Writing an Application Letter

A letter of application, or cover letter, is a letter sent with your CV to provide additional information on your skills and experience.

A letter of application typically provides detailed information on why you are qualified for the job you are applying for. Effective application letters outline the reasons for your interest in the specific organisation and identify your most relevant skills or experiences aligned to the job you are applying for.

How do you put a good application letter together?

Getting your application letter right is crucial when making a good first impression, it is also often your only opportunity to position yourself prior to being selected for an interview. It should be clear and to the point while being polite and eye catching.

Follow our "seven steps" to writing an application letter below to ensure you get off to a good start:

1. Research the company to learn about their business before you start writing
2. Study the job profile / person spec to get an insight into the role
3. Utilise & link to your CV for the key points related the role
4. Include examples that demonstrate initiative and enthusiasm
5. Be clear on what you have to offer would benefit the company
6. Include sufficient information to ensure the company want to learn more
7. Create a professional, visually appealing attractive format

Ensure your application letter lets the employer know what position you are applying for, why the employer should select you for an interview, and how you will follow-up. Below is a simple but effective format to follow:

Opening...

Dear Mr or Mrs - (If possible address the letter to a named manager in the company)

Dear Sir / Madam - (Only if you can not find a recipients name)

First paragraph...

The first paragraph of your cover letter should note where you found the job listing and express your interest in the position. Also indicate why the role is particularly attractive to you.

Second paragraph...

Introduce your CV and briefly summarise your skills, knowledge and/or experience of the company’s market or sector

Final paragraph...

Express confidence in your ability to contribute to the success of the company, and indicate that you look forward to taking your application a step further at interview. Finally say "Thank You" to the hiring manager for considering your application.

Complimentary close...

Yours sincerely - (if you know the recipients name)

Yours faithfully - (if you do not know the recipients name)

Your signature

A Typed signature