An application letter is aimed at showing what you can do for or offer to a company (employee) so that they will grant you an interview. Like a resume, an application letter is the
sample of your work, in which not only does it demonstrate your skills but also it displays your personality. Therefore, an application letter should be clear, fair, neat, and well-written.
There are two types of application letters, namely UNSOLICITED and SOLICITED. An unsolicited letter is sent to a company for which you would like to work even though there is no openings. Some of the advantages of sending this letter are 1) there will be little competition, and 2) you can send as many letters as you want to different companies. The solicited letter is sent in response to help-wanted ads. As the consequence, it should refer to the position wanted in the ads, and there would be extremely high competition among the applicants.
Your application letter should look better than your resume, in which you have an opportunity to interpret and expand what has been presented in your resume. It should also state explicitly that your background experiences relate closely to the job.
Points to consider:
1. Start by attracting attention: you must say specifically the position; where you heard it from; and why you're interested in that position.
2. Continue by describing your qualifications: highlight your strengths and achievements and say why you think that they suit you for the job. Provide details in your explanation, or you may refer back to your resume.
3. Assure the employer that you are the person for the job: make sure that you're not exaggerating or lying. You should show that you're unique in an honest fashion supported by your referees.
4. Conclude by requesting an interview: without being pushy and impolite, urge the employer to an action by making them easy to contact you.
Note: if you want to include the expected salary, it is advisable to simply say that it is negotiable (say it in the interview).
An example of an application letter:
(Your address)
(Date)
(Addressee)
(Address)
Dear Ms/Mr ... (It is better to mention the last name) if not, you can use Sir or Madam
This month I completed a two-year course of study in Travel and Tourism at National Tourism Institute, and my placement counselor Mr. ..... suggested I apply to you for a position as assistant travel agent.
As you will see from my enclosed resume, I have taken courses in nearly every aspect of the travel industry. I have participated in workshops simulating computer operations, and I have had intensive practice in ticketing and reservations.
My work experience, moreover, has helped me develop an ability to deal with the public, a valuable asset for a travel agency. Not only as a sales assistant, but also as a stock clerk, I have learned to be customer oriented; I have found that courtesy and a smile keep business flowing smoothly.
I would like very much, Mr/Ms..... to put my skill to work for your agency. I am available for an interview Monday to Friday during business hours. You can reach me at 000-555-35467.
Yours truly,
(your name)
(Adopted from McGraw Hill,
How to write Business Letters.)
TASK 1: Write an application letter to be posted on Wednesday, 7 April 2010.
