How to Make an Application Letter

Application letters are an important attachment that job seekers should include with their résumé. An application or cover letter is essential when applying for a job. Some managers will not even review a résumé if an application letter is not included. It is the key to capturing the interest of the interviewer. The application letter is a type of "sales letter"--you are selling your skills to the interviewer. It can make or break your chances of landing a job interview.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Word processing software
• 8 1/2-x-11-inch white paper
• Résumé
• List of skills and work experience

Instructions

1. List your skills and accomplishments. Rank the items in order of importance or relevance to the job for which you are applying.

2. Fill in the details that coincide with the skills, education and accomplishments that you have listed. Focus on adding in-depth facts that prove you can perform the job in question. Review the job duties that are required so you can write about your specific expertise.

3. Write a rough draft of your application letter. Address the manager or interviewer formally using Mr. or Ms. and the person's last name, if available. Next, double-space and proceed with the contents of the letter. Begin the body of the letter with a sentence that will capture the attention of the reader. Introduce yourself by selling yourself to the interviewer. Instead of saying my name is Joe and I can sell your products, begin by stating an accomplishment like: I held the sales record at Blank Industries in 2007. I am ready to put my skills to work for your company and help you to earn record-breaking sales this year.

4. Once you have incorporated your abilities, relevant experience and education, you will need to proofread your work and run spell check to make sure there are no spelling or grammar errors in your application letter. These types of mistakes will raise a red flag for any manager or professional business person.

5. Format the application letter so your name and contact information appears in the upper left corner. Include the date in the right corner of the letter after your name and other information (triple space between the two). To end the application letter you can say, "I look forward to hearing from you at your earliest convenience," then close by typing "Sincerely" or "Regards" above your full name. Leave a large enough space between sincerely and your name so you can sign your name above the typed version of your name. By signing your name you are personalizing the letter and agreeing to its contents. Using a professional tone and formatting the letter correctly will score points with the person who will be reviewing the applicants.

6. When you have perfected the final draft, you should print it out on crisp, white 8 ½-by-11-inch paper. Use a traditional font like Arial, Verdana or Times New Roman. Don't want to use a fancy font that will distract from the purpose of your letter. Make sure the ink in your printer is full so the letter prints clearly.

7. Put the application letter in a matching #10 envelope with your résumé and other pertinent information that you are required to submit. Use the computer to print the mailing address and your return address directly on the envelope.

Tips & Warnings

• The application letter is your opportunity to sell yourself to prospective employers. Make sure that the document communicates why you are a good choice for the job. Remember: This letter is your sales pitch.

• Always type application letters and résumés; even if you hand-wrote the application, the other items should be typed.

• Write your own application letter or at least know what is in the letters so you can elaborate on the information during the interview. Too many people have someone else write their résumé and/or cover letter. They don't bother to read them so they are not familiar with the information they contain.

• If you have spelling errors and or grammatical mistakes in the application letter, it is likely you will not make it to the interview process.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Indiana University: Personal Statements and Application Letters