How To Write A Good Job Application Letter

In applying and landing your dream job, it is important to know how to write an application letter because virtually all jobs online have to be applied for using an application or cover letter. Knowing how to write a job application letter is a skill every job seeker should learn as it would stand you out among other thousands of job seekers in Nigeria.

What is a Job Application Letter?

A job application letter is also known as a cover letter; It is a letter that is sent to potential employees highlighting your competencies, qualifications and capabilities and why he should choose you over and above all other job seekers for the same job vacancy. The application or cover letter is also sent alongside your resume or CV as It is meant to be a supplement or a backup to your resume or CV.

Studies have shown that most employers first take a glance at your application letter before going through your resume or CV; this is the reason why writing a captivation application letter is key to standing out among other job seekers.

Why Is a Job Application letter So Important

Most job seekers would ask; Does anyone read my application letter? the answer is YES. In fact to most employers it serves as a prelude to knowing what to expect from your resume or cover letter and this would a go long way into knowing if you stand a chance to being called for an interview or not. So it is safe to say that a job application letter is as important as your resume or CV.

The majority of job hopefuls make the error of rushing through their application or cover letters, which comes across as disingenuous or uninterested in the position. Typing a cover letter for a job application may seem simple, but it's harder than you might think. You must maintain the letter's focus and be mindful of the tone you adopt. Although it can occasionally be challenging, it is necessary to summarize your professional background on one page.

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To make your job application stand out, follow these five cover letter writing dos and don'ts.

The Dos of a Standard Application Letter

1. Ensure that you make it easy for them to contact you

One major Do in writing a standard job application letter is to ensure you designate a section for your contact. Incorporate a means of communication into the correspondence. This information should only be included in a specific part and not in the letter's body. Having your complete name, address, email address, and a functional valid phone number should be the very minimum. You should have a professional and frequently checked email address. Doing this will make it easy for your employer to reach you whenever they want.

2. Address the letter to the Human resource manager , hiring manager or anyone in charge of recruitment

A key factor you should know when writing a job application letter for a latest job vacancy is that it should addressed to the person reading it. Make an effort in researching about the vacancy so as to know  who is in charge of recruitment be it the Head of Department or human resource Manager. A name in your cover letter shows that you have given the job role some thought and are sincere in your investigation. Therefore ensure to personalize your application letter.

3. Highlight your accomplishments, experiences, and abilities

Before proceeding with your letter; take a look at the job description of the job vacancy to be conversant with the job listing. Utilise the job description to identify pertinent experiences and abilities that align with the position. Describe your professional experiences in detail and demonstrate your suitability for the position. Connect the job vacancy to prior professional experience. You can demonstrate to the employer that you are familiar with the duties involved in the position by providing concrete examples of comparable work that you have completed. Giving specific instances rather than just discussing your successes is a fantastic approach to show them off.

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4. Share How to Intend Helping the Company

In writing this letter; it is important to show how you intend being of help to the organization. The recruiting manager is assessing how much value your experiences and skills can bring to the company. Discuss your abilities for the organisation and make a connection to the job description.

Talk briefly about the contributions you can make. If there is anything that makes you stand out from the other applicants, now would be the moment to mention it. Describe how you can bring balance to the office and enhance the team. What do you possess that the business wants or needs?

For instance, "I am sure that your organisation would benefit from my extensive experience in web development for F&B and retail apps."

5. Use Power and Polite Words

When demonstrating your abilities, use terms that convey impact, such as "achieved," "improved," and "managed," rather than just listing them.

Ensure that your letter is concise, formal, and courteous above all. Don't use any slang and speak correctly. Compose the letter on one page. You can personalize the letter by signing it with a pen. Additionally, show effort by letting them know how you plan to follow up with them—via email or by asking to speak with them for an interview. I appreciate all of their effort and thought.

The Don'ts of a Standard Application Letter

1. Never Use Generic Salutations

Using generic salutations like "To whom it may concern" when beginning your letter gives you away as an insincere and unserious and lazy person. Trust me you do not want to come across that way to your employer.

2. Do not Write A one letter catch all Letter

Writing an application letter for all job postings you plan to apply for may seem easier at first, but in the end, it won't be beneficial. To tailor your letter to the firm, make sure you write directly to each employer. Since every position is unique, it calls for a unique letter that highlights your qualities pertinent to that specific role.

3. Do Not Include Irrelevant Information

Since your letter is only one page long, it's critical that you omit any information that the employer doesn't need to know. A cover letter cannot be used to discuss your shortcomings or to address work experience that isn't relevant. Instead of drawing attention away from your resume with superfluous stuff, stick to positive and pertinent facts that will promote it.

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4. Do not Send in Your Application Letter Without Proof Reading

Misspellings, poor grammar, and typographical errors will undoubtedly be noted by the employer. That could give you a careless and unprofessional appearance. Make sure you peruse your application letter a minimum of three times on different dates. To ensure that there are no errors and that it flows well, have a buddy proofread it as well. Nothing is more frustrating than submitting your application and then finding a mistake.