Writing a Job Application Letter! (4 TIPS, Words & Phrases + JOB APPLICATION LETTER TEMPLATES!), by CareerVidz on YouTube. 8 min 28 s.
- Video length
- 8 min 28 s
- Time to do it
- 30 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Read the job advert and job description. Highlight the skills, qualifications and experience the employer asks for, then list your own matches next to each point.
Open a blank document and set it to one side of A4. Add your name, address, email and phone number at the top so the hiring manager can contact you.
Address the letter to the hiring manager by name if you can find it. If not, use a polite general greeting such as Dear Hiring Manager.
Write a strong opening sentence that names the job and says you are applying. Mention one relevant strength straight away to grab attention.
Use a short paragraph to match your skills to the job description. Give one or two concrete examples of work or study that prove each skill.
Explain why you want to work for that company. Refer to its products, services, values or recent work, not just your own needs.
Say how you will add value in the role. Name a result you could improve, a problem you could solve or a strength you would bring to the team.
Close with a clear call to action. Thank the hiring manager and say you would welcome the chance to discuss your application at an interview.
Keep the whole letter to one side of A4. Run a spell check and read it aloud to catch missing words, then send it by email and post if the advert allows.
Tips and common mistakes
Use set phrases such as I am writing to apply for and I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my application, but keep the tone natural.
Mirror the employer's words from the job description in your skills paragraph, but do not copy whole sentences.
Do not repeat your CV word for word; use the letter to explain why you fit the role and the company.
If you email the letter, save it as a PDF with your name and the job title in the file name.
Questions
How long should a job application letter be?
Keep it to one side of A4, with three to five short paragraphs. Hiring managers read many letters, so clear and concise works best.
What if I cannot find the hiring manager's name?
Use a polite greeting such as Dear Hiring Manager. Do not use To Whom It May Concern if you can avoid it.
Should I send the letter by email or post?
Follow the instructions in the job advert. If it allows both, send the letter by email and post to improve your chances of being seen.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
