Job Application LettersModule 28

Job Letter Components

• Major requirements of the job for which they’re applying.

• Points that separate them from other applicants.

Job Letter Components

• Points that show their knowledge of the organization.

• Qualities that every employer is likely to value: the ability to write and speak effectively, to solve problems, to get along with people.

Style and Content

• Address the letter to a specific person. If the reader is a woman, call the office to find out what courtesy title she prefers.

• Don't mention relatives’ names.

• Omit personal information not related to the job.

Style and Content

• Unless you’re applying for a creative job in advertising or Web design, use a conservative style: few contractions, no sentence fragments, clichés, or slang.

• Edit the letter carefully and proof it several times to make sure it’s perfect.

Solicited Letter

• State that you are applying for the job.

• Phrase the job title as the source phrased it.

• Develop major qualifications in detail.

• Develop other qualifications, even if the source didn’t ask for them.

• Ask for an interview.

Unsolicited (prospecting) letter

• Catch the reader’s attention.

• Create a bridge between the attention-getter and your qualifications.

• Focus on what you know and can do.

• Develop your strong points in detail.

• Ask for an interview.

Content

• Specific person.

• Indicate the specific position.

• Be specific about your qualifications.

• Separate yourself.

• Show knowledge of the company and position.

Content

• Show knowledge of the company and position.

• Refer to your résumé and ask for an interview.

• Use a second page if necessary.

• Use you-attitude.

• Use positive emphasis

Thank you.