How to Prepare a Job Application Letter
- 1). Know the name of the person recruiting or interviewing you. Do not write a generic "Dear Sir/Madam" in your salutation. Research the name and title of the recruiter who is handling your application. Addressing your letter to the appropriate person conveys professionalism and impresses employers.
- 2). Use proper format in your job application letter. Write the name and address of the organization to which you are applying on the top left of the page. Use formal fonts, such as Times New Roman at 11 or 12-point size. Limit your letter to one page.
- 3). State the purpose of your letter in the first paragraph. Introduce yourself and refer to the job opening for which you are applying. Indicate why you want to work for the company. Mention how you found out about the job opening. If you got the information from someone the hiring manager knows or from a classified ad, make sure you mention it.
- 4). Explain why you are the best person for the job. In the succeeding paragraphs, highlight your accomplishments, skills and experience. Show your knowledge about the company and explain how your skills are a good match to the organization. Use action verbs to describe your accomplishments.
- 5). Discuss follow-up plans in your last paragraph. End your letter by saying that you would like to further discuss your qualifications in an interview. Give them details of how they can contact you for more information and indicate that you will follow up with a phone call. Don't forget to thank the person for his time.
- 6). Proofread your letter before sending it out. If possible, ask someone you trust to proofread it as well, preferably someone with writing skills.
- 7). Print it out on a quality printer. Be sure your printer's ink is not fading. Use the same printer and paper for your letter and resume. Do not use colored paper or graphics.
- 8). Address the envelope professionally. Type the name and address of the recipient on the center of a legal-size envelope, then type your name and address on the top left corner of the envelope. Do not use funky fonts when addressing the envelope. Instead, use the font identical to the one you used on your cover letter.