Applications letter part 2

 

Definition Of Applications Letter

An application letter is a formally written one-page letter that accompanies a resume and other requested documentation in application for a job or academic program. Application letters are often synonymous with cover letters, and in addition to describing what materials are included in the application, an application letter should also take time to highlight the qualifications that prepare the writer for acceptance into the job or academic program.

Application letters typically begin with an introductory paragraph that states the position being applied to, reveals how the minimum qualifications for the position are met and asks the reader to continue reading to learn more about the applicant's qualifications.

Paragraphs that follow the introduction paragraph typically highlight the top reasons the applicant should be considered. For experienced applicants, these paragraphs typically highlight work experience and workplace projects of significance. For less experienced applicants and new graduates, these paragraphs might highlight academic experience, such as classes taken that would be useful in this position or any particular academic projects or honors received.

An application letter should also include a concluding paragraph that express appreciation to the receiver for taking the time to consider the application. The final sentence should convey that the applicant looks toward the future by asking for a formal interview in-person, online or by phone.

Part Of Applications Letter

Information about you :

Begin your cover letter with your contact information. It should be in block style, on the left margin of your paper, towards the top.

• Name
• Current home address
• Telephone number

Date :

Include a date as you would do with any business letter.

Contact Person's Name, Title, Employer, and Address :

Including a specific name can get your letter and resume to the hiring manager more quickly and can be an effective personal touch. If you are applying for an advertised position that does not give a name to contact, call the company and ask for the department manager's name.

Salutation :

Choose the appropriate way to address the contact person.
For example:

• Dear Mr. Johns (if a man's name is the contact)
• Dear Ms. Smith (if a woman's name is the contact)
• Dear Prospective Employer (if there is no contact name) 

Opening Paragraph :

In the opening paragraph tell how you learned about the position. You may, for example, know of a job through:

• a classified advertisement
• an unsolicited mailing
• the Internet
• personal referrals

Middle Paragraph :

This paragraph gives a summary of your background and critical skills (hard skills) that make you qualified for the position.

Second Middle Paragraph :

This paragraph can be used to demonstrate your persuasive skills (soft skills).

Contact Information and Closing :

At the end of the letter talk about your availability for the job, where you can be contacted, and when you are going to contact the hiring person for an appointment to discuss your application. If you have no contact name you may simply want to indicate your anticipation for a response in this part of the letter. Thank the person to whom you are writing for his/her time and consideration of your application.

 Exercise :