Application Letters or Just Great Cover Letters?

Your key to writing outstanding application letters and cover letters

Application Letters and Cover Letters help is on hand with an instant download of 23 Cover Letters from the author of this site. Download them without delay and you can use them immediately - see what is in the pack of 23 Cover Letters by clicking on the image on your right.

Great application letters must be all of these:

• Straight to the point without wasting too many words; in other words short and simple.

• Written in simple everyday language, don't go off into fits of fancy language.

• Easy to read and not too long - one page is ideal at most. It just needs a beginning, a middle and an end!

• Interesting from the very first line; say you're interested and suddenly the application is interesting.

• Matched to the advertisers style and language - you can use the words and phrases from the advert you are responding to.

• Focused on meeting their needs backed up with clear examples. Show you understand by matching their demands with real things you've done in your previous job or employment.

Great application letters should also show understanding by:

• Dealing with inferrals/ implications/ omissions. Easily said but what I mean is: try to read between the lines of their advert.

• Demonstrating specific achievements and skills that are relevant - be specific, be factual. Never generalize.

• Looking professional to the eye. Good quality paper and clear typeface are needed.

• Projecting enthusiasm and understanding of the job. Say why you are interested and want the job. Most don't bother.

• Voicing a desire to meet. You know you have what they need so ASSUME they will want to see you!

• Arriving on time!! Better late than never doesn't apply here.

A great application letter should also have a beginning, a middle and an end. Sounds simple; not so but you can do this if you follow my ideas through and use them in your own cover letters...

LETTERS YOU MAY NEED:

• Application or Covering letter in response to an advertisement in the press.

• Target or Direct Approach letter when you believe there is an unmet need.

• Letter to Recruitment Agency who may handle appropriate vacancies.

• Thank you letter. Courtesies like this can go a long way.

• Request for application form.

Take a look at these cover letter examples and see how you can adapt them for your own needs.

THE BASICS OF WRITING A GREAT COVERING LETTER

1. Always address to the person named in the advertisement;

2. Use the formal style Mr, Mrs, Miss, Ms at the first contact or until you are told otherwise.

3. Quote any reference number and job title.

4. Quote where you saw the advertisement and the date.

5. Show that you meet their requirements - as above.

6. Match your language to that used in the advertisement.

7. Be positive, show interest and enthusiasm.

8. Keep it brief (KISS)

Look at some examples then you'll see how easily you can write your own cover letters.

The basic rules are quite straightforward, yet it's surprising how some people burst into 'flowery' language as soon as they start to write a letter.

What happens to change people's vocabulary at this point is beyond me; perhaps there is some desire to display a highly tuned sense of language. If you are likely to get drawn that way just try this:

Would you say this?

"I enclose my curriculum vitae for your perusal wherein I have ennumerated my expertise..."

Yet some people write it!!

Resist the temptation, keep it simple and your application letters will be great. I promise.

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