Specific Points about the Application Letter

Date: 2015-10-07; view: 446.

Employers say they want to hire people who can communicate clearly, handle personal interactions, and analyse complex situations. Use your application package to demonstrate these qualities.

KEEP THE READER'S INTERESTS IN MIND.Your message is ‘you need me', not just ‘I want a job'. Know enough about the organization or company to recognize what readers will be looking for. Then the focus of your documents will be where you fit and what you can contribute. This principle will also determine your choice of emphasis and even your wording (not ‘I have had four years experience' but ‘My experience will help me do X').

BALANCE FACTS AND CLAIMS. Your documents will be boring and meaningless if they're just bare lists of facts. They will be empty and unbelievable if they are just grand claims about yourself. Use each of the two or three paragraphs in the body of your letter to make a few key statements (‘I enjoy selling aggressively'.). Back up each one with some examples (e.g. ‘achieved highest sales figure of 10 employees for first quarter of 1999'). Mention that the resume gives further specifications and make sure that it does.

WRITE CONCISELY.There's no space available for word-spinning.

1. Write a letter for each application, tailored for the specific situation. Even if the ad calls only for a resume, send a letter anyway. The letter makes a first impression, and it can direct the reader to notice key points of the resume.

2. Use standard letter format, with internal addresses (spell names correctly!) and salutations. Use specific names wherever possible (call the company or check its website).

3. Most application letters for entry-level jobs are one page in length - a substantial page rather than a skimpy one.

4. Start strong and clear. For an advertised position, name the job and say where you saw the ad. For a speculative letter, name a specific function you can offer and relate it to something you know about the organization.

5. Use paragraph structure to lead your reader from one point to another. Refer to specific information in terms of examples for the points you're making, and mention that your resume gives further evidence.

6. Say when you'd be available for an interview and how you can best be contacted. Finish politely.