Application Letter

Definition

A letter of application, also known as a cover letter, is a document sent with your resume to provide additional information on your skills and experience. A letter of application typically provides detailed information on why are you are qualified for the job you are applying for. Effective application letters explain the reasons for your interest in the specific organization and identify your most relevant skills or experiences. Your application letter should let the employer know what position you are applying for, why the employer should select you for an interview, and how you will follow-up.

When writing an application letter you should include:

1. First Paragraph: Why you are writing - mention the job you are applying for and where you found the listing.

2. Middle Paragraph(s): What you have to offer the employer - mention why your skills and experience are a good fit for the job.

3. Last Paragraph: Say thank you to the hiring manager for considering you and note how you will follow up.

Purpose

The purpose of a job application or resume letter is to improve your chances of being called for an interview, by

convincing the reader that you would be the best person for the job. If your letter is poorly written, the reader will not likely

take the time to look at your resume. So, your job application letter is a crucial chance at making a good first impression. 

Format

Detailed format for making an Application Letter

• Headings

        In the heading section, you can write detailed information about your identity (like the name, the full address includes city, province and zip code, telephone number and email. Then write the date of the letter on the next line). Don't forget to write down the recruiter's name, position and full address of the recruiter.

• Subject

When applying for a job online, you must write in the subject line that says the job you are applying for along with your name. By writing your name on the subject, the recruiter will be clearer about your name and what position you will take.

• Greetings

Begin writing the application letter with a greeting or greeting. For example Dr/Mr/Mrs. But if you don't know the name of the recruiter, then you can write Deaing hiring manager.

• Body of Letters

1. First paragraph, can explain why you made the letter. State the job you are applying for and where you found the job vacancy.
2. Second paragraph, should contain what you have to offer the recruiter including your skills and work experience. State why you are the strongest candidate for the job.
3. Third paragraph, your knowledge of the company. Show that you did your research and know something about the business and how you can contribute to its mission.
4. Fourth paragraf, your closing, Summarize what you would bring to the position and suggest next steps by requesting a meeting or suggesting a call.

• Closing

        Make sure to offer thanks for their time and consideration, and choose a professional closing salutation such as, "Sincerely", "Best Regards", "Yours truly". Avoid overly familiar phrases like, "Yours", "Take Care".

• Signatures

        Signature on the application letter in polite language such as regards or sincerely. Type your name after salutation, leaving a space for your handwritten signature. If sending via e-mail, type your full name and contact information after your salutation.

Expressions/Sentences

• Add contact details, date, salutation, and letter's purpose

    Format your expression of interest like a standard business letter, with the following details aligned to the left, taking a new line for the details in every bullet point:

• Your name

• Your job title, if applicable

• Your phone number

• Your email address

• Your street address

• Your city, state/territory and postcode

• The date written in full

• Recipient's name, if known

• Recipient's company

• Recipient's street address

• Recipient's city, state/territory and postcode

• Salutation

• Introduce yourself

        Your first paragraph can tell the employer who you are and why you are writing to them. Discuss why you'd like an opportunity with the company, making specific references to the elements of the business you like, such as its products and values. If you're interested in a particular department or job title, note this in your introduction.

• Describe your background

Your second paragraph can show the employer the value you'd bring to their organization. Note your relevant skills and some of your key accomplishments. Mention your qualifications and work history without going into great detail, as the employer can learn more by reading your resume.

• Write a positive conclusion

Conclude your expression of interest by thanking the employer for reading your letter. Note that you can attend an interview when it's convenient for the company. A positive conclusion can encourage the employer to keep your expression of interest until they're ready to hire new staff. Add a professional sign-off and your signature above your printed name.

How to Write an Effective Application Letter

1. Specifically state what it is that you are applying for or interested in applying for (e.g., the position, appointment, student or other visa, extension on a deadline, loan, credit card, etc.).

2. Identify the reason that you are applying. Be as specific as possible.

3. Give the reasons that you feel you merit or qualify for the position or object/thing you are applying for, if applicable (e.g., your goals, experience, qualifications or accomplishments, positive traits, and so forth).

4.Identify what you hope to accomplish by sending your letter and the action you would like the recipient to take.

5. Indicate the date by which you would like a response to your letter or by which you would like the action to be taken.

6. Refer to any other documents you have included with your letter, such as application or other forms, letters of recommendation, resume, examples of your work, etc.

7. Include a request for any information you would like to be sent, if applicable.

8. Include your contact information, such as e-mail address or phone number where you can most easily be reached and the time(s) when you available for calls, etc.

9. Close your letter by sincerely thanking the person for his/her time or for any assistance he/she can give you.

Sample

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• Semi - indented

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Job Advertisement

Writting an Application Letter

Petrus Sekewael

February 15, 2023

Mr. Theo

HRD Angkasa Gagah  Perkasa

Dear, Mr. Theo

I would like to apply for the job of ‘Civil Inspector’ that I saw from the company's web. My relevant experienced in a similar position really matches with the qualification you need.

I am 28 years old and graduated from University of Indonesia majoring in Civil Engineering. My working experiences are Project Manager at PT. Putra Wijayakusuma Sakti for three years. I am confident that I will perform a job which will meet your standard.

I attached my CV for further information,  I would be grateful if you could give me an opportunity for an interview at any time available. 

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best Regards,

Petrus Sekewael

CV