

Purpose of the letter

A job application letter covers every detail of your professional qualifications, including years of experience and expert skills. It conveys your capacity to the potential employer and convinces the employer to interview and employ you. This is quite different from a cover letter, which only defines your qualifications and the letter’s aim.

Introduction

The cover letter gives brief details about the job applicant as it links the potential employer to the applicant’s curriculum vitae and is usually about three to four sentences long. For example:

“I am Victor Paul, applying for the Sales Representative position at Monte Crafts Limited. With my 7 years of experience in marketing and sales, I believe I will be suitable and fit for this position.”

However, an application letter contains more detail and depth, containing all necessary details of the skills and experiences that qualify the candidate for the position, for example:

“My name is Rose Peter, and I have been working at the Poll Intinent for 12 years as the head sales and organization manager. I have seen the company’s clientele rise from a meager number of 120 to about 4,500 customers. This result is due to my team’s diligence and hard work , as well as our communication and managing skills. I have obtained a dual degree in psychology and business management and several workshops that have honed my people management and communication skills.”

Work history

The cover letter is an introduction to the applicant’s curriculum vitae and contains little work history details. The application letter, however, contains a brief summary of the applicant’s qualifications, for example:

“In my years of service, I was opportune to head several marketing and sales interventions for my current company of employ, which were all successful. Hence, I believe that my skills in sales and marketing will come in handy in your company’s sales department.

Letter content

A cover letter is usually brief and has minimum information, which compels the reader to read through the rest of the application. In contrast, the application letter contains all information that the potential employer needs to know, including the applicant’s educational background, skillset, and experiences in similar workspaces. In addition, the application letter has details that are of interest to the potential employer and will pique their interest in you as an applicant.

Letter length

The cover letter is usually brief and consists of short sentences that link the employer to other application documents and the applicant’s qualifications, whereas the application letter is a bit lengthy and contains vital professional information, interests, and qualifications of the applicant.

Letter attachment

The cover letter is usually part of the applicant’s documents and goes alongside their curriculum vitae and recommendation letter(s) .

An application letter, however, can be a stand-alone document which you submit to the potential employer. It covers all details and information about the applicant that is of relevance to the employing organization.

Educational purposes

Applicants use cover letters to apply for job opportunities alongside their curriculum vitae, but you can use an application letter for much more than a job. Since an application letter is all-encompassing, you can also use it to apply for an internship or field attachment. It contains your career goals and gives the potential employer an insight into your core values.

When to Send Each Letter?

A cover letter is generally most acceptable when applying for a job with a vacancy. A cover letter goes alongside the curriculum vitae of the job applicant and other necessary documents, while an application letter comes in handy when you are applying for a job without an announced opening. Here, the letter contains more details that are professional because you are trying to convince the employer to consider you when there is a job opening that suits your qualifications.

How to Format Application Letter?

Your job application letter format largely depends on your mode of submission. When sending an application letter to a potential employer via email, its format is a little different from a printed or handwritten letter. We have compiled several detailed application letter examples to guide you as you write your job application letter.

Your application letter should contain the following:

This usually contains the applicant’s address as well as the potential employer’s address and the date. The header should have the name, residential address, phone contacts, and email addresses of the applicant and recipient of the letter. The header ends with the date. This is the format of any formal letter header, but when sending this letter through an email, you must include your contact after your signature to help the organization contact you to set up an interview or meeting.

This comes next after the header and entails politely addressing the potential employer. The most common salutation is, “Dear Mr./Sir/Ms.” followed by the person’s name. If you are unsure of the person’s gender, you can address the person’s official position. For example, “Dear Manager.”

Subject line

This single line serves as the letter’s title, carrying a summary of the purpose for writing the letter. It is usually in capital letters and underlined. For example, “Application Letter For Head Sales Manager.”

This is the letter’s opening paragraph, where you should write briefly about yourself and your qualifications. This must be colorful and rich without being too flashy as it determines the depth of the potential employer’s interest in your letter.

The body of the letter can be divided into three distinct paragraphs. Firstly, you should mention what job position you are applying for and where you saw the job vacancy. Then move on to the next paragraph, where you talk about specific skillsets and beneficial areas of expertise that can solve the employing company’s real and potential needs. The third paragraph is the concluding part of the body of the letter, where you are to appreciate the employer for their time sincerely.

In concluding a formal application letter, you must sign off politely using words such as “Yours sincerely” followed by your name and signature. If you send the letter via email, you must include your mobile contact after signature.

Sample Formats

Following are some sample for mats and examples for best understanding

Free Premium Assistant Professor Job Application Letter Sample 01 for Word Format

Writing a Perfect Application Letter

A job application letter is usually the first interface between a potential employer and a job applicant. Hence, you must strive to make the best first impression on your potential boss through your application letter.

This is why we have provided a breakdown of the necessary steps in writing a job application letter.

We have also provided application letter examples to help guide you as you write your application letter:

Describe your interest in the position

In the opening paragraph of your letter, you should begin by stating the exact position you are applying for and how you learned about that position in the organization. You must then state the qualifications and experiences that make you the best fit for that position and present yourself as apt and capable to function excellently in said position.

This is the first paragraph of the letter, and so it is most likely the paragraph that determines the interest of the potential employer in the rest of your letter hence it must be captivating and professional.

Highlight your experiences and qualifications

You must highlight all educational qualifications as well as professional experiences. This is especially important in your job application letter because you may not attach it to a copy of your resume, and so the application letter must be concise and yet have all the necessary details of your qualifications. It is helpful to have an outline of all your qualifications and then match them up with the needs of the position for which you are applying.

Emphasize your skills and abilities

In the job-seeking market, your soft skills and various unique abilities in your field set you apart from the crowd. Hence, it is wise to emphasize these skills and abilities. It will do you good to investigate the organization and know what skills are of interest to them. When you achieve this, you will capture the employer’s interest by emphasizing the skillsets that the organization needs in order to thrive.

Include aspects of your personality

The employer wants to know you beyond your educational qualifications and professional experiences, so positive traits such as hard work, diligence, and team player come to play. Mention aspects of your personality that will raise your score with the potential employer. This is a necessary part of your job application letter.

Express your appreciation

Sincerely appreciate the potential employer for taking the time to review your letter before concluding the job application letter.

Sample Letters

Below are two job application letter examples that will guide you when you write your own:

Lois Mende 134 Jenney Street, New Orleans 129 009-8762 [email protected]

Orin Kendel Hiring Manager, Jed and Jen 754 Olin Street New Orleans

September 23, 2021

Dear Mrs. Orin,

APPLICATION FOR THE POSITION OF MARKETING CONSULTANT

In response to the advert in the New Orleans Daily Newspaper of September 22, 2021, I am applying for the position of Project Researcher. I have held the position of head researcher in the Orleanslad for 21 years, and I believe that with my experience and skills, I will be able to contribute meaningfully to the Berkley project in your company.

I have a bachelor’s degree in resource management and urban planning and another in research methods. I have served as head of several research projects, including the humid post rate of disease and infection in New Orleans, the Beta research project, Foodborne disease, and the animal Adaptation to Urbanization Research of 2004. I have several training certificates for each research project and a certificate for each year’s project mining workshop.

I hope to improve my skills through new experiences of research, especially the proposed Water Cleansing project in 2022 that your organization plans to begin. My core values are diligence, hard work, and team building. With these, I believe that I will best suit the position of research manager.

I am sincerely grateful that you took the time to read through this letter, and I hope to hear from you soon.

Yours sincerely

Lois Mende.

Maureen Peter 345 Kelvin Street Alabama – 12 342-9099-098 [email protected] Wisdom Samson Alabama Mining City Alabama-12

July 12, 2019.

APPLICATION N FOR THE POST OF MINING ENGINEER

My name is Wisdom Samson, and I want to express my interest in your company’s mining engineer position. In my previous jobs, I conducted various mining activities such as researching the various land mines and mining methods and planning and mining several ores from sites. Due to my diligence and work experience, I consider myself a great fit for this position.

I obtained my bachelor’s degree from the prestigious Alabama School of Engineering and have since obtained an MSc and Ph.D. in Field Mining and Processing. I have served as head of the Ore Processing Unit for the past eight years in Uncle and Mines. I hope to harness all my experiences and skills in achieving new mining fits in Alabama via your company.

My core values are doggedness and endless learning. I hope these values can come to play in the Alabama Mines team, and I hope to learn from all the projects set before the company.

I am extremely grateful you reviewed my letter and hope to hear favorable news from you.

Yours sincerely,

Maureen Peter 342-9099-098

7 Best Practices to Follow

The following tips will help you create an exceptional application letter, especially using the above application letter example as a template to write your application letter:

Review information

Most companies look to employ more people when they are taking on a new project and hence will naturally consider the applicants who will help in such projects. Therefore, you must research the company’s ongoing projects and think of ways to serve in such projects. You must be able to sell yourself as the best candidate for the position and company to secure the position.

Use a professional format

It is very important to keep up with the professional application writing format. Hence the reason for the job application sample letters. This makes you a diligent professional and speaks highly of you to the employer.

As much as you want to be detailed, keeping the letter brief and concise is very important. You must focus only on the most important aspects of the letter and keep on track without flamboyant words.

Review the job listing keywords

Most organizations will include certain skills and qualifications as requirements for a certain job, and so you must carefully note these and emphasize the keywords when writing a job application to such an organization. As in the application letter examples above, common keywords include

“communication skills, punctuality, time management skills, diligence, and hard work.”

Always write one

Always write an application letter for every job position that interests you. This is unless the employing organization specifically asks you not to do so. However, an application letter improves your chances of obtaining the job as the employer gets to interact with you almost as though in a physical meeting.

Sell yourself

Employers search for the best employees there are, so you must sell yourself in your application letter as the best in your field. This involves emphasizing your strengths and qualifications, especially those that are beneficial to the organization.

The application letter gives the employer the first impression of you, so you must make this impression positive and flawless. Your letter must be impeccable and free of errors, and you must also stick with the rules of writing a formal business letter . Proofread your letter as many times as you can to correct any errors that may be. Write the first draft as a sample, proofread and then write the final draft of the job application letter.

Final Thoughts

A job application letter is a necessary document in applying for a job position and must be formal and professional. It is, most times, the first interface between the employer and applicant, and so it must be flawless and free of errors. It must represent the applicant as capable of the job position and the best in that career path. The job application letter must follow the patterns of a formal letter and must include all major components of a job application letter. This may be time-consuming and burdensome, but with the application letter examples, sample letters, and templates in this article, you now have a guide that you can follow as you write your job application letter.

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How to write a job application email that gets a reply

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First things first: Collect your candidate information

How to write a job application email in 6 steps, 5 email templates for job applications, your email’s first impression.

Imagine you're surfing a job board and you finally see it: your dream job. 

The adrenaline kicks in, but so does the realization that your first contact with the company sets the stage for your professional relationship. This is your initial greeting, and you need to draft a convincing job application email that shows off your experience and ultimately secures that all-important interview.

In the digital age, a simple email carries the weight of a first impression . Think of it as your digital handshake — firm, confident, and memorable. Crafting that perfect email is an art that opens doors to opportunities and sets the stage for your next career move . 

Your email for job applications isn’t just a platform to showcase your professional development . It’s about giving a holistic view of who you are and how that aligns with a company's core values , even though you have limited space. 

But the ultimate goal is to send in your application, and that means collecting all necessary documents and information the job posting asks for. Before penning your thoughts, make sure you have these essentials:

Cover letter: According to a survey from recruiting software Jobvite, 31% of job seekers want companies to remove cover letters from the hiring process . But even if you fall into this group, cover letters are an important step. Consider them your elevator pitch in document form. 

You’ll accentuate your strengths while expressing your enthusiasm for the role. Double-check your cover letter to tailor it to the job description, highlight your accomplishments, and make it more than a regurgitation of your resume.

  • Resume: Your resume represents your professional journey, showcasing your work experience, skills, and educational background. Make sure it’s free from typos and informative without including too much. Remember to choose the right type of resume and rename the file when you attach it, preferably with your full name and the position title.
  • Portfolio or work samples: If you're venturing into fields like graphic design, writing, or any other creative domain, make a portfolio that speaks louder than words. It should encapsulate your style, versatility, and expertise. Make sure it’s up-to-date and mirrors the requirements of the job listing. A website-based portfolio might work for some positions, but others could ask for a PDF.
  • Additional information: Job postings sometimes come with unique demands. They may want to know about certifications, years of experience, or even niche skills. If the job posting lists any specific asks, provide them. This showcases that you’ve read, understood, and met the criteria, demonstrating attention to detail .

According to an eye-tracking study from job aggregate Ladders, recruiters only spend 7.4 seconds looking at each resume . If you want to make a lasting impression and stand out in the job search , every detail counts. Here’s a guide to ensuring recruiters and hiring managers notice you:

1. Include a clear and concise subject line

Your subject line sets the tone. It's the first thing a recruiter sees and often determines whether they’ll even open the email at all. Make it concise and relevant, incorporating the job title and your name, like “Graphic Designer Role — Alex Smith.” This straightforward approach shows you respect the hiring manager's time and helps you stand out in a sea of vague “job application” subject lines.

Beyond the basic info, consider the things that make the role unique. If the job posting emphasizes a specific skill or requirement, try incorporating it, like “Digital Marketing Expert with SEO Specialization — Jamie Carter.” Remember, clarity trumps creativity in this space, so when in doubt, keep it simple.

2. Write the body of your email

Kick off with a professional yet approachable salutation. “To whom it may concern” works if you don’t have the hiring manager or recruiter’s name. But if you do, personalize it to let them know you’re paying attention. 

The opening paragraph should be your hook. Instead of a generic introduction, dive straight into the reasons why you're the candidate they’ve been searching for. Link your experience and skills with the job description to show you've done your homework. Something like “I am a growth expert with 10+ years of experience” is much more effective than “I am interested in the job you posted.”

After the salutation, it's all about engaging the reader. Share a short, relevant anecdote that connects you to the company's mission or the specific role. If it emphasizes innovation , talk about a time you thought outside the box to pioneer a new method or strategy. Prove you’re not looking for any job: you’re looking for this job.

mans-hands-writing-on-tablet-with-electronic-pen-job-application-email

3. Make a pitch

A pitch isn’t about bragging. It’s about succinctly conveying what makes you unique. Use the body of your email to highlight a couple of key achievements or experiences that align with the role. Maybe you boosted sales by 30% in your last job or led a team that executed a successful project. 

After your initial pitch, tie it back to the company. Explain how your work accomplishments will directly benefit the team. If you boosted those sales by 30%, explain how that experience will transfer over to this new position. Connect your past victories to their future successes. 

You don’t have to write a full cover letter in the body of your email (unless that’s what the posting asks for). Just use the space to further explain your candidacy and motivation .

4. Provide your contact information

Ensure potential employers can easily reach you. Even if you’ve included your contact information in your resume, your email should have your phone number, professional email address, and your LinkedIn profile .

Beyond the basics, make yourself available for follow-up questions or discussions. Offer a time frame when you’re most reachable, like “Available for calls between 2 PM and 4 PM on weekdays.” It not only shows initiative but subtly communicates respect for their time by eliminating back-and-forth scheduling.

5. Rename your resume files

This might sound like a minor detail, but your file names are more important than you think. A resume with a title like “Resume1” or “MarketingCV_final” doesn’t scream professionalism and makes it harder for recruiters to keep track of your docs. Keep it simple with a format like “AlinaJones_ProjectManager” to make your resume stand out .

If you're submitting multiple documents, like a cover letter or a list of references , ensure they all follow a consistent naming pattern. This looks more professional and helps recruiters organize your materials. Think “AlinaJones_CoverLetter” and “AlinaJones_References.” It’s clean and shows attention to detail.

mans-hand-with-a-ring-typing-on-laptop-job-application-email

6. Add your portfolio

For jobs where showing beats telling, the quality of your portfolio is critical. Include your portfolio as an attachment or as a link, depending on your preference and what the job posting asks for. Just ensure that whatever you share represents your best work.

In a 2019 study, Mailchimp found that the average email open rate is only 21% — meaning recruiters might not read your email at all. That’s why your application needs to rise above the noise. Save time and write the best application possible with these tailor-made job application templates:

1. Entry-level job application example

You're at the starting line of your professional journey, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have value as an applicant. Your motivation and educational experience can still be enough to show employers you’re a good candidate.

This sample letter can help you express your enthusiasm for the role you’re applying for and showcase the skills and experiences that make you the perfect fit:

Subject line: [Full name] – [Position]

To whom it may concern,

I’m [full name], a passionate [field of interest], writing to express my interest in the entry-level [position] at [company name]. I discovered the role on [job board/company website] and am drawn to it because of [company's mission/vision/reputation].

My educational journey equipped me with [relevant skills], further enhanced by my [previous job] at [other company name]. This experience instilled a passion for crafting innovative solutions that align with [company mission].

I am attaching my resume detailing my qualifications. Thank you for considering my application. 

Sincerely, 

[Full name]

[Contact information]

woman-writing-on-notebook-while-looking-at-laptop-job-application-email

2. Mid-career job application example

You have a wealth of experience under your belt and are ready for a new challenge. This sample letter will help you articulate your accomplishments and how they align with the new role you’re seeking:

Dear [hiring manager’s name],

I am an accomplished [job title] with [number] years of professional experience. I came across the position at [company name] on [job board/company website], and I'm excited about the possibility of contributing to [company’s project or goal].

My journey in [industry] involves [relevant skills and responsibilities], with significant contributions to companies like [other company names]. I feel confident that my expertise can bring valuable insights to your team.

My resume, attached for your review, provides more detailed information about my qualifications and achievements. I look forward to discussing our mutual goals and aspirations.

[Full name] 

3. Change of field sample job application

Making a career change is daunting, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. Your diverse background brings a unique perspective to the table, so use this chance to explain your transferable skills and experience. This sample email will help you highlight your expertise and express your eagerness to enter a new field:

Subject line: [Full Name] – [Position]

Hello [hiring manager’s name]

My name is [full name], and I’m applying for the [job title] opening at [company name]. I saw this role on [job board/company website] and it immediately stood out to me because [company or position details].

Having served as a [previous role], I deeply understand [relevant skill or specialty]. This foundation, combined with my recent experience with [relevant skill or specialty], equips me to [listed job requirement]. I’m ready to offer a unique perspective to your team.

Please refer to the attached documents for a comprehensive look at my qualifications. I'm available for a call this week or next to delve deeper into how my background can be an asset to your projects.

4. Return to workforce

Taking a break from your career is sometimes necessary, and that doesn’t make you a lesser candidate when you decide to return. You don’t have to go into detail about your career break in your application, but it is good to mention so hiring managers know you’re honest and transparent . 

This sample letter will help you communicate your readiness to get back to work and your enthusiasm for the role or industry you’re re-entering:

Subject line: [Full Name] – [Position] Re-entering the [Industry] Scene

I’m an experienced [job title] interested in the open role at [company name]. With a decade's worth of experience with [skill], notably at [other company name], I have a proven track record in executing, delegating, and prioritizing tasks efficiently. I'm prepared to merge my prior expertise with fresh insights for your upcoming projects.

Over the past few years, I took a break in my career, and I’m eager to re-enter the workforce. During this time, I stayed up-to-date on the industry, [subject] in particular, and I’m also [note any accomplishments from your break].

I've attached my resume detailing my journey and accomplishments. Please let me know if you need further information.

5. Recent graduate application letter example

If you've recently graduated and are ready to embark on your career journey, don’t be afraid to state that in your application. Your knowledge is fresh, and that’s an asset. This sample letter will help you highlight your academic achievements and relevant experiences as you express your excitement for the role:

Subject line: [Full Name] – [Degree]

I am [full name], a [year] [degree] graduate, and I’m reaching out regarding the role at [company name], which I found on [job board/company website].

My academic achievements and internship at [previous company] gave me a robust foundation in [relevant skill or specialty]. I'm eager to apply these skills to enhance brand engagement at [company name] while continuing to grow my expertise.

Enclosed, please find my resume and relevant documents. I look forward to discussing how I can contribute to [company project/goal].

Navigating the job market is no easy task, but a compelling job application email can be your ticket to standing out. Remember, it's all about showcasing your strengths, experiences, and passion — so, put your best foot forward and make every word count.

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320+ Free cover letter examples (+expert guides)

320+ Free cover letter examples (+expert guides)

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A general cover letter example can serve as a great starting point for your application. If you’re feeling stuck, check out this copyable cover letter sample that you can copy and paste to modify for your own experience. You can also change the cover letter template at any time.

Dear Mr. North,

My experience of managing teams through change has taught me that if you put people first, everything else will fall into place. I led a team through a turbulent 18 months of downsizing at Labsworth, while a blistering period of growth at Pine Inc. provided an entirely different experience. No matter what the trajectory of the company is, there are lessons to be learned. Upon the completion of my MBA last year, I understood that I wanted to pursue a management role with an international dimension. I have never used my native Spanish in a business context and feel that your expansion into South America will allow me to employ my change management skills in a cultural setting that is familiar to me. In a start-up, it is important to employ people with both operational and commercial expertise. I have negotiated contracts worth $9.5m, improved delivery efficiencies by 12%, redesigned warehouse packing flows, overseen staff disputes, and driven profitability to industry-leading levels. In my last year at Pine, I spearheaded three initiatives to improve the net profit from 5.2% to 6.1%. Profits improve when everything is considered. I believe in letting my teams dictate the direction of their development. I have experience working with HR to design training modules, something that is particularly useful in a start-up. I enjoy the creativity and challenge of working out how to get the most out of a diverse set of professionals. 60% of my former team have enjoyed promotions over the past five years.

I cannot wait to find out more about your international expansion plans and hope that I am well-placed to assist.

Lara Fernandez

Our best sample cover letters

Check out our most popular cover letter samples below.

Internship cover letter example 

Use this Internship cover letter example to finish your application and get hired fast – no frustration, no guesswork. This cover letter example is specifically designed for Internship positions in 2024. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes.

Internship cover letter example

Accounting cover letter example 

Use this Accounting cover letter example to finish your application and get hired fast – no frustration, no guesswork. This cover letter example is specifically designed for Accounting positions in 2024. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes.

Accounting cover letter example

Graduate cover letter example

You’re a newly minted college graduate. After years of hard work, you have your diploma in hand and are ready to leap into the workforce. Congratulations! It’s time to get your job applications in order, but it can be a daunting task. Relax! Our graduate cover letter example and writing guide will make it easier to apply for your 2024 dream job.

Graduate cover letter example

Administrative assistant cover letter example

Use this Administrative Assistant cover letter example to finish your application and get hired fast – no frustration, no guesswork. This cover letter example is specifically designed for Administrative Assistant positions in 2024. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes.

Administrative Assistant cover letter example

Teacher cover letter example

You know how to introduce yourself on parent-teacher nights, but how best to introduce yourself to the principal when you want a new job? The guide below will show you how to write an A+ teacher cover letter that makes the grade.

Teacher cover letter example

Nursing cover letter example

If you're empathetic, practical, and caring, the world of nursing is calling your name. Here's how to write a nurse cover letter that will turn the hiring manager's head.

Nursing cover letter example

Software engineer cover letter example

Use this Software Engineer cover letter example to finish your application and get hired fast – no frustration, no guesswork. This cover letter example is specifically designed for Software Engineer positions in 2024. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes.

Software Engineer cover letter example

Perfect cover letter structure

The perfect cover letter should have a clear and organized structure to make sure it highlights why you’re the right candidate for the job. Here’s what you should include to impress employers and increase your chances of landing the interview:

  • Header: The cover letter header is the space at the top, or sometimes the side, of your cover letter that contains your name, contact information, and any relevant links. The header serves a vital role in identifying your cover letter and helping to create an attractive presentation.
  • Greeting: The greeting of the cover letter is the way you address the person who will be reading it. We recommend using the hiring manager’s name whenever possible to establish a friendly, yet professional tone.
  • Introduction: The introduction consists of the opening lines of your cover letter that serve to grab the hiring manager’s attention and encourage them to read the rest of your cover letter. The introduction should also include the company name and the role for which you are applying.
  • Body (middle part): The body paragraphs are the middle part of your cover letter that give you the space and flexibility to discuss your accomplishments and key qualifications for the role.
  • Conclusion & sign off: The conclusion is the final sentence of the cover letter that generally includes a call to action. This sentence expresses your enthusiasm for the job and politely encourages the hiring manager to schedule an interview.

You can also view our full guide on how to write a cover letter.

Science Teacher cover letter example

What makes a good cover letter example

A good cover letter example contains a combination of factors that work together to present you as the best possible candidate for the role. Remember that a cover letter sample is a starting point and should always be customized for your specific experience and the job you are applying to. In general, here are a few things to pay attention to that will make your cover letter stand out from the rest:

  • The right template : An attractive cover letter is more likely to be noticed by employers. The best cover letter template is one that combines your own professional personality with the brand and image of the company you’re applying to. Our adaptable cover letter sample can serve as a reference when creating your header.
  • Proper formatting : The right formatting makes your cover letter easier to read, and in turn, keeps the hiring manager interested for longer. Here are a few do’s and don’ts for great cover letter formatting .
  • Keep a balance of white space to text
  • Use paragraph breaks and proper punctuation
  • Create an attractive header at the top of the page
  • Adjust the margins to cram in more text
  • Go overboard with flashy colors unless appropriate in your industry
  • Forget to proofread for spelling and grammar mistakes
  • A customized greeting : Your cover letter greeting should use the hiring manager’s name whenever possible. If you can’t find the name of a specific person, make sure to customize the greeting for the company or team.
  • A professional email address : Your email address should be a combination of your first and last name (with numbers if you have a common name). Unprofessional email addresses are a big mistake.
  • Clear structure : Even though a cover letter is one of the more freeform parts of your application, it should still appear organized. Use the sections of our cover letter example above as a model for your own.
  • Detailed examples : The writing of your cover letter should give concrete examples of your skills, qualifications, and accomplishments. Make sure to use numbers and statistics whenever possible.

Cover letter examples FAQs

What to write in a cover letter.

Your cover letter is an opportunity to expand on the skills and experiences described in your resume. Instead of simply repeating what’s written there, make sure to add new details and examples that are relevant for the role and will encourage the hiring manager to contact you for an interview. 

How do you start a cover letter?

There are plenty of ways to start a cover letter , including with an anecdote, a statement about your skills or passion, or your connection to the company. Check out our adaptable cover letter samples for more ideas to get you started writing your own cover letter.

What are 3 things you should include in a cover letter?

Three things that should always be included in a cover letter are:

  • Your name and contact information
  • The hiring manager’s name
  • The name of the company and the role you for which you’re applying

How long should a cover letter be?

Ideally, a cover letter's length should be between 250-400 words. A shorter cover letter may not be able to capture your skills, while a longer one may become tiresome to read. A cover letter should always fit on one page. See our adaptable cover letter examples for details.

What are common cover letter phrases?

Every cover letter should be unique but a few phrases you may find useful are:

  • I am excited to apply to the role of (Job Title) at (Company Name).
  • I am looking forward to the possibility of an interview.
  • Feel free to contact me by phone or email at (Your Phone Number) or (Email Address).
  • Sincerely, (Your Name)

What words should not be used in a cover letter?

We recommend avoiding “ To Whom It May Concern ” as it sounds impersonal and outdated. You should also avoid any language that sounds cold, arrogant, or entitled. Our cover letter samples can serve as an example of the right tone to use.

What does an employer look for in a cover letter?

Employers use cover letters to gauge whether you’re truly interested in the position and if you’ve understood the requirements. Make sure to consult the job description before writing your cover letter.

What is a simple example of a cover letter?

If you’re looking for a simple example of a cover letter, you’ve come to the right place! Here are some of our favorite simple cover letter samples:

Student cover letter example

Use this Student cover letter example to finish your application and get hired fast – no frustration, no guesswork. This cover letter example is specifically designed for Student positions in 2024. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes.

Student cover letter example

Driver cover letter example

A driver cover letter goes far deeper than the mechanics of the job. Share the personality that makes you great at what you do.

Driver cover letter example

Customer service representative cover letter example

Use this Customer Service Representative cover letter example to finish your application and get hired fast – no frustration, no guesswork. This cover letter example is specifically designed for Customer Service Representative positions in 2024. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes.

Customer Service Representative cover letter example

Free professionally designed templates

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Cover letter templates and examples for 2024.

Cover Letter Templates and Examples for 2024

Many job seekers overlook the potential impact of a cover letter, but it’s often the key to securing that coveted interview and ultimately landing a new job or project. Writing a compelling cover letter is your opportunity to showcase your enthusiasm, reveal a bit of your personality, and highlight the unique skills that make you the best candidate for the position.

Table of Contents

  • The value of a well-written cover letter 
  • The benefits of using a cover letter template 

4 tips for customizing a cover letter template

Cover letter templates to use, the value of a well-written cover letter.

A great cover letter serves as a bridge between your resume and a job posting. It highlights how your skills and work experience align with the role requirements and needs of the organization.

This commonly under-used professional document allows you to:

  • Expand upon the information in your professional resume
  • Offer meaningful context around your most relevant strengths
  • Share specific examples of key accomplishments
  • Illustrate how your skills and achievements relate to the job 

Investing time in creating a thoughtful and tailored cover letter shows prospective employers and clients that you’re serious about the opportunity and willing to go the extra mile. 

But for many job seekers, getting started is the hardest part. By using a professional cover letter template as a foundation, you can more quickly:

  • Develop a customized, persuasive pitch
  • Effectively communicate your value to potential employers or clients
  • Express your strong interest in the opportunity 

In the coming sections, we’ll share free cover letter templates and examples to help you capture a hiring manager’s attention.

The benefits of using a cover letter template

The best cover letter templates offer a structured framework for developing a well-organized document. Our cover letter templates can save you time and give you a significant jump start. Rather than beginning from scratch, you can focus your efforts on customizing the content to fit your specific situation and the requirements of the particular job.

Cover letter templates can help you with the following:

Structure and organization

Templates give you a clear structure for your cover letter, with sections for:

  • Customized salutation
  • Opening paragraph
  • Body paragraphs
  • Closing paragraph and sign-off

A template can help you organize your thoughts so that your letter flows logically and seamlessly from point to point—you won’t need to worry about your cover letter design or formatting.

Professionalism

Good cover letter templates meet the expectations of potential employers or clients by adhering to standard business letter formatting conventions. By utilizing a template, you aid in making sure that your cover letter is as polished, persuasive, and professional as possible.

Customization

While templates provide a general framework, they’re easily tailored to fit your unique circumstance. Whether you’re applying for a couple dream jobs or an array of opportunities, starting with a good cover letter template can help you be consistent in your job applications. Modify the language, add or remove sentences or paragraphs as needed, and adjust the tone to fit each company you contact.

Confidence boost

Writer’s block is common. And penning a letter about yourself can be especially challenging and intimidating. Knowing that you have a solid foundation to build upon can relieve some of the stress associated with the cover letter writing process.

Customizing a sample cover letter or template is critical. You’ll want to tailor the following based on your experience and the job you’re applying to:

  • Your language and tone
  • The accomplishments and abilities you spotlight
  • Specific industry terms

Doing so will help you create a narrative that resonates with the recipient. Consider these tips:

1. Thoroughly research the company and position 

Before customizing your cover letter template, thoroughly research the company. This can include:

  • Visiting the company’s website and LinkedIn page
  • Reading their mission statement
  • Exploring their products, services, and leadership profiles 

Look for information about the company’s organizational culture, values, and goals, too. Review their LinkedIn profile page and do some additional web sleuthing to learn about their primary competitors. This research will help you better understand what the company seeks in a candidate. It will also allow you to target your language and examples to fit the company’s needs, tone, and brand worldview.

2. Dig into the job description

Make note of the key qualifications, skills, and responsibilities listed. Use this information to highlight how your experiences and abilities fit the role. Incorporating relevant industry-specific verbiage throughout the cover letter is also helpful. 

Using keywords from the job ad in your cover letter (when applicable, of course) can help your letter pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) that scan for relevant terms and qualifications. By incorporating keywords from the job description, you increase the chances that your application is recognized as a match for the position. 

3. Win the name game

If possible, address your cover letter to the hiring manager or project manager by name. This personal touch shows your attention to detail—and it’s attention-grabbing. If the job post doesn’t include a contact name, visit the company website or LinkedIn to try to find the right person. If you can’t find a name, use a professional salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Department] Team." 

4. Slow down and proofread

Before submitting your customized cover letter, thoroughly proofread your document for clarity, conciseness, and typos. (Be sure to triple-check the job title, hiring manager’s name and spelling, and company name.) It’s all too easy to make mistakes if you move too quickly. Read your letter aloud, as this can help you notice any awkward or unclear sentences. 

Make sure your letter is to the point, avoiding overly lengthy paragraphs or repetitive information. Consider asking a trusted friend, family member, or mentor to edit your cover letter and provide feedback. You could also work with a professional cover letter writer on Upwork for additional support.

The following cover letter templates can help you create a cover letter tailored to your specific career stage and situation. 

Cover letter templates by career stage

General cover letter template A versatile template suitable for customizing to a wide array of industries and positions. When personalized appropriately, this cover letter format can be adapted to showcase your unique skills, experiences, and qualifications for each role you target. ‍

Entry-level cover letter template Ideal for recent college graduates or those with more limited work experience, focusing heavily on transferable skills and academic achievements. ‍

Mid-career cover letter template Intended for professionals with at least several years of experience, emphasizing career progression and key achievements.  ‍

Career change cover letter template Designed for those looking to break into a different field, highlighting transferable skills, adaptability, and passion for the new industry.

Cover letter by role

The following role-specific cover letter templates can help you align your application with the core requirements and responsibilities of the position, demonstrating your industry-specific skills, knowledge, and expertise.

  • Virtual assistant cover letter template
  • AI developer cover letter
  • UX designer cover letter template
  • Bookkeeper cover letter template
  • SEO specialist cover letter template

‍ If you are communicating with a hiring manager for a job through the Upwork platform, please note that sharing your personal contact information, such as email address, phone number, or LinkedIn profile, is not permitted in cover letters or at any time prior to the start of a contract. Additionally, all pre-contract communication should take place through the Upwork Messages feature. Learn more about using Upwork Messages here , and see more details on sharing information on Upwork here .

sample of an official job application letter

Author Spotlight

Upwork is the world’s work marketplace that connects businesses with independent talent from across the globe. We serve everyone from one-person startups to large, Fortune 100 enterprises with a powerful, trust-driven platform that enables companies and talent to work together in new ways that unlock their potential.

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What to Write in an Email When Sending a Resume [+ Examples & Tips]

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In today’s world, there are many ways to submit a job application: in-person, job-search platforms such as CakeResume and LinkedIn , and the company's official website. Despite that, email to send resume is still relevant as many recruiters require job-seekers to email job applications and documents.

As you send your resume by email, the content of email with a resume is exceptionally important since it is the first thing that recruiters will see. 

So, if you’re wondering what to write in an email when sending a resume, in this article, we will guide you to write an effective job application email that is eye-catching and convincing.

Table of Contents

What to Write in an Email When Sending a Resume

Simple job application email samples, tips for writing an email to send a resume for job applications.

When Considering what to write in an email when sending a resume, think of the elements that need to be included in it. Each element plays a role and conveys a different message. We compile the following list for you to format your mail properly as you email your resume. 

Here are the 7 key elements for a resume mail format:

1) A Clear Subject Line

The subject line is the first things recruiters look at and determine whether they will open your job application email or not. So when sending your job application email, ask yourself if the subject line is clear enough.

You can use this format to write your subject line: 

[Application] + [Job Position You're Applying For] at [COMPANY NAME] + [Your Name].

Let’s take a look at this simple job application email sample:

Example of an email subject line for sending a resume #1

 [Application] Marketing Manager at ABC Company — Frank Davies

Keep in mind that some job vacancies ask applicants to use specific guidelines when sending resume via email, so make sure to follow that.

2) Greetings

There are various ways to greet when sending an email with a resume. While you can be creative, it's better to be direct and professional. Find out who you’ll send this email to, and if you don’t know the name of the recipient, you can simply use “hiring manager” or “Recruitment Department at XYZ company.

3) Self Introduction and Objectives

Start off your email by stating who you are and why you are writing the email. The job application email sample is indicated at the bottom of this article, but to summarize, the opening statement(s) of your email should be a brief presentation of your application. Here are some examples of how to write a self-introduction and email objectives when sending your resume via email:

Examples of introduction when emailing a resume:

  • “My name is Roger Jones. I’m writing this email to express my interest in the job vacancy at Valcor”
  • “My name is Roger Jones, and I am submitting my application for the current job opening as Financial Analyst at Valcor.”
  • “My name is Roger Jones. I came across Valcor's job ads on CakeResume, and I am keen on applying for the Marketing Specialist position."

The first section/paragraph of your job application email should not be more than three sentences. Keep it short and straight to the point, and remember to avoid using possessive pronouns when referring to the company you’re applying for (e.g., “your company”); you should use the company names instead.

4) Reasons for Applying and Your Accomplishments

After the greeting and the introduction, your next paragraph should talk about your qualifications and why you are interested in working for them. You can also let them know what’s the job description that makes you want to apply for the position.

Here are some guidelines for you:

  • Accomplishments
  • Relevant work experience
  • Qualifications directly related to the job description’s requirements

You can also include your most outstanding license or certification or even extracurricular activities like relevant internships, achievements in uni, and relevant courses.

However, don’t go in-depth! You want to write a brief summary of your relevant accomplishments to catch the attention of recruiters as well as intrigue them to open your resume.

5) Proposal to Meet in Person

This part is the last section before closing and signing your name. A proposal to meet in person is a sign of enthusiasm and work-ready. Simply state that you’re willing to meet to have further discussion about the vacancy and qualifications. You can also let them know that you welcome any questions they have about your resume or experience.

6) Attached Resume

Employers usually require you to send your resume in either a Word or pdf format via mail. If they don't specify their preference for the format of your resume files, send your resume to the HR in PDF format to avoid technical issues.

7) Professional Signature with Contact Details

Finish your job application email with a professional e-signature, name, and contact details like phone number and email address. This gives a personal and professional touch to your email to which your resume is attached.

what-to-write-when-sending-a-resume-via-email

Now that we have discussed the important elements to include in a job application email, let's review three sample emails for reference. These examples can guide you not only on the formatting of the email but also on what sentences to write when you send your resume.

Job application email sample #1

Subject: Job Application - Operations Manager, Job ID #27423 - Michael Wilson

Dear Mr. Adams,

My name is Michael Wilson, an experience operation manager with three years of experience. I came across Vallo's job post on CakeResume and am interested in applying for the vacancy. I have attached my resume and cover letter to this email for your consideration.

For the past 10 years, I have handled many capital projects, operations management, and process improvement. I want to be part of a team that will make the mission of Vallo Inc. a reality. Moreover, I believe Vallo has the financial strength and stability to allow me to gain more expertise.

I welcome the opportunity to have a one-on-one meeting with you to learn more about the opening position. I can be reached at [email protected] .

Thank you for your time and consideration

Sincerely, [Signature] Michael Wilson Operations Manager [email protected] (+81) 0000-2382

Job application email sample #2

Subject: Marketing Assistant Application - Frederick Walters

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am interested in applying for the position of marketing assistant at Tello Inc. My resume and cover letter are attached to this email for your consideration.

For the past eight years, I have been responsible for creating marketing plans for various companies. Moreover, I have executed marketing plans on my own and have provided marketing advice to clients. I believe these qualifications will benefit Tello’s short-term and long-term goals.

I appreciate you taking the time to review my resume and my cover letter. Looking forward to hearing from you.

Frederick Walters Marketing Specialist  [email protected] (+15) 0000-3219

Sample email when mailing a resume #3

Subject: [APPLICATION] Graphic Designer Internship at Be Creative - Lester Williams

My name is Lester Williams. I graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology with a bachelor's degree in Graphic Design. As I came across your job posting on CakeResume, I’m really keen on being a part of your company.  I have recently worked for Eternal Publishing, and I am very eager to apply my skills and knowledge acquired from this internship to contribute to Be Creative. 

I have attached my resume and portfolio for your review and consideration

Thank you for reviewing my application. 

Looking forward to hearing about any steps or procedures.

Lester Williams  [email protected] (+4) 0000-4657 www.linkedin.com/in/lester_williams

CakeResume is a resume builder tool that provides you with hundreds of free resume templates and examples that help showcase your best qualifications to land your dream job. Try our free resume builder now!

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Put your cover letter in your email when sending your resume.

While you can use your cover letter as a job application email, in most cases, you just need to send a short message to notify the recruiter about your application. Hence, it’s recommended to add a cover letter to your email when sending a resume to help companies understand your work experience and aspirations in a more comprehensive way. 

Use a professional-looking email address.

While what to write in the mail when sending a resume is important, so is the “who,” and that is your email address. Using your first and last name as an email address is a safe practice. If you need to include numbers, try to use a few digits and make sure these don’t have inappropriate associations (e.g., 666).

Address the hiring manager by their name.

For better results, it is best to write the recruiter’s name in the greeting while sending your resume. If you can’t find their name, stick to writing “Hiring manager.”

Be straight to the point and concise.

As shown in each job application email sample, your body text should be concise and clear. Remember that what you say when emailing a resume is to introduce yourself and briefly state your motivation and qualifications.

Use the correct resume file format.

Before you attach your resume to the email and send it out to HR, make sure your resume is in the correct format. Some companies specify what file format they want, but when there is no such requirement/instruction, sending in your resume in PDF format is the safest option.

Thoroughly check your mail, including the subject line, the email body, and your signature, for any mistakes when you are about to send out your job application email.

Send a test email message to yourself.

An excellent practice is to have a preview of how your email looks to the receiver, so send a test email to yourself to see if your resume mail and its format are on-point.

Add a LinkedIn URL, personal website, or portfolio link.

Knowing what to say when emailing a resume is important, but if you have a presentable and eye-catching portfolio, recruiters will surely take your application into consideration. So don’t be shy away from including them.

Key Takeaways

When sending your resume via email, the email is like a ‘preface’ of your application, so knowing what to say in every part of the email and how to format it is important to get your application reviewed. Make sure to format your email properly when sending an email, the best practice is to follow any format recruiters ask for when submitting your application. If there are no specifications on formatting, follow the rules for general business letters when you send your resume via email.

Remember, job application emails sent to HR for your job application should highlight your strengths and qualifications like a cover letter but shouldn't be as long as one, don’t forget to include a properly formatted resume as an attachment.

Your resume can be made with a free resume builder like CakeResume, which also provides you with thousands of ready-to-use resume templates . With simple drag-drop action, you can create an eye-catching and compelling resume.

Found this article helpful? Follow us for more!

--- Originally written by Jose J. Rosales ---

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I-601, Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility

If you are inadmissible to the United States and are seeking an immigrant visa, adjustment of status, certain nonimmigrant statuses, or certain other immigration benefits, you must file this form to seek a waiver of certain grounds of inadmissibility. Please refer to the instructions to determine whether you should use this form.

You must submit all 11 pages.

Forms and Document Downloads

Form I-601 (PDF, 600.79 KB)

Instructions for Form I-601 (PDF, 490.51 KB)

Flowchart: Filing Certain Waivers of Inadmissibility (PDF, 578.67 KB)

Form Details

04/01/24 . You can find the edition date at the bottom of the page on the form and instructions.

Dates are listed in mm/dd/yy format.

If you complete and print this form to mail it, make sure that the form edition date and page numbers are visible at the bottom of all pages and that all pages are from the same form edition. If any of the form’s pages are missing or are from a different form edition, we may reject your form.

If you need help downloading and printing forms, read our instructions . 

The filing location depends on the immigration benefit you are seeking. To view a complete list of addresses, go to our  Direct Filing Addresses  page.

You can find the filing fee for Form I-601 by visiting our Fee Schedule page.

Through Sept. 30, 2024, there is no fee to file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status , on the basis of classification as an Afghan special immigrant, or for any associated biometric services or to file an associated Form I-601.

Through Sept. 30, 2024, there is no fee to file Form I-601 individually with an approved Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative , filed with USCIS in the United States for an Afghan national (beneficiary) who has a visa immediately available.

You can pay the fee with a money order, personal check, cashier’s check or  pay by credit card or debit card using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions . If you pay by check, you must make your check payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

When you send a payment, you agree to pay for a government service. Filing fees are final and non-refundable, regardless of any action we take on your application, petition, or request, or if you withdraw your request.   If you pay by credit card or debit card, you cannot later dispute the payment. Use our Fee Calculator to help determine your fee.

If you are submitting multiple forms, pay each filing fee separately. We are transitioning to electronically processing immigration benefit requests, which requires us to use multiple systems to process your package. We may reject your entire package if you submit a single, combined payment for multiple forms.

Please do not submit this checklist with your Form I-601. The checklist is an optional tool to use as you prepare your form, but does not replace statutory, regulatory, and form instruction requirements. We recommend that you review these requirements before completing and submitting your forms.  Do not send original documents unless specifically requested in the form instructions or applicable regulations.

If you submit any documents (copies or original documents, if requested) in a foreign language, you must include a full English translation along with a certification from the translator verifying that the translation is complete and accurate, and that they are competent to translate from the foreign language into English.

Did you provide the following?

  • Evidence that establishes why you may qualify for a waiver of inadmissibility, which depends on the ground(s) of inadmissibility that apply to you and should include evidence to show why we should grant you a waiver of inadmissibility as a matter of discretion. 
  • If applying for a waiver that requires you to a showing of extreme hardship to a spouse, parent, son, or daughter of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, you must submit evidence establishing the family relationship and evidence that shows the denial of admission would result in extreme hardship to your qualifying relative.
  • If you are a VAWA self-petitioner seeking a waiver for immigration fraud or misrepresentation, you may show how the denial of admission would result in extreme hardship to your qualifying relatives or yourself. 
  • Evidence to support a waiver for inadmissibility due to a communicable disease of public health significance (if applicable).
  • Evidence to support your request for a vaccination exemption (if applicable).
  • Evidence to support a waiver of inadmissibility due to physical or mental disorder and associated harmful behavior (if applicable).
  • Evidence to support a waiver of criminal grounds of inadmissibility found in INA section 212(a)(2) (if applicable)
  • Evidence to support waiver for immigration fraud or misrepresentation (if applicable).
  • Evidence to support a waiver for inadmissibility because of your membership in a totalitarian party (if applicable).
  • Evidence to support a waiver for inadmissibility due to alien smuggling (if applicable).
  • Evidence to support a waiver of inadmissibility due to being the subject of a civil penalty under INA section 212(a)(6)(F) (if applicable).
  • Evidence to support a waiver of the 3-or 10-year unlawful presence bar under INA section 212(a)(9)(B)(v) (if applicable).
  • If you are a TPS applicant, evidence that a waiver is warranted. 
  • Evidence that you warrant a waiver of inadmissibility based on factors that would be considered if you were seeking consent to reapply if you are seeking adjustment of status under NACARA section 202 or HRIFA section 902, and inadmissible under INA section 212(a)(9)(A) or (C). 
  • Evidence that shows connection between the battery or extreme cruelty that is the basis for the VAWA claim and the self-petitioner’s removal, departure from the United States, reentry or re-entries into the United States, or attempted reentry into the United States if you are an approved VAWA self-petitioner or child of an approved VAWA self-petitioner and inadmissible under INA section 212(a)(9)(C)(i).   
  • Evidence to support waiver if you are an applicant for adjustment of status as a Special Immigrant Juvenile (if applicable).

Filing Tips for Form I-601, Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility

Complete  all sections  of the form. We will reject the form if these fields are missing:

  • Family Name
  • Mailing Address
  • Date of Birth

Filing Tips:  Review our  Tips for Filing Forms by Mail  page for information on how to ensure we will accept your form.

Don’t forget to sign your form.  We will reject any unsigned form.

E-Notification:  If you want to receive an e-mail and/or text message that we have accepted your form at a USCIS lockbox, complete  Form G-1145, E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance  and clip it to the first page of your form. 

Fee Waiver:  We will accept a fee waiver request from:

  • A VAWA self-petitioner;
  • An applicant for a T visa;
  • A battered spouse or child of a lawful permanent resident or U.S. citizen;
  • An applicant for Temporary Protected Status;
  • A Special Immigrant Juvenile; or
  • Any other noncitizen for whom  a determination of their likelihood of becoming a public charge under section 212(a)(4) is not required at the time of their application for admission or adjustment of status.

Please see our Fee Waiver page for more information.

  • Centralized Filing and Adjudication for Form I-601, Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility
  • Direct Filing Addresses for Form I-601, Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility

IMAGES

  1. Official Job Application Letter

    sample of an official job application letter

  2. 49 Best Letter Of Application Samples (+"How to Write" Guide) ᐅ

    sample of an official job application letter

  3. How to Write a Job Application Letter? (30 Best Examples)

    sample of an official job application letter

  4. Official Job Application Letter

    sample of an official job application letter

  5. Job Application Letter Examples

    sample of an official job application letter

  6. How to Write a Job Application Letter? (30 Best Examples)

    sample of an official job application letter

VIDEO

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  5. JOB APPLICATION LETTER SAMPLE ENGLISH TEACHERl

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COMMENTS

  1. Official Job Application Letter

    Sample Job Application Letter with Format (for fresh-graduate applicants) July 4, 2018 (date to be listed should be when the application letter will be submitted) (standard format - phone number, home address, email address of applicant) (standard format - name of HR manager or other company officer, name of company, company address ...

  2. How To Write an Application Letter (With Template and Example)

    Follow these steps to compose a compelling application letter: 1. Research the company and job opening. Thoroughly research the company you're applying to and the specifications of the open position. The more you know about the job, the better you can customize your application letter. Look for details like:

  3. How to Write A Letter of Application For A Job + Examples

    For example: Application for [Job Title] Position - [Your Full Name]. Start with a professional salutation. If you have the recipient's name, use it (e.g., "Dear Mr. Smith") or "Dear Hiring Manager" if the name is unknown. Begin the application letter's content with a brief introduction expressing your interest in the position.

  4. How to Write a Letter of Application (Example & Tips)

    No hard numbers. "I worked in a team and provided customer service to elderly residents". 5. Choose engaging words for your application letter. Your letter of application's length should be 250 to 400 words or 3 to 4 paragraphs — long enough to get your point across but short enough that the reader won't lose interest.

  5. How to Write a Job-Winning Application Letter (Samples)

    2. Make sure the language you use is easy to read. You might be a literary wizard, but those long words won't impress the hiring manager if they make your letter difficult to read. 3. Use positive language. Positivity is the way forward when it comes to selling your skills to a potential employer.

  6. Letter of Application: Job Example, Format & How-To Guide

    Format of an Application Letter. Create enough spacing: 1-1.15 between lines, 1-inch margins, double space between paragraphs. Choose the font: Garamond, Helvetica, or Arial in 11-12 points in a font size. Align the content to the left. Pick the file format: PDF, unless the recruiter requested a Word file specifically.

  7. How to Write a Job Application Letter (With Examples)

    Tips for Writing an Effective Letter. Sample Job Application Letter. Sending an Email Application. Review More Letter Examples. Photo: Dan Dalton / Getty Images. Melissa Ling / The Balance. A job application letter is sent or uploaded with a resume when applying for jobs.

  8. How to Write an Application Letter—Examples & Guide

    Letters of application are essential in the job market, so don't risk losing to other candidates just because you didn't write one. 2. Address Your Letter of Application Properly. Addressing an application letter is simple. Firstly, include your contact information in the header of the application letter : Full name.

  9. Writing a Winning Job Application Letter: Tips and Examples

    A job application letter, also known as a cover letter, is a formal letter that accompanies your resume and introduces you to a potential employer. The purpose of a job application letter is to highlight your qualifications, experience, and skills that make you the perfect candidate for the job. It also helps employers understand your personality, work ethic, and how you plan to contribute to ...

  10. Job Application Letter: Examples, What to Include & Writing Tips

    It means that you need to provide the following information: Your personal info (name, email, phone number/LinkedIn) Date written. The recipient's info (name, job title, email, company address) Example of an application letter header: Kaylee Tran. 9215 Fremontia Ave, Fontana, CA 92335.

  11. Application Letter Templates for Your Career

    Internship application. Dear [Hiring manager name], This letter is in reference to the [name of internship] opportunity at [company name], where I hope to start my career in [industry]. I'm interested in pursuing [career path] because [reasons for applying] and feel that I could contribute [list of skills] to your company during my internship.

  12. How to Write an Effective Application Letter [with Example & Tips]

    A Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Perfect Application Letter. Let's learn how to write an application letter for a job with a step-by-step guide that'll show you how to craft every part of it. #1. Research the Company. Researching the company is the first step before you even start writing your application letter.

  13. 49 Best Letter Of Application Samples (+"How to Write" Guide)

    Provide a brief summary of your strengths, experience, and qualifications. The second paragraph of your letter should provide a summarized description of your experiences and abilities to demonstrate why you're the perfect choice for the job. Highlight the most significant parts of your professional career.

  14. Sample Cover Letter for a Job Application

    Sample Cover Letter for a Job Application. By. Alison Doyle. Updated on April 9, 2024. In This Article. View All. Photo: Alex Dos Diaz / The Balance. Review a sample job application letter, and get tips for writing a strong cover letter that will get your application noticed.

  15. How to write an application letter (with example)

    At the top-left of the page, begin with your contact information, including your name, location, phone number and email address. Include the date on the line below. Next, address the letter to the hiring manager or the appropriate recipient, using a formal greeting such as Dear [Hiring Manager's Name].

  16. How To Write A Job Application Letter (With Examples)

    An application letter sent through email requires a subject line that details your purpose for writing— consider " [job title], [your name].". The placement of your contact information is also different depending on the medium. In a hard copy, this goes at the top of your letter, as a header.

  17. Job Application Letter

    The name of the person to whom the job application letter is for and his or her connection to the company. The business name and other information of the company where you are applying. A salutation. An introduction that you can wrap up in the first paragraph of your job application letter, which includes; Your name.

  18. Job Application Letter Examples for 9 Jobs and Formats

    2. Date: Write the date you're writing the letter underneath your header (right-aligned) — for example, '14 October 2021' or '14/10/2021'. 3. Employer's name and contact details: If you know the employer's name, state it in this section, including the company's name and address.

  19. How to Write a Letter of Application for a Job

    1. Explain what drew you to the job. Your letter of application should capture the interest of a potential employer, so be engaging. Open with a strong, declarative statement about your excitement for the position or interest in the company. Briefly highlight traits that make you a star candidate to pique their interest.

  20. Job Application Letter Format

    Introduce yourself and highlight your skills and qualifications. State strongly why you would be right for the job. Use a polite tone throughout your letter. Stay genuine and professional. End the letter on a positive note. Proofread the letter before you send it to the concerned hiring manager/employer. Q2.

  21. Sample Cover Letter for Job Application Word (Free Download)

    A well-written cover letter introduces you to potential employers, providing a glimpse into your personality, skills, and qualifications. This template helps you do that and more. Download it now! File format: Word (Microsoft) File size: 79 KB. Ready-to-use: fast, easy, and free. Download: cover letter in Word.

  22. How to Write a Job Application Letter? (30 Best Examples)

    If you are unsure of the person's gender, you can address the person's official position. For example, "Dear Manager." ... Sample Letters. Below are two job application letter examples that will guide you when you write your own: Sample 1. Lois Mende 134 Jenney Street, New Orleans 129 009-8762

  23. How to Write a Job Application Email (Examples & Templates)

    1. Entry-level job application example. You're at the starting line of your professional journey, but that doesn't mean you don't have value as an applicant. Your motivation and educational experience can still be enough to show employers you're a good candidate. This sample letter can help you express your enthusiasm for the role you ...

  24. 300+ Free Cover Letters Examples by Job [Full Guides]

    300+ Best Cover Letter Examples 2024 Free job-winning Cover Letter Samples + Expert Guides Write Professional Cover Letters in only 5 Minutes! ... If that cover letter from your last application needs a bit of upkeep, our cover letter guides for the trades are just the thing to help you add a bit of TLC. If you find yourself at a loss for words ...

  25. Cover Letter Templates and Examples for 2024

    4 tips for customizing a cover letter template. Customizing a sample cover letter or template is critical. You'll want to tailor the following based on your experience and the job you're applying to: Your language and tone; The accomplishments and abilities you spotlight; Specific industry terms

  26. Best Cover Letter Templates for 2024 (+ Free)

    For job offers that don't request a cover letter, and when you don't have time to write one, you can write a short cover letter directly in your email's body.Before choosing that option, we'd like to point out that our online cover letter application can generate a cover letter template with pre-written content for you, making the process ...

  27. USAJOBS Help Center

    Cancel an application; View job applications; Resume. Create a resume; Build a resume; Edit a resume; Upload a resume; Make a resume searchable; Print a resume; Documents. ... As the federal government's official employment site, USAJOBS has attracted over 16 million job seekers to create accounts to date. Learn about USAJOBS.

  28. What to Write in an Email When Sending a Resume [+ Examples & Tips]

    A job application letter explains why you're applying for this position and what makes you qualified. An application letter closely resembles the function of a cover letter. It demonstrates your relevant qualifications for the position and convinces the employer to call you for an interview.

  29. How To Write a Team Leader Cover Letter (With Examples)

    Team leader cover letter sample To help you learn about cover letter structuring, here is a sample cover letter for a team leader: Marcus Ong Beng Chin Singapore (65) 9555 5555 [email protected] 4 March 2024 Mr. Robert Chan Wavewood Company Dear Mr Chan, I'm thrilled at the prospect of joining your company as a team leader. With over 10 years of experience in guiding teams and leading by ...

  30. Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility

    You can find the filing fee for Form I-601 by visiting our Fee Schedule page.. Through Sept. 30, 2024, there is no fee to file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, on the basis of classification as an Afghan special immigrant, or for any associated biometric services or to file an associated Form I-601.. Through Sept. 30, 2024, there is no fee to file Form ...