In this article, we are going to discuss about job application letters. What is the purpose of a job application letter? how you can write a perfect job application letter? these are some questions that we are going to answer in today’s article.
The guidelines that we are going to discuss are for general purpose and can be used to create a perfect job application letter but these are not compulsory and you are not bounded to use these guidelines. However, these are some best practices that you should follow to write a perfect job application letter.
Your job letter is going to be read by the employer means the audience here is the employer. Make sure the content of your letter always includes your qualifications for the job. A cover letter usually consists of three main sections,
- An opening paragraph that specifies your purpose of writing.
- Body paragraphs to argue why you are qualified for the job.
- A closing paragraph that promotes goodwill.
Before writing your application letter, I suggest you carefully read the job posting in order to get an idea about the skills and qualifications needed for that particular job role. Most of the time, they are clearly listed and mentioned but not always.
Highlights your main skills in the resume that were asked by the employer in the job posting, this will increase your chances of getting an interview call.
Make sure you always add a letterhead inside your cover letter containing all your contact information so that the employer can easily reach out to you.
The opening paragraph should establish your purpose for writing:
Opening Paragraph (Establish Purpose)
I am applying for the Corporate Accounting Internship at Big Commercial Real Estate Development Corporation, which was posted in the CareerLink database at my college, Miami University of Ohio. Forecast your argument by saying something about your interest or how you meet a key requirement: As a junior accountancy major with an interest in commercial real estate, I believe that I qualify to be considered for this position.
In the body of your letter, you will make your case for why you are qualified for the position. You might have one or two paragraphs, depending on what you need to say. Focus first on required qualifications.
In this case you must be a junior accounting major from an accredited university, but that is already stated in your first paragraph. You must also have taken at least five accounting courses. Say what kind of accounting courses you have taken:
Body Paragraphs (Make Your Case)
By the end of my junior year I will have completed five courses in accounting. I have already taken two courses in financial accounting, one in managerial accounting, and another in accounting processes.
{This company is looking for someone with leadership ability, but it is not enough to say you have it. What exactly have you done that demonstrates leadership?:}
In addition, I have been involved with the Accounting Club since my freshman year. This year as recruitment chair, I organized Meet-the-Members social events to help potential members get to know our group and to answer their questions about our activities. These efforts resulted in 50 new members, which is a 100 percent increase from last year.
Next focus on desired qualifications:
Desired Qualifications
These include real estate experience and fluency in Spanish. Again, be brief, but specific: Last summer, I worked as an intern for a real-estate appraisal firm, which not only taught me more about managing the accounts of a small business, but also sparked my interest in commercial real estate.
In addition to bookkeeping, I interacted with property owners and bank representatives in person, over email, and by phone. I also assisted with appraisals of commercial properties.
This paragraph says nothing about Spanish. If you do not meet all the required or desired qualifications, don’t mention it or make excuses for it. Speak to your strengths. Let the company decide if your lack of Spanish should keep you out of the running.
In the closing paragraph, promote goodwill. Briefly restate your qualifications for or interest in the position: I meet the educational requirements for this position and have relevant experience in the real estate industry.
Accountancy within the commercial real estate industry is the area I intend to pursue as a career, so I would be excited to learn more about this opportunity.
Once you do that, you’ll want to thank them for considering your application: Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to hearing from you. Throughout the letter, you’ll want to maintain a respectful tone, and be sure to review your letter for style, formatting, and mechanics.
