Job Application Letter

Competition is fierce in the job market, even for positions that require a specific set of skills and abilities. The job application letter is your opportunity to convince an employer that you are the best candidate for the position. It serves as an introduction and focuses on your ability to make a worthwhile contribution to the hiring organization.

Format and Content

The first paragraph of the job application letter format provides a reason for the letter and includes the position you are applying for and where you learned of the opening. The body of the letter highlights your qualifications as they relate specifically to the job. Avoid vague repetitions of the information contained in the resume. Instead, provide the prospective employer with examples of how you used your skills and abilities to make a difference in your previous positions. Use the last paragraph to thank the employer and to provide your contact information.

Sample

In this job application letter sample the applicant is seeking a position listed on a popular internet job site. She read the job posting carefully to determine the skills and qualifications of most interest to the employer and uses them to describe her suitability for the position. The position she is applying for is heavily dependent on communication skills so she gives a brief overview of her qualifications along with how her past accomplishes benefited her previous employers.

Dear Mr. Smith

I am writing to apply for the Marketing Communication Specialist position in the Business Development Unit of USM International. I learned of the opening through the online job board Monster.com. I read the requirements and responsibilities of the job posting carefully and I strongly believe I have the experience, skills, and creative abilities to be a positive asset to your company.

I am experienced in working for national and international companies. My past responsibilities include researching and authoring strategic intelligence reports for upper management to assist in new product development. I envisioned and wrote a new-hire training manual that cut employee orientation and training time by 60% for a national building supply manufacturer. To combat delays in collateral ordering, I developed an online system that allows customers to log in and download marketing materials for specific products as needed.

I possess strong people skills and I forge productive relationships with coworkers in my own department and those from other departments within the organization. I have excellent written and oral communication skills and

I am well versed at presenting information in front of small and large groups and in creating written presentations for internal and external stakeholders. I have a Bachelor of Marketing Communications Degree and certifications in Strategic Management and Business Research Methods.

I am enclosing my resume for your consideration. I would appreciate an interview to discuss my qualifications for this opportunity with you in detail. Please feel free to call me at (555)-555-5555 at your convenience or you may reach me by email at [email] Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to speaking with you soon.

Respectfully,

Abbie Friego

Ms. Abbie Friego

Enclosure: Resume