As a rule, every candidate holds their breath when sending out the application letter to get their dream job. It is a nerve-wracking process that makes your hands tremble.
Will you get the job? Will they at least call you for an interview? Writing an unforgettable application letter undoubtedly increases the probability of success.
No one says that it’s easy to write an application letter. However, you can get solid support from experienced writers just like many students do while turning to a college application essay writing service. Hire someone who has written hundreds of such letters and knows what to do to attract the attention of the most demanding hiring manager.
It is also possible to cope with this challenging task on your own. You just need to learn some crucial tips on writing a memorable application letter. Here they are.
How to Write an Application Letter
Research the Company
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is writing a vague letter that does not show a hiring manager that you are interested in joining this particular company.
Start by thoroughly researching the company you’re applying to and make notes during this process.
Mentioning the year the company was founded or the name of its first CEO will not impress a recruiter. You aim to understand their mission, values, culture, and recent achievements or challenges.
The next step is to tailor your letter to show your experience and skills align with the company’s goals. Therefore, look for the points that correlate with your strengths and include them in the letter.
Address It Correctly
If possible, address the letter to the person responsible for recruitment. Avoid generic salutations to make your letter stand out.
If you don’t know whom to address your letter, do a quick research study and see if you can find this information online or in any other way. Take your time and focus on the little details to make your letter flawless.
Create a Clear and Concise Structure
Structure your letter with a clear beginning, middle, and end. Start with an engaging opening, follow with your qualifications, and why you’re a great fit. Close with a strong conclusion that does not leave a hiring manager any other option but to give you a call right away.
Here’s an example of an opening that captures a reader’s attention:
Having spent nine years in marketing, I’ve witnessed its evolution and potential for transformation firsthand. Today, I stand at the intersection of experience and enthusiasm. I’m writing to express my keen interest in joining your company as your next marketing director, where I can leverage my industry insights to contribute to your continued success.
Highlight Relevant Experience
Discuss your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that make you an ideal candidate. Use specific examples to demonstrate your abilities.
Again, it is crucial to be specific when you are writing about your accomplishments.
Don’t just write that you’ve made a considerable contribution to the success of the company you are working in, as this statement does not give a hiring manager any idea of your contribution to the process.
Instead, you can mention specific numbers:
While being the head of the marketing department, the company has been demonstrating stable growth in sales: +5,5% YoY during the last three years. Also, a recent research study showed a significant increase in the brand’s awareness among its target audience, from 43% to 55%, after two successful national marketing campaigns held last year.
Match Your Qualifications to the Job
Emphasize how your qualifications specifically align with the job requirements. Address key skills and qualifications mentioned in the job posting.
If the company you are applying to is looking for someone with strong negotiation skills, describe a real-life situation when your skills helped you get what you wanted.
When you write an application letter, you can include all the requirements on a separate paper sheet and then consider relevant examples that match some of the points on this list.
Show Enthusiasm
Express your genuine enthusiasm for the position and the company. Explain why you are interested in the job and how it matches your career goals.
Don’t try to come up with an unrealistic explanation and argumentation. Be genuine and describe the real reasons you’ve decided to apply for this position. There must be something apart from the financial remuneration you are looking for at the moment.
Customize Each Letter
Naturally, you might want to apply to several different job openings. Avoid using a generic template while doing so.
Customize your application letter for each job application to demonstrate that you’ve put effort and thought into every letter.
Every job opening has a list of specific requirements. Rely on them to create a convincing application. Include a short explanation of what made you apply for this particular job opening.
Consider Using Appropriate Tone
Maintain a professional tone throughout when you write an application letter. Avoid using overly casual language or jargon.
Also, consider the company’s positioning when you write your letter.
For instance, it might be appropriate to use a less formal tone when you are applying for a position at a young startup company that uses a more straightforward approach to communication than a multinational corporation with many decades of experience.
Address Potential Concerns
If you have any employment gaps or other potential concerns, address them briefly but positively.
Explain how these experiences have contributed to your skills. It is always a good idea to be the first one to discuss the elephant in the room before a hiring manager starts asking you all the unpleasant questions.
Include a Strong Closing
End your letter with a strong statement. It is the right place to mention your interest in the position once again.
Express your gratitude for considering your application. Include a call to action, such as requesting an interview, for example.
Finally, remember to proofread your letter. Typos and grammar mistakes are the last thing a hiring manager wants to see. You can get help from a professional editor who will do that for you or use tools like Grammarly to do it yourself.
Now that you know how to write an application letter, are you ready to get started?