Kinds of Application Letters

There are several types of application letters sent to employers for different situations. These letters have similar content and qualities that set them apart from the others. If you're a career seeker, it pays to become familiar with them because employers and hiring managers are used to seeing similar letters with their resume submissions.

General

The general application letter is typically sent along with a resume to a potential employer, for an internship or temporary job. This letter is very generalized, and it summarizes the potential employee's experience and work history. It will mention the number of years of experience the applicant has. It also highlights a few achievements and awards if any apply to the position. It notes how related experience might apply toward the position being sought, when the applicant has no specific experience related directly to the position in question. It may also include a salary history if one is requested.

Specific

The specific cover letter contains more facts about the position and applicant. It includes the date of the job ad, the title and position being applied for along with experience that relates directly to that position. This letter will also mention how experience applies to the position if the applicant has held similar roles. This letter may or may not include a salary history. The specific information in this type of letter is geared toward making a match between the needs expressed in the job ad and the experience of the applicant.

Resume Letter

This application letter is useful for those reentering the working world after an absence or long layoff or for those who have a scattered work history with many gaps and breaks. The letter itself resembles a resume because it outlines all the skills and experience the potential employee has gained through his varied roles. This letter is a great choice when your resume will not properly explain or highlight the skills you bring to the table, or it is not a direct match to the role as outlined in the job listing.

Career Change Letter

This letter is best suited for those with experience in other fields who recently updated their skill sets with a new credential. Marketers who recently earned their master's degree, or managers who have received their master's of business administration, for instance, will use this letter. It is also suitable for engineers who just received their Ph.D. It explains how the new skill or achievement makes the potential employee more appealing and suited for the role the person is are applying for. This letter is always sent with a resume that backs up what the career change letter states.

References

• Career CC: Two Types of Cover Letters

Resources

• Proactive HRM: Job Application Letters