How To Write A Job Application Letter

As a job seeker in today’s competitive environment, it is of utmost importance to sell yourself to your potential employer, and your application letter is an excellent opportunity to do so.  It allows you to describe how your skills and experience makes you suitable for the position. The application letter helps the employer to have a better understanding of the applicant, and enables them to ascertain which candidate should be invited for an interview. Most employers will review your application letter before the CV, so ensure your letter is one that will compel the employer to review your CV as well!

Below are important tips that can serve as a guide for writing an excellent job application letter.

HIGHLIGHT YOUR PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE

Your application letter should explain why you are perfect for the job, and this can be done by highlighting your relevant past experience.

PROMOTE YOURSELF PROPERLY

The cover letter gives you the opportunity to relentlessly highlight to the employer how your skill set and experience will enable you to be effective at your job. Do not only point out your past accomplishments but also specifically point out what you expect to deliver on the job. Doing this shows the recruiter that you’re confident and well suited for the role.

DO NOT DUPLICATE YOUR CV

Ensure you do not replicate your CV while writing your application letter, rather use it as an opportunity to expand the points listed on your CV and also add every other detail that was left out of the CV which are important and will help enhance your chances of getting the job. Always write your application letter with the aim of showing to the recruiter that you’re a qualified and strong candidate, with sufficient professional skills and experience to function effectively to the role.

TAILOR YOUR APPLICATION LETTER TO SUIT THE JOB POSITION

It is important to adapt and personalize your application letter to suit the specific company and job position requirements.  Tailor your letter in a way that is of primary relevance to the job description stated by the company and also ensure the information is truthful and accurate.

BE PROFESSIONAL IN YOUR APPROACH

Employers are always looking for strong and confident professionals that can make a difference in their organisation. It is therefore not advisable to be informal in your language and tone when writing your letter, therefore apart from sticking to a certain level of formality, also pay close attention to details like how the employer perceives the presentation of your points.

 It’s important not to duplicate your CV in a job application letter, rather use the letter as an opportunity to sell yourself and highlight those key skills you think the recruiter will be interested in.