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Job hunting, without a doubt, can be incredibly challenging even during the best of times. Hiring managers are always on the look-out for ‘ideal’ candidates.
While skills and qualifications improve your chances, you also need to make sure you stand out as a candidate in the application process. One of the most critical aspects of the job application process is writing an effective job application letter. It helps you stand out from the crowd and increases your chances of getting noticed.
Let’s look at how to make your application stand out.
What Is A Job Application Letter?
A job application letter is a standalone document that you submit to a potential employer. An application letter allows you to express your interest in the organization and the open position. You should highlight your skills, competencies and achievements in this letter. The purpose of writing a job application letter is to get the attention of the hiring manager evaluating your application.
Think of your job application letter as an opportunity. Use it to showcase aspects of your personality such as your professional goals and aspirations. You can also highlight how much you know or have learned about the organization you’re applying to and exceed a potential employer’s expectations.
How To Write A Job Application Letter?
There are several things to be mindful of when writing a job application. Your letter should be able to convince your potential hiring manager of your capabilities. Here are some useful tips for writing an effective job application letter:
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Don’t Replicate Your Resume:
An application letter should show how you are a good fit for the position that you’re applying for. As your qualifications and achievements are already presented in your resume, you shouldn’t simply copy-paste that information into your application letter. Instead, elaborate on how you can apply your knowledge and skills to advance the company’s goals.
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Tailor Each Application:
When job-hunting, you may be applying to multiple organizations at the same time. While the application format of your letters should remain consistent, you should also tailor your application letters to suit the company and the position you are applying for. Try to personalize every letter after adequate research about the company’s objectives, mission and vision.
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Proofread carefully:
You should read your application letter a few times before you send it out. Proofreading will help you check for any errors that can affect the quality of your application letter. In short, this step gives you a chance to double-check your job application letter format. Hiring managers appreciate well-structured and properly formatted error-free applications.
Harappa Education’s Writing Proficiently course will help you make your written communication stand out. This online course will teach you how to structure your thoughts better and write with a level of confidence that’ll impress and persuade your readers. The GRT framework in particular will help you identify your goal, recipient and tone in your writing.
Job Application Letter Format
Before you write a job application letter, think about the application format you’re going to use. If you want to appear professional, you need to pay attention to the details of the application format. Consider this standard yet effective job application letter format the next time you plan to write a letter:
Your Name
Your Address
Your Phone Number
Your Email Address
Date
Name of Hiring Manager
Job Title of Hiring Manager
Organization Name
Organization Address
Salutation (Dear ‘employer name’)
First Paragraph:
This paragraph should state your objective behind writing the letter. In short, express your interest in working with the company. It helps when you mention the position you’re applying for and where you found the job listing.
Second Paragraph:
This section can include a single paragraph or a collection of small paragraphs. Whichever format you prefer, remember not to make this part of your letter unnecessarily lengthy. This is where you make your case and show why you’re the best fit. Share your background in a few lines and connect your qualifications with the job expectations.
Third Paragraph:
This final paragraph is where you conclude your application. Take this opportunity to thank your potential employer for considering your candidacy. Mention that you’re happy to provide more information if required.
Closing (Sincerely,)
Your Signature
Your Full Name
Conclusion
Good writing reflects clear thinking on part of the writer. There’s no time like now to start showing clarity of thought in your writing. Embrace effective writing strategies that help you shine the next time you apply for a job.
Explore topics such as Guide to Answering “Tell Me About Yourself” in an Interview, What are Action Words & Resignation Letter Format from our Harappa Diaries blog section and learn to write proficiently.
