How to Write a Cover Letter in 2024 + Examples

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After weeks of heavy job search, you’re almost there!

You’ve perfected your resume. 

You’ve short-listed the coolest jobs you want to apply for.

You’ve even had a friend train you for every single interview question out there.

But then, before you can send your application and call it a day, you remember that the job ad requires a cover letter.

Now you’re stuck wondering how to write a cover letter ...

Don’t panic! We’ve got you covered. Writing a cover letter is a lot simpler than you might think. 

In this guide, we’re going to teach you how to write a cover letter that gets you the job you deserve.

  • What’s a cover letter & why it’s important for your job search
  • How to write a convincing cover letter that gets you the job (step-by-step!)
  • How to perfect your cover letter with the Novoresume free checklist
  • What excellent cover letter examples look like

New to cover letter writing? Give our resumes 101 video a watch before diving into the article!

So, let’s get started with the basics!

What is a Cover Letter? (and Why It’s Important)

A cover letter is a one-page document that you submit as part of your job application (alongside your CV or Resume). 

Its purpose is to introduce you and briefly summarize your professional background. On average, your cover letter should be from 250 to 400 words long .

A good cover letter can spark the HR manager’s interest and get them to read your resume. 

A bad cover letter, on the other hand, might mean that your application is going directly to the paper shredder. So, to make sure this doesn’t happen, it’s essential to know how to write a convincing cover letter.

How does a good cover letter look, you might ask. Well, here’s an example:

how to write cover letter

Keep in mind, though, that a cover letter is a supplement to your resume, not a replacement. Meaning, you don’t just repeat whatever is mentioned in your resume.

If you’re writing a cover letter for the first time, writing all this might seem pretty tough. After all, you’re probably not a professional writer.

The thing is, though, you don’t need to be creative, or even any good at writing. All you have to do is follow a tried-and-tested format:

  • Header - Input contact information
  • Greeting the hiring manager
  • Opening paragraph - Grab the reader’s attention with 2-3 of your top achievements
  • Second paragraph - Explain why you’re the perfect candidate for the job
  • Third paragraph - Explain why you’re a good match for the company
  • Formal closing

Or, here’s what this looks like in practice:

structure of a cover letter

How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter (And Get Hired!)

Now that we’ve got the basics out of the way, we’re going to guide you through the process of writing a cover letter step by step. 

Step #1 - Pick the Right Cover Letter Template

A good cover letter is all about leaving the right first impression.

So, what’s a better way to leave a good impression than a well-formatted, visual template?

cover letter templates

You can simply pick one of our hand-picked cover letter templates , and you’ll be all set in a jiffy!

As a bonus, our AI will even give you suggestions on how to improve your cover letter on the go.

Step #2 - Start the Cover Letter with a Header

As with a resume, it’s important to start your cover letter with a Contact Information section:

contact information on a cover letter

Here, you want to include all essential information, including:

  • Phone Number
  • Name of the hiring manager / their professional title
  • Name of the company you’re applying to

In certain cases, you might also consider adding:

  • Social Media Profiles - Any type of profile that’s relevant to your field. Social Profiles on websites like LinkedIn, GitHub (for developers), Medium (for writers), etc.
  • Personal Website - If you have a personal website that somehow adds value to your application, you can mention it. Let’s say you’re a professional writer. In that case, you’d want to link to your blog.

And here’s what you shouldn’t mention in your header:

  • Your Full Address 
  • Unprofessional Email - Make sure your email is presentable. It’s pretty hard for a hiring manager to take you seriously if your email address is “[email protected].” Whenever applying for jobs, stick to the “[first name] + [last name] @ email provider.com” format.

matching resume and cover letter

Step #3 - Greet the Hiring Manager

Once you’ve properly listed your contact information, you need to start writing the cover letter contents.

The first thing to do here is to address the cover letter to the hiring manager .

That’s right, the hiring manager! Not the overly popular “Dear Sir or Madam.” You want to show your future boss that you did your research and are really passionate about working with their team.

No one wants to hire a job seeker who just spams 20+ companies and hopes to get hired in any of them.

So, how do you find out who’s the hiring manager? There are several ways to do this. 

The simplest option is to look up the head of the relevant department on LinkedIn. Let’s say you’re applying for the position of a Communication Specialist at Novoresume. The hiring manager is probably Head of Communications or Chief Communications Office.

So, you do a quick lookup on LinkedIn:

linkedin search cco

And voila! You have your hiring manager.

Or let’s say you’re applying for the position of a server. In that case, you’d be looking for the “restaurant manager.”

If this doesn’t work, you can also check out the “Team” page on the company website; there’s a good chance you’ll at least find the right person there.

Here are several other greetings you could use:

  • Dear [Department] Hiring Manager
  • Dear Hiring Manager
  • To whom it may concern
  • Dear [Department] Team

Step #4 - Write an Attention-Grabbing Introduction

First impressions matter, especially when it comes to your job search.

Recruiters get hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of applications. Chances are, they’re not going to be reading every single cover letter end-to-end.

So, it’s essential to catch their attention from the very first paragraph .

The #1 problem we see with most cover letter opening paragraphs is that they’re usually extremely generic. Most of them look something like this..

  • Hey, my name is Jonathan and I’d like to work as a Sales Manager at XYZ Inc. I’ve worked as a sales manager at MadeUpCompany Inc. for 5+ years, so I believe that I’d be a good fit for the position.

See the issue here? This opening paragraph doesn’t say pretty much anything except the fact that you’ve worked the job before.

Do you know who else has similar work experience? All the other applicants you’re competing with.

Instead, you want to start off with 2-3 of your top achievements to really grab the reader’s attention. Preferably, the achievements should be as relevant as possible to the position.

So now, let’s make our previous example shine:

My name’s Michael and I’d like to help XYZ Inc. hit and exceed their sales goals as a Sales Manager. I’ve worked with Company X, a fin-tech company, for 3+ years. As a Sales Representative, I generated an average of $30,000+ in sales per month (beating the KPIs by around 40%). I believe that my previous industry experience, as well as excellence in sales, makes me the right candidate for the job.

See the difference between the two examples? If you were the hiring manager, which sales manager would you hire, Jonathan or Michael?

Now that we’ve covered the introduction, let’s talk about the body of your cover letter. This part is split into two paragraphs: the first is for explaining why you’re the perfect person for the job, and the latter is for proving that you’re a good fit for the company.

So, let’s get started...

Step #5 - Explain why you’re the perfect person for the job

This is where you show off your professional skills and convince the HR manager that you’re a better fit for the job than all the other applicants.

But first things first - before you even write anything, you need to learn what the most important requirements for the role are. So, open up the job ad and identify which of the responsibilities are the most critical.

For the sake of the example, let’s say you’re applying for the position of a Facebook Advertiser. You scan the job ad and see that the top requirements are:

  • Experience managing a Facebook ad budget of $10,000+ / month
  • Some skills in advertising on other platforms (Google Search + Twitter)
  • Excellent copywriting skills

Now, in this section, you need to discuss how you fulfill these requirements. So, here’s how that would look for our example:

In my previous role as a Facebook Marketing Expert at XYZ Inc. I handled customer acquisition through ads, managing a monthly Facebook ad budget of $20,000+ . As the sole digital marketer at the company, I managed the ad creation & management process end-to-end. Meaning, I created the ad copy , images, picked the targeting, ran optimization trials, and so on.

Other than Facebook advertising, I’ve also delved into other online PPC channels, including:

  • Google Search

Are you a student applying for your first internship? You probably don’t have a lot of work experience to show off in this section. Learn how to write an internship cover letter here.

Step #6 - Explain why you’re a good fit for the company

Once you’ve written the last paragraph, you might be thinking - I’m a shoo-in for the job! What else do I need to write? I’ll just wrap up the cover letter and hit that sweet SEND button.

Well, no. You’re not quite there yet.

The HR manager doesn’t only look at whether you’ll be good at the job or not. They’re looking for someone that’s also a good fit for the company culture.

After all, employees that don’t fit in are bound to quit, sooner or later. This ends up costing the company a ton of money, up to 50% of the employee’s annual salary . 

Meaning, you also need to convince the HR manager that you’re really passionate about working with them.

How do you do this? Well, as a start, you want to do some research about the company. You want to know things like:

  • What’s the company’s business model?
  • What’s the company product or service? Have you used it?
  • What’s the culture like? Will someone micro-manage your work, or will you have autonomy on how you get things done?

So, get to Googling. Chances are, you’ll find all the information you need either on the company website or somewhere around the web.

Then, you need to figure out what you like about the company and turn that into text.

Let’s say, for example, you’re passionate about their product and you like the culture of innovation / independent work in the organization.

You’d write something like:

I’ve personally used the XYZ Smartphone, and I believe that it’s the most innovative tech I’ve used in years. The features such as Made-Up-Feature #1 and Made-Up-Feature #2 were real game changers for the device. 

I really admire how Company XYZ thrives for excellence for all its product lines, creating market-leading tech. As someone that thrives in a self-driven environment, I truly believe that I and Company XYZ will be a great match.

What you don’t want to do here is be super generic for the sake of having something to write. Most job seekers tend to mess this one up. Let’s take a look at a very common example we tend to see (way too often):

I’d love to work for Company XYZ because of its culture of innovation. I believe that since I’m super creative, I’d be a good fit for the company. The company values of integrity and transparency really vibe with me.

See what’s wrong here? The example doesn’t really say anything about the company. “Culture of Innovation” is something most companies claim to have. 

The same goes for “values of integrity and transparency” - the writer just googled what the values for the organization are, and said that they like them.

Any hiring manager that reads this will see through the fluff.

So, make sure to do a lot of research and come up with good reasons why you're applying.

Step #7 - Wrap up with a call to action

Finally, it’s time to finish up your cover letter and write the conclusion.

In the final paragraph, you want to:

  • Wrap up any points you couldn't in the previous paragraphs. Do you have anything left to say? Any other information that could help the hiring manager make their decision? Mention it here.
  • Thank the hiring manager for their time. It never hurts to be courteous, as long as you don’t come off as too needy.
  • Finish the cover letter with a call to action. The very last sentence in your cover letter should be a call to action. You should ask the hiring manager to take some sort of action.

And now, let’s turn this into a practical example:

So to wrap it all up, thanks for looking into my application. I hope I can help Company X make the most out of their Facebook marketing initiatives. I'd love to further discuss how my previous success at XYZ Inc. can help you achieve your facebook marketing goals.

Step #8 - Use the right formal closing

Once you’re done with the final paragraph, all you have to do is write down a formal “goodbye” and you’re good to go.

Feel free to use one of the most popular conclusions to a cover letter:

  • Best Regards,
  • Kind Regards,

And we’re finally done! Before sending off the cover letter, make sure to proofread it with software like Grammarly, or maybe even get a friend to review it for you.

Does your cover letter heading include all essential information?

  • Professional email
  • Relevant Social Media Profiles

Do you address the right person? I.e. hiring manager in the company / your future direct supervisor

Does your introductory paragraph grab the reader's attention?

  • Did you mention 2-3 of your top achievements?
  • Did you use numbers and facts to back up your experience?

Do you successfully convey that you’re the right pro for the job?

  • Did you identify the core requirements?
  • Did you successfully convey how your experiences help you fit the requirements perfectly?

Do you convince the hiring manager that you’re passionate about the company you’re applying to?

  • Did you identify the top 3 things that you like about the company?
  • Did you avoid generic reasons for explaining your interest in the company?

Did you finalize the conclusion with a call to action?

Did you use the right formal closure for the cover letter?

5+ Cover Letter Examples

Need some inspiration? Read on to learn about some of the best cover letter examples we’ve seen (for different fields).

College Student Cover Letter Example

college or student cover letter example

Middle Management Cover Letter Example

Middle Management Cover Letter

Career Change Cover Letter Example

Career Change Cover Letter

Management Cover Letter Example

Management Cover Letter Example

Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

Want to discover more examples AND learn what makes them stand out? Check out our guide to cover letter examples .

Next Steps in Your Job Search - Creating a Killer Resume

Your cover letter is only as good as your resume. If either one is weak, your entire application is for naught. 

After all, a cover letter is just an introduction. Imagine going through all this effort to leave an amazing first impression, but flopping at the end because of a mediocre resume.

...But don’t you worry, we’ve got you covered on that end, too.

If you want to learn more about Resumes & CVs, we have a dedicated FREE guide for that. Check out our complete guide on how to make a resume , as well as how to write a CV - our experts will teach you everything you need to know in order to land your dream job.

Or, if you’re already an expert, just pick one of our resume templates and get started.

resume examples for cover letter

Key Takeaways

Now that we’ve walked you through all the steps of writing a cover letter, let’s summarize everything we’ve learned:

  • A cover letter is a 250 - 400 word document that convinces the hiring manager of your competence
  • A cover letter goes in your job application alongside your resume
  • Your introduction to the cover letter should grab the hiring manager’s attention and keep it all the way until the conclusion
  • There are 2 main topics you need to include in your cover letter: why you’re the perfect candidate for the job & why you’re passionate about working in the company you’re applying to
  • Most of the content of your cover letter should be factual , without any fluff or generalizations

At Novorésumé, we’re committed to helping you get the job you deserve, every step of the way! Follow our blog to stay up to date with the industry-leading advice. Or, check out some of our top guides…

  • How to Write a Motivational Letter
  • How to Write a Resume with No Work Experience
  • Most Common Interview Questions and Answers

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How To Write A Job Application Letter (With Examples)

  • Best Business Salutations
  • Letter of Introduction
  • Close a Business Letter
  • Job Application Letter
  • Business Letter Layout
  • To Whom It May Concern
  • Letter Of Interest
  • Letter Envelope
  • Experience Letter
  • How To Write A Letter

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.

  • Sign Up For More Advice and Jobs

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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Job Application Letter Format and Writing Tips

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Job Application Letter Format

Job application letter template, job application letter example.

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A job application letter (also known as a cover letter) is a letter you send with your resume to provide information on your skills and experience. This letter is your chance to “sell” yourself to an employer, explaining why you are an ideal candidate for a position.

When you write your job application letter, it’s essential to pay close attention to formatting . There’s a right way to format a cover letter; deviate from the standard guidelines and hiring managers may drop you from consideration.

In fact, anything that makes your job application letter appear less than professional can prevent hiring managers from taking you seriously as a candidate. Make sure your cover letter is formatted properly and is free from errors before you send. 

Tips for Writing a Job Application Letter

Do not copy your resume. A cover letter is a sales pitch. The purpose of this letter is to convince the hiring manager that you’re a strong candidate and to highlight your relevant experience and abilities. Your application letter should show how exactly your background makes you a good fit for a particular position. In contrast, your resume is a general record of your experience, education, and accomplishments.

Tailor each application letter to the job. As mentioned above, emphasize in your letter why you are an ideal candidate for the specific job. This requires that you personalize each letter to fit the company and position. Match your qualifications to the job posting by highlighting the skills, experience, and requirements listed in the description.

Be professional. Application letters have a fairly rigid format—as hiring managers read your letter, they will expect to see certain information included in set areas. You have freedom within the structure to be personable, but it is important to stick to a certain level of formality. Pay particular attention to the professionalism of your salutation . You wouldn't, for instance, want to refer to the letter's recipient by their first name unless specifically requested.

Carefully proofread. Employers are likely to overlook an application with a lot of errors. Therefore, read through your cover letter, and even consider asking a friend or career counselor to read the letter. Proofread for grammar and spelling errors. Be particularly mindful to spell the letter recipient's name correctly, as well as the company name.

Follow business letter format. Use business letter format when writing your letter. If you’re sending a typed hard-copy letter, be sure to lead with a paragraph containing your address, followed by the date, followed by the address of the recipient. If you’re sending an email, you can omit the address and date sections.  

Decide whether to send a hard copy or email. The main difference in formatting an email application letter is that you need to include a subject line that clearly lays out your purpose for writing, e.g. “Graphic Designer—Joe Smith.” And, instead of placing your contact information at the top of the letter, as you would in a hard copy, you'll include it below your signature.

Since your application letter will be accompanied by your resume, make sure the letter does not duplicate your resume exactly.

Use this formatting information as a guideline when writing your customized application letters , so you know what information goes where.  

Contact Information Name Address City, State Zip Code Phone Number Email Address

Employer Contact Information (if you have it) Name Title Company Address City, State Zip Code

Salutation Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name, (leave out if you don't have a contact)

Body of Application Letter The body of your application letter lets the employer know what position you are applying for, why the employer should select you for an interview, and how you will follow up. See below for a paragraph-by-paragraph breakdown of the body of the letter.

First Paragraph The  first paragraph  of your letter should include information on why you are writing. Mention the job you are applying for and where you found the job listing. Include the name of a mutual contact, if you have one. You might conclude by briefly and concisely saying why you think you are an ideal candidate for the job.

Middle Paragraph(s) The next section of your application letter should describe what you have to offer the employer.

It can be a single paragraph, or you can break it up into a couple of paragraphs. If the section gets lengthy, you may use bullet points to break up the text. Remember, you are interpreting your resume, not repeating it.

Mention specifically how  your qualifications match the job  you are applying for. In this portion of the letter, make your case for your candidacy.

It can be helpful to spend some time researching the company —this knowledge and insight helps you make an informed and persuasive argument for your candidacy.

Use specific examples whenever possible. For example, if you say that you have lots of experience working successfully on team projects, provide an example of a time you worked in a group and achieved success.

Final Paragraph Conclude your application letter by thanking the employer for considering you for the position. Include information on how you will follow up.

Complimentary Close (examples)

Signature (for a hard copy letter)

Typed Signature

Download the job application letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

Melissa Brown 11 South Street Harbor View, Maine 04005 555-555-5555 melissa.brown@email.com

July 14, 2021

Jason Rivera Human Resources Director Avery Solutions, Inc. 700 Commerce Way Harbor View, Maine 04005

Dear Mr. Rivera,

I was excited when my former colleague, Stephanie Taylor, told me that you were hiring for a Human Resources Specialist at Avery Solutions.

Stephanie has told me how important teamwork is to your group at Avery, and how much you need an HR Specialist who can fit in with the department and hit the ground running on day one. I believe that I am the ideal candidate for your team.

In my current job at Smith Group, I created and run our onboarding program, including organizing background checks and new hire orientation. I also have extensive experience in:

  • Data reporting/data entry on HRIS software
  • Recruiting and hiring processes, including creating job descriptions and postings, screening resumes, and scheduling interviews
  • Producing company events, such as the annual company-wide picnic (100+ employees from across the country)

I’d love to speak with you about my qualifications and what I can do for your team. I’ve attached my resume for your consideration. Please don’t hesitate to contact me on my cell at 555-555-5555 with questions or to arrange an interview.

Best regards,

Signature (hard copy letter)

Melissa Brown

Job Application Email Example 

Subject Line: George Woo – Editorial Assistant

Dear Ms. Cortez,

I was excited when Ada Wilson told me that you were looking for an editorial assistant with a background in rights and research and a passion for digital media. She suggested that I throw my hat in the ring, and I’d love the opportunity to tell you more about what I can offer your team.

I’ve interned for Ada’s team for the past three summers, developing extensive experience with the rights and research process. Last year, I was instrumental in securing the rights to include Sara Frey’s poems in our digital anthology – a first for an online publisher, according to Ms. Frey’s estate.

I also have:

  • Expertise with most popular content management systems, including WordPress
  • Analytics knowledge, including expert-level facility with Google Analytics
  • A strong work ethic and commitment to meeting deadlines

I hope you’ll reach out at your convenience to tell me more about your team’s goals and needs for the coming year. You can reach me on my cell at 555-123-4567 or via email at George.Woo@email.com.

How to Get Your Application Noticed

Don’t copy your resume: Your job application letter is a sales pitch. Don’t regurgitate your resume; instead, use this document to sell the hiring manager on your skills.

Tailor your application letter to the job: Match your skills and qualifications to the job description, highlighting those that make you an ideal candidate.

Be professional: Use business letter format and be sure to proofread your letter before you send.

CareerOneStop. " How Do I Write a Cover Letter ?" Accessed July 14, 2021.

CareerOneStop. " Write Effective Cover Letters ." Accessed July 14, 2021.

Purdue University. " Writing the Basic Business Letter ." Accessed July 14, 2021.

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’ts

  • 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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Published In: Letters

Writing a Job Application Letter (Samples & Examples)

Often, employers prefer that job applicants furnish them with a professionally written application letter for an open position instead of sending them their resume and cover letter. A job application letter is usually used when applying for a role when the role focuses more on their personality than all other aspects. A job application letter reflects more details about the applicant, whereas the resume focuses on their professional experiences and skills.

What is a Job Application Letter?

A job application letter is a standalone document submitted to the potential employer by the applicant expressing their interest in an open position. The application letter explains who you are, either as an individual or as a professional. The application letter should highlight your skills and achievements, helping to capture the recruiter’s attention responsible for reviewing job applications.

When properly drafted, an application letter explains to the recipient why they should book you for an interview and outlines the significant qualifications that make you the perfect candidate for the position. A professionally written job application letter can create a great first impression and help set you apart from thousands of applicants.

Difference Between a Job Application Letter and a Cover Letter

The key difference between a job application letter and a cover letter is that;

  • Cover letters only define the applicants’ professional qualifications and the reason for writing the letter, while;
  • The job application letter outlines the applicants’ skills, qualifications, strengths, and previous job experiences that are related to the position that they are applying for.

How to Write a Job Application Letter 

When drafting your job application letter, follow these steps to ensure that you include all the information about yourself and your professional experience that will help you seize the hiring managers’ attention: 

Do your research about the organization and the open positions

You must draft a new job application letter for each position you are applying for. This is important so as not to sound generic. By writing from scratch, you will also be able to include pertinent details about the position you are applying for and show your interest in that specific role. Go through the job advert and the company’s website and compare the qualifications and experience with the list of skills and qualifications listed in the job posting. You may also want to brainstorm some of your significant experiences related to the position you are applying for. 

Use a professional format

All job application letters should follow a standard format and should be professionally written. The letter should be single-spaced, have a one-inch margin, and should be left-aligned. Also, you should consider using a more professional and traditional font such as Times New Roman- font size twelve. Try to tailor your letter to fit on one page of printed paper. 

Use a formal business heading

When writing your job application letter, you should use a formal business heading. The heading of your application letter should include your name, your contact information, the date of writing, and the company’s name and address. 

Address the letter to the right recipient 

When gathering information about the company, try and find out the name of the person that you are to send the letter to. In most cases, the person you are supposed to send the letter to is usually included in the job advert, if not try and contact the company and find out their name. 

Start by describing your interest

In your first paragraph, mention the position that you are applying for and where you saw the job listing. Include your interest in the position and provide a brief description of your experiences and qualifications that make you the best candidate for the role.

Outline your skills, experiences, and qualifications

In the next few paragraphs of your job application letter, outline your skills, experiences, and qualifications poised in a way that aligns with the company’s mission and vision statements. 

Include aspects of your personality

When writing your application letter, focus on how you can incorporate aspects of your personality. An engaging letter is more likely to attract the attention of the reader, especially when they can get an idea of how you will be an asset to their team. 

Express appreciation

Before signing off on your job application letter, express your appreciation to the recipient of the letter for reviewing your application letter and considering you for the job. Remember that the hiring manager/potential employer is taking their time to go through your letter, so expressing your gratitude for the time that they spend is a polite and professional way to close your letter. 

Close the letter

Use a professional sign off to conclude your letter. Most people use “Best” or “Sincerely” to close the letter, but you can choose any other that is professional to use. 

Sending Your Job Application Letter 

Job application letter formats depending on whether one is sending it to their supervisor or the hiring manager. If you are looking to send your letter via email, your letter’s format will differ from a mailed or printed letter. When sending via email, your contact information should be at the bottom part of your letter for an email, below your full typed name.  

When you are sending your job application letter via email, it is important to consider the letter’s subject line. The subject line will, in most cases, determine whether the hiring manager opens your letter or not. Make sure to use a relevant subject line in your application, for instance; you can use something like, “Job application letter for the position of…” The best subject line is usually professional, polite, concise, and relevant. 

Free Job Application Letter Templates

Depending on how your choice of words, formatting, and length of your job application letter can either make or break you. To ensure that your job application letter has everything and is well structured, consider the following templates when writing:

Job-Application-Letter-Sample-01

Tips to Follow

When drafting your job application letter, make sure to follow these tips to ensure that you have included all the information that the hiring manager requires:

  • Emphasize your abilities and skills: your job application letter is an opportunity for you to introduce and sell yourself as the best candidate for the position that you are applying for. Include some specific situations in which you managed to properly apply your skills, experiences, and abilities to benefit the organization that you were working for. You can also include data to quantify and back up your claims
  • Keep the letter short: even though you may be tempted to include a lot of unnecessary details about yourself, it is important to be brief in your writing. If the potential employer or the hiring manager receives a letter that has several pages, they may not dedicate their time to go through it. A concise letter is more manageable and appealing to them.
  • Proofread your work: since the job application will serve as your first impression, you want to ensure that it sends a positive vibe to the recipient. Ensure that your letter is free of any grammatical errors and spelling mistakes to avoid a potentially negative first impression.
  • Close the letter with all the important details: thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration. Also, provide your contact information and mention how you will follow up.

Most companies usually receive thousands of applications for open positions every day, therefore for you to stand out, your letter should look good, and it must capture their attention from the onset. Having a well-drafted job application letter can greatly help you in getting your dream job. If your job application looks professional, then the hiring manager will be more likely to take it more seriously.

Related Documents

Job Application Letter

A job application letter is a document that a person writes to their potential employer so as to give them information about their qualifications, experience, skills and knowledge. It is also known as a cover letter and is sent along with a resume and other necessary documents to the employer.

The basic role of a job application letter is to introduce your potential to employers and highlight your suitability for the job vacancy. It is one of the first things that make an impression on you in the eyes of the employer. While hiring, recruiters try to analyze how passionate a person is about taking up that particular job, thus, being genuine and truthful is one of the essential qualities that they look for in the candidate. The applicant needs to convince the employer that they are right for the job by presenting a detailed and clear job application letter.

job application letter

Job Application Letter: Tips and Guidelines

  • A job application letter should provide information about educational qualifications, career, goals, projects and other key details in a very crisp manner.
  • A job application letter should be professional in appearance.
  • It should be addressed to a specific person and their position should be mentioned.
  • One should attract attention to their skills, experience and knowledge in the job application letter.
  • Any kind of additional documents provided along with the application letter should be addressed/mentioned clearly.
  • The willingness for an interview ahead of the application should be expressed.
  • The applicant should write in such a tone which sounds enthusiastic and positive to the employer.
  • One should avoid mentioning repeatedly the skills and experiences which are already mentioned in the resume.
  • Write persuasively and proofread before submitting.

Format for Job Application Letter

Address of the Applicant

The employer/HR,

Salutation (Respected Sir/Ma’am),

Body of the letter

Thanking you,

Yours Sincerely/Truly

(Details of the applicant)

Sample for Job Application Letter 1 – Applying as a Fresher/Graduate

  142, 12th Floor,

Vibrant Tower,

Andheri, Mumbai.

12th September 2021

The HR Manager,

ABC Technologies,

Action Tower,

Subject: Job application for the position of Software Engineer

Respected Ma’am,

I hope your day is going great. I am writing this to you regarding the software engineer position that has recently opened up in your company. I came across this position on a website and I believe that I qualify for the majority of the requirements.

I have completed my graduation in electronic communication from IIT Delhi in which I hold a CGPA of 8.65. During my graduation, I also pursued certificate courses in Java processing, front-end development and backend development.

I also recently completed a three-month internship with Sigma Technologies where I was a part of their front-end team.

I have attached my resume with this letter and I certainly believe my educational qualifications will be satisfactory as per your expectations and will meet all the requirements.

Looking forward to discussing my skill set in an interview.

Yours truly,

Sakshi Mittal

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Sample for Job Application Letter 2 – Applying for a New Job

  14, Balwant Nagar

Janpath Road,

9th January 2022

Karan Nayak

HR Manager,

Potent Solutions,

Subject: Application for vacancy of Customer Service Manager

Dear Mr Nayak,

I hope you are having a productive day. I am excited to contact you about the customer service manager vacancy posted on Potent solutions’ website. I find myself a potential candidate for the position, given my career experience, education and core skills have prepared me to thrive in this role.

In my prior experiences involving marketing and sales, I have worked successfully with my team in converting clients and making core decisions. I have strong communication skills and can readily identify and resolve customer needs.

As my resume mentions, I have 4 years of experience in sales and marketing. And though I enjoyed my job a lot, with time I have realised that my customer care skills were more effective. This interest in customer care was strong enough to lead me and pursue a career in customer services.

I would love to continue this conversation with you over an interview and I believe that I can play an essential role in providing you with quality results. Looking forward to discussing more over an interview.

Thanking You,

Yours sincerely,

Viraj Mathur

FAQs on Job Application Letter

Question 1. What is a job application letter?

Answer. A job application letter is a professional document which allows your recruiter to know about your experiences, education, skills and knowledge about a particular field. It introduces you to your potential employer and highlights your suitability for the position you are applying to.

Question 2. What is important to include in a job application letter?

Answer. At the top of the letter:

  • Mention your contact details and address
  • Address properly the company/organisation you are applying to
  • A formal greeting (using the appropriate title and name of the addresses).
  • A clear and brief subject of the letter

At the bottom of the letter:

  • An appropriate sign-off eg. Yours truly, yours faithfully etc.
  • Your name and signature

Question 3. Is a job application letter important?

Answer. Yes, a job application letter is an essential part of a written application. In many cases, an application letter is just as important as a resume. It is unlikely that your resume will be read if your application letter does not make a good first impression.

Question 4. What are the things that an applicant should avoid in their job application letter?

Answer. Following are some mentioned things that an applicant should avoid in the job application letter:

  • Job application letter should not be copied from any other resume publication sites
  • An applicant should always proofread their application letter and should not make any grammatical mistakes.
  • An applicant should put highlights on what the organisation will gain from hiring them, instead of just focusing on what the applicant will gain from the organisation.

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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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More From Forbes

How to accept a job offer via email (with tips and examples).

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A well-written job offer acceptance email makes a positive impression.

You’ve been job hunting for months, endured endless interviews and finally have a job offer. Hurray! Now, it's time to make it official. The initial offer of employment will most likely be delivered informally via phone or email. After that, ensure you receive a formal communication from the employer containing the details. If the offer aligns with your expectations, great. If not, this is the time to negotiate. Remember, you have the most significant negotiating power during that tiny window of time between being offered a position and formally agreeing to accept it. Once you’ve negotiated and feel comfortable with the terms, it’s time to finalize the agreement.

Nowadays, it's standard practice to accept a job offer via email. A well-written job offer acceptance email will help make a positive impression on your future employer by communicating gratitude , enthusiasm and professionalism. It’s also an effective way to confirm the details of your offer to avoid any future misunderstandings. How formal your email is will depend on the company culture and your relationship with the hiring team. Use your best judgment and refer to your communications with the organization thus far as a guide. Ultimately, you’ll want to be as polite and succinct as possible.

Accepting a job offer can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Typically, an employer will provide a deadline by which you’ll need to decide. Ideally, you’ll want to show the company you value their time by responding within two to three days. Let’s review a few tips and examples to guide you through writing a job offer acceptance email.

Essential Elements For A Job Offer Acceptance Email

Your job offer acceptance email should be well thought out and error-free. As you write your draft, keep these six steps in mind.

1. Begin With A Straightforward Subject Line

Chances are that the hiring team is inundated with emails daily. By writing a succinct, professional subject line, you'll ensure that your email stands out. Provide details, including your name and the job title. In general, avoid emojis, abbreviations and too much punctuation to prevent the email from looking like spam. Also, keep it short—between 30 and 50 characters in length. Keeping the subject line concise is especially important if the employer reads your email on a mobile device.

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, 2. personalize the greeting.

If you know the name of the person who extended the job offer, use their name and title. When the company culture is formal, you might want to write something like, “Dear Ms. Jones.” Otherwise, “Hello Ms. Jones” is considered a more relaxed greeting. If the culture is very casual, you might even use “Hi Kathy” as a salutation.

3. Express Gratitude

To set a positive tone, thank the employer for the opportunity. Be authentic and concise. If possible, include specific examples of elements of the job you’re looking forward to.

4. Formally Accept The Job Offer

This section should include your statement of acceptance. Mention the job title as it was specified in the offer. You might even include the company name and start date to avoid confusion.

5. State And Agree To The Terms

At this point, briefly describe the terms of employment, such as the starting salary and any other benefits you agreed to. By including specifics, you’ll ensure that there isn’t any confusion in the future. This section is also a good place to ask any additional questions you might have regarding the role.

6. Conclude And Sign

Finally, finish the email by thanking the employer again and expressing how excited you are to accept the position. Conclude with a professional email sign-off. Some examples are:

Best regards,
  • Kind regards,

Then, add your signature, including contact information such as email and phone number.

Finally, don’t forget to proofread your email. It helps to read it out loud and use a spell-checking tool like Grammarly to avoid typos and grammatical errors.

Job Offer Acceptance Email Example

Are you suffering from writer’s block? Here’s an example of an acceptance email to inspire you.

Subject line: Cory Brown – Job Offer Acceptance
Dear Mr. Smith,
I enjoyed speaking with you on the phone yesterday about the role. Thank you for your confidence in my abilities and for offering me the position. As I mentioned, I look forward to making a positive contribution to the team.
I am delighted to formally accept the offer of a Product Manager position with Company ABC. As discussed, my starting salary will be $150,000 annually, with 15 days of paid leave and health insurance benefits.
Based on our conversation, I will start work on Monday, October 5 th . Please let me know if there are any documents I should bring with me on my first day. I'm available via email, or you can contact me at 212-555-1212.
Again, thank you very much. I can’t wait to get started!

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or accepting your first job, a well-crafted job offer acceptance email sets the tone for your new position. By following these tips, you’ll be able to confirm key details, convey enthusiasm and present yourself as a consummate professional.

Create your Europass CV

The Europass CV builder makes it easy to create your CV online. You can use it to apply for a job, education or training opportunities as well as volunteering.

The best-known CV format in Europe

The Europass CV is one of the best-known CV formats in Europe. It is easy-to-use and familiar to employers and education institutions.

You will first have to create your Europass profile with information on your education, training, work experience and skills. After you complete your Europass profile, you can create as many CVs as you want with just a few clicks. Just select which information you want to include, pick your favourite design and Europass will do the rest. 

You can create, store and share CVs in 31 languages . You can download your Europass CV, store it in your Europass Library share it with employers, with  EURES  or other job boards.

How to create a good CV

Remember that your CV is your first opportunity to communicate your skills and experiences to a future employer. It is a snapshot of who you are, your skills, your educational background, work experiences and other achievements.

Present your experience clearly

Highlight examples of your skills and experiences matching the job you are applying for. Pay close attention to the details published in the vacancy notice.

Tailor your CV

Make sure you update the ‘About Me’ section to highlight why you are the best person for the job. Do not include a full detailed history. Focus on facts and main points that match the job you have in mind.

Make it readable

Make sure your CV is easy to read. Use clear and simple language.  Use strong verbs (e.g. ‘managed’, ‘developed’, ‘increased’).

Use reverse chronological order

Always list the most recent experience on the top followed by previous ones. In case of long gaps in working or learning, include an explanation.

Polish and fine-tune

Check for spelling and grammar mistakes, provide a professional e-mail address, and add a professional photograph of yourself.

Your Europass profile

Your Europass profile is the place to keep a record of all your skills, qualifications and experiences. If you keep your Europass profile up-to-date then you will always have all the information you need to create tailored CVs and job applications quickly.

Good luck with your applications!

Find support through EU services

Eures the european job mobility portal, working abroad in other eu countries, education and training in other eu countries, you may be interested to read.

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Create your Europass Cover Letter

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Managing your personal information in Europass

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COMMENTS

  1. 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:

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. How to Write an Application Letter—Examples & Guide

    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 ...

  5. 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.

  6. How to Write a Cover Letter: Guide + Examples

    Avoid addressing the recipient with "Dear Sir or Madam," which is outdated and impersonal. It's always best to address them by their title and name. For example: Good cover letter greeting examples: "Dear hiring manager,". "Dear [XYZ Company] team,". "Dear Customer Acquisition Hiring Manager,". Weak cover letter greeting examples:

  7. Cover Letter Format: Examples & Formatting Tips [2024]

    The job application letter format calls for a professional and formal greeting. Use "Dear" rather than "Hello" or "Hi" in your cover letter salutation, and address the reader by name. Do your best to find the name through the company's website, LinkedIn or by searching online.

  8. How to Write a Job-Winning Application Letter (Samples)

    2. Make sure the language you use is easy to read. You might be a , 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.

  9. How to Write a Cover Letter in 2024 + Examples

    Header - Input contact information. Greeting the hiring manager. Opening paragraph - Grab the reader's attention with 2-3 of your top achievements. Second paragraph - Explain why you're the perfect candidate for the job. Third paragraph - Explain why you're a good match for the company.

  10. How To Write A Job Application Letter (With Examples)

    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 ...

  11. How to Write a Cover Letter for a Job in 2024

    Respectfully, Kind regards, Best regards, Yours truly, Then, make two spaces below the salutation, and type your full name. For some professional (but optional) flair, sign your cover letter either with a scan of your signature or by using software like DocuSign. 8. Check your cover letter's content and formatting.

  12. 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.

  13. 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.

  14. How to Format a Cover Letter: Examples for 2024

    This is how you should format a cover letter for an internship: Put your name, field of study, and contact information at the top. Address the cover letter to the hiring manager or internship coordinator. Add the date. Use a professional greeting and the hiring manager's name.

  15. 200+ Professional Cover Letter Examples for Job Seekers

    Employer name. Company Name. Street address. City, State. Salutation. Dear [Hiring Manager's Name], Opening Paragraph (Introduction) Your cover letter opening should contain a self-introduction. Write about who you are, where your expertise lies, where you found the job posting, and why you want to apply for the job.

  16. Sample Cover Letter for a Job Application

    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.

  17. Job Application Letter Format and Writing Tips

    Don't copy your resume: Your job application letter is a sales pitch. Don't regurgitate your resume; instead, use this document to sell the hiring manager on your skills. Tailor your application letter to the job: Match your skills and qualifications to the job description, highlighting those that make you an ideal candidate.

  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 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].

  20. How to Write a Cover Letter for Job Applications: Example

    Here's how to write a cover letter for a job application: 1. Start with a Professional Cover Letter Header. Let's start with the basics: your contact information and that of the hiring manager. Cover letters follow the business letter format, which means that those details need to go in the top left corner of the page.

  21. How to Write a Job Application Email: Template & Expert Tips

    Introduce Yourself. Your email introduction should be warm, inviting, and no more than one short paragraph. State your name, the position you're applying for, and how you found the opening. "My name is [Name], and I am writing to apply for the [job title] position advertised on [where you found the advertisement].". 5.

  22. Writing a Job Application Letter (Samples & Examples)

    Use a professional format. All job application letters should follow a standard format and should be professionally written. The letter should be single-spaced, have a one-inch margin, and should be left-aligned. Also, you should consider using a more professional and traditional font such as Times New Roman- font size twelve. Try to tailor ...

  23. How to Write an Job Application Letter

    The willingness for an interview ahead of the application should be expressed. The applicant should write in such a tone which sounds enthusiastic and positive to the employer. One should avoid mentioning repeatedly the skills and experiences which are already mentioned in the resume. Write persuasively and proofread before submitting.

  24. 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.

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    If you know the name of the person who extended the job offer, use their name and title. When the company culture is formal, you might want to write something like, "Dear Ms. Jones ...

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  27. Create your Europass CV

    The best-known CV format in Europe. The Europass CV is one of the best-known CV formats in Europe. It is easy-to-use and familiar to employers and education institutions. You will first have to create your Europass profile with information on your education, training, work experience and skills. After you complete your Europass profile, you can create as many CVs as you want with just a few ...