How to write an application letter
1. Review information about the company and position
It’s best to write a new application letter for each position you’re applying for so you can include pertinent details and show your interest in the particular open role. Spend some time reviewing the company information, which you can likely find on the website, as well as the position listing. Compare your qualifications and experience with the list of skills in that posting. You may also want to think about specific experiences that have prepared you for the role, such as leading a team or managing a major event.
2. Open the letter by describing your interest
In the first paragraph of your letter, mention the job title for which you’re applying and where you saw the position posting. Include your specific interest in the role and company so the reader knows this is not a generic application letter. Briefly state the main experience or qualification you have that makes you a good fit. This is the section that will draw in the hiring manager as the reader of your application letter, so it is important to appeal to that person quickly and succinctly.
Example: “I saw the posting for the marketing intern role on my university’s online job board, and I am very interested. I’m drawn to your company’s mission of innovation and putting the customer first. I am in my final year of earning my bachelor’s degree in marketing with a minor in communications, so I feel my educational experience has prepared me to work in a fast-paced marketing department like the one within your organization.”
Related: How to Write a Quick and Effective “About Me”
3. Outline your experience and qualifications
The next few paragraphs of your letter should highlight your experience, qualifications and skills, positioned in a way that aligns with the company’s goals and mission. For example, if you are applying for a job with a nonprofit organization that provides educational opportunities to underserved community members, you could talk about your experience with nonprofit organizations or educational offerings. Since a job application letter should stand on its own without a resume, it’s helpful to include details about your experience that relate to the position to which you’re applying.
4. Include aspects of your personality
As you’re writing your job application letter, consider how you can incorporate aspects of your personality while remaining professional. A friendly and engaging letter is likely to appeal to the reader, especially when they can get an idea of how well you might fit with the team.
For example, in the situation mentioned above, explain in your letter you are good at connecting with children or how you value community spirit.
5. Express appreciation
Before you sign off on your letter, express your appreciation to the hiring manager for reviewing your letter and considering you for the position. The hiring manager is taking time out of their day to read what you have written, so expressing your gratitude for that time spent is a polite and professional way to close the document.
Example: “I appreciate the time you have taken to review my application letter. Since you likely received a number of applications and letters for this open position, I am extremely grateful for the time you have spent reading about me and what would make me a good fit for this role.”
6. Close the letter
Many people use “Sincerely” or “Best” to close the letter, although any professional sign-off is fine to include. The final line of the letter should be your full name. If you submit a hard copy of the letter, include your signature above your typed name. When submitting an application letter via email, you should include your contact information beneath your name, rather than including it in the header.
