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Writing a job application letter
1. How to Write a Job
Application Letter
Presented by Imam Fauzi
2. Do you need to write a letter to apply for a job? Not sure what to include or how
to format your letter? What does an employer expect to read in the letters they
receive from applicants? Here's all the information you need to write a job
application letter that will help you secure a job interview.
3. What is a Job Application Letter?
A job application letter, also known as a cover letter, should be sent or uploaded
with your resume when applying for jobs.
While your resume offers a history of your work experience and an outline of
your skills and accomplishments, the job application letter you send to an
employer explains why you are qualified for the position and should be selected
for an interview.
4. Writing Guidelines for Job Application
Letters
Writing a job application letter is very different from a quick email to a friend or a
thank you note to a relative. Hiring managers and potential interviewers have certain
expectations when it comes to the letter's presentation and appearance, from length
(no more than a page) to font size and style to letter spacing:
Length: A letter of application should be no more than one page long.
Format and Page Margins: A letter of application should be single-spaced with a space
between each paragraph. Use about 1" margins and align your text to the left, which
is the standard alignment for most documents.
Font: Use a traditional font such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri. The font size
should be between 10 and 12 points.
5. What to Include in Each Section of the
Letter
There are also set rules for the sections included in the letter, from salutation to
sign-off, and how the letter is organized. Here's a quick lowdown on the main
sections included in a job application letter:
Heading: A letter of application should begin with both you and the employer's
contact information (name, address, phone number, email) followed by the date.
Salutation: This is your polite greeting. The most common salutation is "Dear
Mr./Ms." followed by the person's last name.
6. Body of the letter: Think of this section as being three distinct parts.
In the first paragraph, you'll want to mention the job you are applying for and
where you saw the job listing.
The next paragraph(s) are the most important part of your letter. Remember how
you gathered all that information about what employers were seeking, and how you
could meet their needs? This is where you'll share those relevant details on your
experience and accomplishments.
The third and last part of the body of the letter will be your thank you to the
employer; you can also offer follow-up information.
Complimentary Close: Sign off your email with a polite close, such as "Best" or
"Sincerely," followed by your name.
7. Signature: End with your signature, handwritten, followed by your typed name. If
this is an email, simply include your typed name, followed by your contact
information.
8. Dear Sir/Madam,
In [name source here] I read about the vacancy for the position [name of position] at [name of company]. Are you
still searching for someone to fill this post? Then I think I could be the person you are looking for.
My name is [name], I am [age] years old and live in [place]. Since completing my study in [name of study] and
obtaining my degree, I have been preparing to enter the employment market. The position you are advertising
caught my eye. This job would be a perfect opportunity for me to gain new experience and at the same time prove
my worth.
I would describe myself as having a strong work ethic, as assertive and creative and in possession of a large
vocabulary and good language skills. I enjoy working independently but also work well together with others. In
addition I am highly proficient in Dutch and English, in speech and in writing. I approach most wide-ranging work
assignments with a willing mindset, a healthy dose of creativity and an academic outlook.
This position appeals to me in particular because I enjoy [list various personal motives]. What’s more the work is
similar to some of my previous work experience, [name previous work experience]. The independent character of
the work also appeals to me: I prefer working flexibly and would be happy to discuss various options.
If you think I could be of value for [name company], I would naturally be very happy to further elaborate on this
letter and the enclosed curriculum vitae in a personal interview.
I look forward to your reply.
Best regards,
[first and last name]