Writing a Letter of Application

Purpose of a Letter of Application

• A letter of application is a sales letter that aims to attract an employer's attention and persuade them to grant an interview.
• The letter should present what the applicant can offer the employer, rather than what they want from the job.

Key Characteristics of a Letter of Application

• The letter should be written with flair and understanding, and prepared with professional care.
• It should be an opportunity to demonstrate skills and personality.
• The letter should be modest, neither aggressive nor compliant.

Content of a Letter of Application

• The letter should explicitly state how the applicant's background relates to the specific job.
• It should emphasize the applicant's strongest and most relevant characteristics.
• The letter should demonstrate that the applicant knows both themselves and the company.
• It should communicate ambition and enthusiasm.

What to Avoid in a Letter of Application

• Avoid discussing reasons for leaving the last job or expressing dissatisfaction with the present or former job or employer.
• Do not broach the subject of salary, even if required by the job advertisement; instead, mention it as "negotiable".
• However, be prepared to mention a salary range during an interview.

Preparing for an Interview

• Research the field to determine a reasonable salary range.
• If possible, research the particular company to be prepared for an interview.