what does application letter mean

How to Write a Cover Letter [Full Guide & Examples for 2024]

After weeks of heavy job searching, you’re almost there!

You’ve perfected your resume.

You’ve short-listed the coolest jobs you want to apply for.

You’ve even had a friend train you for every single interview question out there.

But then, before you can send in your application and call it a day, you remember that you need to write a cover letter too.

So now, you’re stuck staring at a blank page, wondering where to start...

Don’t panic! We’ve got you covered. Writing a cover letter is a lot simpler than you might think. 

In this guide, we’re going to teach you how to write a cover letter that gets you the job you deserve.

We're going to cover:

What Is a Cover Letter?

• How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter, Step by Step
• 15+ Job-Winning Cover Letter Examples

Let’s get started.

A cover letter is a document that you submit as part of your job application, alongside your resume or CV.

The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce you and briefly summarize your professional background. On average, it should be around 250 to 400 words long .

A good cover letter is supposed to impress the hiring manager and convince them you’re worth interviewing as a candidate.

So, how can your cover letter achieve this?

First of all, it should complement your resume, not copy it. Your cover letter is your chance to elaborate on important achievements, skills, or anything else that your resume doesn’t give you the space to cover. 

For example, if you have an employment gap on your resume, the cover letter is a great place to explain why it happened and how it helped you grow as a person. 

If this is your first time writing a cover letter, writing about yourself might seem complicated. But don’t worry—you don’t need to be super creative or even a good writer .

All you have to do is follow this tried and tested cover letter structure:

• Header. Add all the necessary contact information at the top of your cover letter.
• Formal greeting. Choose an appropriate way to greet your target audience.
• Introduction. Introduce yourself in the opening paragraph and explain your interest in the role.
• Body. Elaborate on why you’re the best candidate for the job and a good match for the company. Focus on “selling” your skills, achievements, and relevant professional experiences.
• Conclusion. Summarize your key points and wrap it up professionally.

Now, let’s take a look at an example of a cover letter that follows our structure perfectly:

New to cover letter writing? Give our cover letter video a watch before diving into the article!

When Should You Write a Cover Letter?

You should always include a cover letter in your job application, even if the hiring manager never reads it. Submitting a cover letter is as important as submitting a resume if you want to look like a serious candidate.

If the employer requests a cover letter as part of the screening process, not sending one is a huge red flag and will probably get your application tossed into the “no” pile immediately.

On the other hand, if the job advertisement doesn’t require a cover letter from the candidates, adding one shows you went the extra mile.

Putting in the effort to write a cover letter can set you apart from other candidates with similar professional experience and skills, and it could even sway the hiring manager to call you for an interview if you do it right.

Need to write a letter to help get you into a good school or volunteer program? Check out our guide to learn how to write a motivation letter !

How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter

Now that you know what a cover letter is, it’s time to learn how to write one!

We’ll go through the process in detail, step by step.

#1. Choose the Right Cover Letter Template

A good cover letter is all about leaving the right first impression.

So, what’s a better way to leave a good impression than a well-formatted, stylish template?

Just choose one of our hand-picked cover letter templates , and you’ll be all set in no time!

As a bonus, our intuitive AI will even give you suggestions on how to improve your cover letter as you write it. You’ll have the perfect cover letter done in minutes!

#2. Put Contact Information in the Header

As with a resume, it’s important to 

start your cover letter

 with your contact details at the top. These should be in your cover letter’s header, separated neatly from the bulk of your text.

Here, you want to include all the essential contact information , including:

• Full Name. Your first and last name should stand out at the top.
• Job Title. Match the professional title underneath your name to the exact job title of the position you’re applying for. Hiring managers often hire for several roles at once, so giving them this cue about what role you’re after helps things go smoother.
• Email Address. Always use a professional and easy-to-spell email address. Ideally, it should combine your first and last names.
• Phone Number. Add a number where the hiring manager can easily reach you.
• Location. Add your city and state/country, no need for more details.
• Relevant Links (optional). You can add links to websites or social media profiles that are relevant to your field. Examples include a LinkedIn profile , Github, or an online portfolio.

Then it’s time to add the recipient’s contact details, such as:

• Hiring Manager's Name. If you can find the name of the hiring manager, add it.
• Hiring Manager's Title. While there’s no harm in writing “hiring manager,” if they’re the head of the department, we recommend you use that title accordingly.
• Company Name. Make sure to write the name of the company you're applying to.
• Location. The city and state/country are usually enough information here, too.
• Date of Writing (Optional). You can include the date you wrote your cover letter for an extra professional touch.

#3. Address the Hiring Manager

Once you’ve properly listed all the contact information, it’s time to start writing the content of the cover letter.

The first thing you need to do here is to address your cover letter directly to the hiring manager.

In fact, you want to address the hiring manager personally .

Forget the old “Dear Sir or Madam” or the impersonal “To Whom It May Concern.” You want to give your future boss a good impression and show them that you did your research before sending in your application.

No one wants to hire a job seeker who just spams 20+ companies and hopes something sticks with their generic approach

So, how do you find out who’s the hiring manager?

First, check the job ad. The hiring manager’s name might be listed somewhere in it.

If that doesn’t work, check the company’s LinkedIn page. You just need to look up the head of the relevant department you’re applying to, and you’re all set.

For example, if you’re applying for the position of Communication Specialist at Novorésumé. The hiring manager is probably the Head of Communications or the Chief Communications Officer.

Here’s what you should look for on LinkedIn:

And there you go! You have your hiring manager.

But let’s say you’re applying for a position as a server . In that case, you’d be looking for the “restaurant manager” or “food and beverage manager.”

If the results don’t come up with anything, try checking out the “Team” page on the company website; there’s a good chance you’ll at least find the right person there.

Make sure to address them as Mr. or Ms., followed by their last name. If you’re not sure about their gender or marital status, you can just stick to their full name, like so:

• Dear Mr. Kurtuy,
• Dear Andrei Kurtuy,

But what if you still can’t find the hiring manager’s name, no matter where you look?

No worries. You can direct your cover letter to the company, department, or team as a whole, or just skip the hiring manager’s name.

• Dear [Department] Hiring Manager
• Dear Hiring Manager
• Dear [Department] Team
• Dear [Company Name]

Are you applying for a research position? Learn how to write an academic personal statement .

#4. Write an Eye-Catching Introduction

First impressions matter, especially when it comes to your job search.

Hiring managers get hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of applications. Chances are, they’re not going to be reading every single cover letter end-to-end.

So, it’s essential to catch their attention from the very first paragraph.

The biggest problem with most opening paragraphs is that they’re usually extremely generic. Here’s an example:

• My name is Jonathan, and I’d like to work as a Sales Manager at XYZ Inc. I’ve worked as a Sales Manager at MadeUpCompany Inc. for 5+ years, so I believe that I’d be a good fit for the position.

See the issue here? This opening paragraph doesn’t say anything except the fact that you’ve worked the job before.

And do you know who else has similar work experience? All the other applicants you’re competing with.

Instead, you want to start with some of your top achievements to grab the reader’s attention. And to get the point across, the achievements should be as relevant as possible to the position.

Your opening paragraph should also show the hiring manager a bit about why you want this specific job. For example, mention how the job relates to your plans for the future or how it can help you grow professionally. This will show the hiring manager that you’re not just applying left and right—you’re actually enthusiastic about getting this particular role.

Now, let’s make our previous example shine:

Dear Mr. Smith,

My name’s Michael, and I’d like to help XYZ Inc. hit and exceed its sales goals as a Sales Manager. I’ve worked as a Sales Representative with Company X, another fin-tech company , for 3+ years, where I generated an average of $30,000+ in sales per month and beat the KPIs by around 40%. I believe that my previous industry experience, passion for finance , and excellence in sales make me the right candidate for the job.

The second candidate starts with what they can do for the company in the future and immediately lists an impressive and relevant achievement. Since they’re experienced in the same industry and interested in finance, the hiring manager can see they’re not just a random applicant.

From this introduction, it’s safe to say that the hiring manager would read the rest of this candidate’s cover letter.

#5. Use the Cover Letter Body for Details

The next part of your cover letter is where you can go into detail about what sets you apart as a qualified candidate for the job.

The main thing you need to remember here is that you shouldn’t make it all about yourself . Your cover letter is supposed to show the hiring manager how you relate to the job and the company you’re applying to.

No matter how cool you make yourself sound in your cover letter, if you don’t tailor it to match what the hiring manager is looking for, you’re not getting an interview.

To get this right, use the job ad as a reference when writing your cover letter. Make sure to highlight skills and achievements that match the job requirements, and you’re good to go.

Since this part of your cover letter is by far the longest, you should split it into at least two paragraphs.

Here’s what each paragraph should cover:

Explain Why You’re the Perfect Candidate for the Role

Before you can show the hiring manager that you’re exactly what they’ve been looking for, you need to know what it is they’re looking for.

Start by doing a bit of research. Learn what the most important skills and responsibilities of the role are according to the job ad, and focus on any relevant experience you have that matches them.

For example, if you’re applying for the position of a Facebook Advertiser. The top requirements on the job ad are:

• Experience managing a Facebook ad budget of $10,000+ / month
• Some skills in advertising on other platforms (Google Search + Twitter)
• Excellent copywriting skills

So, in the body of your cover letter, you need to show how you meet these requirements. Here’s an example of what that can look like:

In my previous role as a Facebook Marketing Expert at XYZ Inc. I handled customer acquisition through ads, managing a monthly Facebook ad budget of $40,000+ . As the sole digital marketer at the company, I managed the ad creation and management process end-to-end. I created the ad copy and images, picked the targeting, ran optimization trials, and so on.

Other than Facebook advertising, I’ve also delved into other online PPC channels, including:

• Google Search

Our example addresses all the necessary requirements and shows off the candidate’s relevant skills.

Are you a student applying for your first internship? Learn how to write an internship cover letter with our dedicated guide.

Explain Why You’re a Good Fit for the Company

As skilled and experienced as you may be, that’s not all the hiring manager is looking for.

They also want someone who’s a good fit for their company and who actually wants to work there.

Employees who don’t fit in with the company culture are likely to quit sooner or later. This ends up costing the company a ton of money, up to 50% of the employee’s annual salary , so hiring managers vet candidates very carefully to avoid this scenario.

So, you have to convince the hiring manager that you’re passionate about working with them.

Start by doing some research about the company. You want to know things like:

• What’s the company’s business model?
• What’s the company’s product or service? Have you used it?
• What’s the company’s culture like?

Chances are, you’ll find all the information you need either on the company website or on job-search websites like Jobscan or Glassdoor.

Then, pick your favorite thing about the company and talk about it in your cover letter.

But don’t just describe the company in its own words just to flatter them. Be super specific—the hiring manager can see through any fluff.

For example, if you’re passionate about their product and you like the company’s culture of innovation and independent work model, you can write something like:

I’ve personally used the XYZ Smartphone, and I believe that it’s the most innovative tech I’ve used in years. The features, such as Made-Up-Feature #1 and Made-Up-Feature #2, were real game changers for the device.

I really admire how Company XYZ strives for excellence in all its product lines, creating market-leading tech. As someone who thrives in a self-driven environment, I truly believe that I’ll be a great match for your Product Design team.

So, make sure to do your fair share of research and come up with good reasons why you're applying to that specific company.

Is the company you want to work for not hiring at the moment? Check out our guide to writing a letter of interest .

#6. Wrap It Up and Sign It

Finally, it’s time to conclude your cover letter.

In the final paragraph, you want to:

• Wrap up any points you couldn't make in the previous paragraphs. Do you have anything left to say? If there’s any other information that could help the hiring manager make their decision, mention it here. If not, just recap your key selling points so far, such as key skills and expertise.
• Express gratitude. Politely thanking the hiring manager for their time is always a good idea.
• Finish the cover letter with a call to action. The very last sentence in your cover letter should be a call to action. This means you should ask the hiring manager to do something, like call you and discuss your application or arrange an interview.
• Remember to sign your cover letter. Just add a formal closing line and sign your name at the bottom.

Here’s an example of how to end your cover letter :

I hope to help Company X make the most of their Facebook marketing initiatives. I'd love to further discuss how my previous success at XYZ Inc. can help you achieve your Facebook marketing goals. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at the provided email address or phone number so that we may arrange an interview.

Thank you for your consideration,

Alice Richards

Feel free to use one of these other popular closing lines for your cover letter:

• Best Regards,
• Kind Regards,

Cover Letter Writing Checklist

Once you’re done with your cover letter, it’s time to check if it meets all industry requirements. 

Give our handy cover letter writing checklist a look to make sure:

Does your cover letter heading include all essential information?

• Professional Email
• Phone Number
• Relevant Links

Do you address the right person? 

• The hiring manager in the company
• Your future direct supervisor
• The company/department in general

Does your introductory paragraph grab the reader's attention?

• Did you mention some of your top achievements?
• Did you use numbers and facts to back up your experience?
• Did you convey enthusiasm for the specific role?

Do you show that you’re the right candidate for the job?

• Did you identify the core requirements for the role?
• Did you show how your experiences helped you fit the requirements perfectly?

Do you convince the hiring manager that you’re passionate about the company you’re applying to?

• Did you identify the top 3 things that you like about the company?
• Did you avoid generic reasons for explaining your interest in the company?

Did you conclude your cover letter properly?

• Did you recap your key selling points in the conclusion?
• Did you end your cover letter with a call to action?
• Did you use the right formal closing line and sign your name?

15 Cover Letter Tips

Now you’re all set to write your cover letter! 

Before you start typing, here are some cover letter tips to help take your cover letter to the next level:

• Customize Your Cover Letter for Each Job. Make sure your cover letter is tailored to the job you're applying for. This shows you're not just sending generic applications left and right, and it tells the hiring manager you’re the right person for the job.
• Showcase Your Skills. Talk about how your skills meet the company’s needs. And while your hard skills should be front and center, you shouldn’t underestimate your soft skills in your cover letter either.
• Avoid Fluff. Don’t make any generic statements you can’t back up. The hiring manager can tell when you’re just throwing words around, and it doesn’t make your cover letter look good.
• Use Specific Examples. Instead of saying you're great at something, give an actual example to back up your claim. Any data you can provide makes you sound more credible, so quantify your achievements. For example, give numbers such as percentages related to your performance and the timeframe it took to accomplish certain achievements.
• Research the Company. Always take time to learn about the company you're applying to. Make sure to mention something about them in your cover letter to show the hiring manager that you're interested.
• Follow the Application Instructions. If the job posting asks for something specific in your cover letter or requires a certain format, make sure you include it. Not following instructions can come off as unattentive or signal to the hiring manager that you’re not taking the job seriously.
• Use the Right Template and Format. Choose the right cover letter format and adapt your cover letter’s look to the industry you’re applying for. For example, if you’re aiming for a job in Law or Finance, you should go for a cleaner, more professional look. But if you’re applying for a field that values innovation, like IT or Design, you have more room for creativity.
• Express Your Enthusiasm. Let the hiring manager know why you're excited about the job. Your passion for the specific role or the field in general can be a big selling point, and show them that you’re genuinely interested, not just applying left and right.
• Address Any Gaps. If there are any employment gaps in your resume , your cover letter is a great place to mention why. Your resume doesn’t give you enough space to elaborate on an employment gap, so addressing it here can set hiring managers at ease—life happens, and employers understand.
• Avoid Quirky Emails. Your email address should be presentable. It’s hard for a hiring manager to take you seriously if your email address is “[email protected].” Just use a [email protected] format.
• Check Your Contact Information. Typos in your email address or phone number can mean a missed opportunity. Double-check these before sending your application.
• Mention if You Want to Relocate. If you’re looking for a job that lets you move somewhere else, specify this in your cover letter.
• Keep It Brief. You want to keep your cover letter short and sweet. Hiring managers don’t have time to read a novel, so if you go over one page, they simply won’t read it at all.
• Use a Professional Tone. Even though a conversational tone isn’t a bad thing, remember that it's still a formal document. Show professionalism in your cover letter by keeping slang, jargon, and emojis out of it.
• Proofread Carefully. Typos and grammar mistakes are a huge deal-breaker. Use a tool like Grammarly or QuillBot to double-check your spelling and grammar, or even get a friend to check it for you.

15+ Cover Letter Examples

Need some inspiration? Check out some perfect cover letter examples for different experience levels and various professions.

5+ Cover Letter Examples by Experience

#1. college student cover letter example.

Check out our full guide to writing a college student cover letter here.

#2. Middle Management Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a project manager cover letter here.

#3. Team Leader Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a team leader cover letter here.

#4. Career Change Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to a career change resume and cover letter here.

#5. Management Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a management cover letter here.

#6. Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing an executive resume here.

9+ Cover Letter Examples by Profession

#1. it cover letter example.

Check out our full guide to writing an IT cover letter here.

#2. Consultant Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a consultant cover letter here.

#3. Human Resources Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a human resources cover letter here.

#4. Business Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a business cover letter here.

#5. Sales Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a sales cover letter here.

#6. Social Worker Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a social worker cover letter here.

#7. Lawyer Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a lawyer cover letter here.

#8. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing an administrative assistant cover letter here.

#9. Engineering Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing an engineer cover letter here.

#10. Receptionist Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a receptionist cover letter here.

Need more inspiration? Check out these cover letter examples to learn what makes them stand out.

Plug & Play Cover Letter Template

Not sure how to start your cover letter? Don’t worry!

Just copy and paste our free cover letter template into the cover letter builder, and swap out the blanks for your details.

[Your Full Name]

[Your Profession]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Location]

[Your LinkedIn Profile URL (optional)]

[Your Personal Website URL (optional)]

[Recipient's Name, e.g., Jane Doe],

[Recipient's Position, e.g., Hiring Manager]

[Company Name, e.g., ABC Corporation]

[Company Address]

[City, State/Country]

Dear [Recipient's Name],

As a seasoned [Your Profession] with [Number of Years of Experience] years of industry experience, I am eager to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. With my experience in [Your Industry/Sector] and the successes I've achieved throughout my education and career, I believe I can bring unique value and creativity to your team.

In my current role as [Your Current Job Title], I've taken the lead on more than [Number of Projects/Assignments] projects, some valued up to $[Highest Project Value]. I pride myself on consistently exceeding client expectations and have successfully [Mention a Key Achievement] in just a [Amount of Time] through [Skill] and [Skill].

I've collaborated with various professionals, such as [List Roles], ensuring that all [projects/tasks] meet [relevant standards or objectives]. This hands-on experience, coupled with my dedication to understanding each [client's/customer's] vision, has equipped me to navigate and deliver on complex projects.

My key strengths include:

• Improving [Achievement] by [%] over [Amount of Time] which resulted in [Quantified Result].
• Optimizing [Work Process/Responsibility] which saved [Previous Employer] [Amount of Time/Budget/Other Metric] over [Weeks/Months/Years]
• Spearheading team of [Number of People] to [Task] and achieving [Quantified Result].

Alongside this letter, I've attached my resume. My educational background, a [Your Degree] with a concentration in [Your Specialization], complements the practical skills that I'm particularly eager to share with [Company Name].

I'm excited about the possibility of contributing to [Something Notable About the Company or Its Mission]. I'd be grateful for the chance to delve deeper into how my expertise aligns with your needs.

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

The Heart of Your Job Search - Creating a Killer Resume

Your cover letter is only as good as your resume. If either one is weak, your entire application falls through.

After all, your cover letter is meant to complement your resume. Imagine going through all this effort to leave an amazing first impression in your cover letter, only for the hiring manager to never read it because your resume was mediocre.

But don’t worry; we’ve got you covered here, too.

Check out our dedicated guide on how to make a resume and learn everything you need to know to land your dream job!

Just pick one of our resume templates and start writing your own job-winning resume.

Key Takeaways

Now that we’ve walked you through all the steps of writing a cover letter, let’s summarize everything we’ve learned:

• A cover letter is a 250 - 400 word document that’s meant to convince the hiring manager that you’re the best candidate for the job.
• Your job application should always include a cover letter alongside your resume.
• To grab the hiring manager’s attention, write a strong opening paragraph. Mention who you are, why you’re applying, and a standout achievement to pique their interest.
• Your cover letter should focus on why you’re the perfect candidate for the job and why you’re passionate about working in this specific company.
• Use the body of your cover letter to provide details on your skills, achievements, and qualifications, as well as make sure to convey your enthusiasm throughout your whole cover letter.
• Recap your key selling points towards the end of your cover letter, and end it with a formal closing line and your full name signed underneath.

At Novorésumé, we’re committed to helping you get the job you deserve every step of the way! 

Follow our career blog for more valuable advice, or check out some of our top guides, such as:

• How to Make a Resume in 2024 | Beginner's Guide
• How to Write a CV (Curriculum Vitae) in 2024 [31+ Examples]
• 35+ Job Interview Questions and Answers [Full List]

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Job Application Letter Format and Writing Tips

• Tips for Writing an Application Letter

Job Application Letter Format

Job application letter template, job application letter example.

• Job Application Email Example

A job application letter (also known as a cover letter) is a letter you send with your resume to provide information on your skills and experience. This letter is your chance to “sell” yourself to an employer, explaining why you are an ideal candidate for a position.

When you write your job application letter, it’s essential to pay close attention to formatting . There’s a right way to format a cover letter; deviate from the standard guidelines and hiring managers may drop you from consideration.

In fact, anything that makes your job application letter appear less than professional can prevent hiring managers from taking you seriously as a candidate. Make sure your cover letter is formatted properly and is free from errors before you send. 

Tips for Writing a Job Application Letter

Do not copy your resume. A cover letter is a sales pitch. The purpose of this letter is to convince the hiring manager that you’re a strong candidate and to highlight your relevant experience and abilities. Your application letter should show how exactly your background makes you a good fit for a particular position. In contrast, your resume is a general record of your experience, education, and accomplishments.

Tailor each application letter to the job. As mentioned above, emphasize in your letter why you are an ideal candidate for the specific job. This requires that you personalize each letter to fit the company and position. Match your qualifications to the job posting by highlighting the skills, experience, and requirements listed in the description.

Be professional. Application letters have a fairly rigid format—as hiring managers read your letter, they will expect to see certain information included in set areas. You have freedom within the structure to be personable, but it is important to stick to a certain level of formality. Pay particular attention to the professionalism of your salutation . You wouldn't, for instance, want to refer to the letter's recipient by their first name unless specifically requested.

Carefully proofread. Employers are likely to overlook an application with a lot of errors. Therefore, read through your cover letter, and even consider asking a friend or career counselor to read the letter. Proofread for grammar and spelling errors. Be particularly mindful to spell the letter recipient's name correctly, as well as the company name.

Follow business letter format. Use business letter format when writing your letter. If you’re sending a typed hard-copy letter, be sure to lead with a paragraph containing your address, followed by the date, followed by the address of the recipient. If you’re sending an email, you can omit the address and date sections.  

Decide whether to send a hard copy or email. The main difference in formatting an email application letter is that you need to include a subject line that clearly lays out your purpose for writing, e.g. “Graphic Designer—Joe Smith.” And, instead of placing your contact information at the top of the letter, as you would in a hard copy, you'll include it below your signature.

Since your application letter will be accompanied by your resume, make sure the letter does not duplicate your resume exactly.

Use this formatting information as a guideline when writing your customized application letters , so you know what information goes where.  

Contact Information Name Address City, State Zip Code Phone Number Email Address

Employer Contact Information (if you have it) Name Title Company Address City, State Zip Code

Salutation Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name, (leave out if you don't have a contact)

Body of Application Letter The body of your application letter lets the employer know what position you are applying for, why the employer should select you for an interview, and how you will follow up. See below for a paragraph-by-paragraph breakdown of the body of the letter.

First Paragraph The  first paragraph  of your letter should include information on why you are writing. Mention the job you are applying for and where you found the job listing. Include the name of a mutual contact, if you have one. You might conclude by briefly and concisely saying why you think you are an ideal candidate for the job.

Middle Paragraph(s) The next section of your application letter should describe what you have to offer the employer.

It can be a single paragraph, or you can break it up into a couple of paragraphs. If the section gets lengthy, you may use bullet points to break up the text. Remember, you are interpreting your resume, not repeating it.

Mention specifically how  your qualifications match the job  you are applying for. In this portion of the letter, make your case for your candidacy.

It can be helpful to spend some time researching the company —this knowledge and insight helps you make an informed and persuasive argument for your candidacy.

Use specific examples whenever possible. For example, if you say that you have lots of experience working successfully on team projects, provide an example of a time you worked in a group and achieved success.

Final Paragraph Conclude your application letter by thanking the employer for considering you for the position. Include information on how you will follow up.

Complimentary Close (examples)

Signature (for a hard copy letter)

Typed Signature

Download the job application letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

Melissa Brown 11 South Street Harbor View, Maine 04005 555-555-5555 melissa.brown@email.com

July 14, 2021

Jason Rivera Human Resources Director Avery Solutions, Inc. 700 Commerce Way Harbor View, Maine 04005

Dear Mr. Rivera,

I was excited when my former colleague, Stephanie Taylor, told me that you were hiring for a Human Resources Specialist at Avery Solutions.

Stephanie has told me how important teamwork is to your group at Avery, and how much you need an HR Specialist who can fit in with the department and hit the ground running on day one. I believe that I am the ideal candidate for your team.

In my current job at Smith Group, I created and run our onboarding program, including organizing background checks and new hire orientation. I also have extensive experience in:

• Data reporting/data entry on HRIS software
• Recruiting and hiring processes, including creating job descriptions and postings, screening resumes, and scheduling interviews
• Producing company events, such as the annual company-wide picnic (100+ employees from across the country)

I’d love to speak with you about my qualifications and what I can do for your team. I’ve attached my resume for your consideration. Please don’t hesitate to contact me on my cell at 555-555-5555 with questions or to arrange an interview.

Best regards,

Signature (hard copy letter)

Melissa Brown

Job Application Email Example 

Subject Line: George Woo – Editorial Assistant

Dear Ms. Cortez,

I was excited when Ada Wilson told me that you were looking for an editorial assistant with a background in rights and research and a passion for digital media. She suggested that I throw my hat in the ring, and I’d love the opportunity to tell you more about what I can offer your team.

I’ve interned for Ada’s team for the past three summers, developing extensive experience with the rights and research process. Last year, I was instrumental in securing the rights to include Sara Frey’s poems in our digital anthology – a first for an online publisher, according to Ms. Frey’s estate.

I also have:

• Expertise with most popular content management systems, including WordPress
• Analytics knowledge, including expert-level facility with Google Analytics
• A strong work ethic and commitment to meeting deadlines

I hope you’ll reach out at your convenience to tell me more about your team’s goals and needs for the coming year. You can reach me on my cell at 555-123-4567 or via email at George.Woo@email.com.

How to Get Your Application Noticed

Don’t copy your resume: Your job application letter is a sales pitch. Don’t regurgitate your resume; instead, use this document to sell the hiring manager on your skills.

Tailor your application letter to the job: Match your skills and qualifications to the job description, highlighting those that make you an ideal candidate.

Be professional: Use business letter format and be sure to proofread your letter before you send.

CareerOneStop. " How Do I Write a Cover Letter ?" Accessed July 14, 2021.

CareerOneStop. " Write Effective Cover Letters ." Accessed July 14, 2021.

Purdue University. " Writing the Basic Business Letter ." Accessed July 14, 2021.

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• Job Application Documents

How to Write a Job Application Letter (with Examples)

Last Updated: March 21, 2024 Fact Checked

Sample Letters

Introduction, body paragraphs, closing your letter, expert q&a.

This article was written by Shannon O'Brien, MA, EdM and by wikiHow staff writer, Aly Rusciano . Shannon O'Brien is the Founder and Principal Advisor of Whole U. (a career and life strategy consultancy based in Boston, MA). Through advising, workshops and e-learning Whole U. empowers people to pursue their life's work and live a balanced, purposeful life. Shannon has been ranked as the #1 Career Coach and #1 Life Coach in Boston, MA by Yelp reviewers. She has been featured on Boston.com, Boldfacers, and the UR Business Network. She received a Master's of Technology, Innovation, & Education from Harvard University. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 10,651,933 times.

So, you’ve found your dream job and want to make sure you nail the job application process. You double- and triple-check the criteria—they’re asking for a cover letter. What does that mean, and how do you write it? A cover letter or letter of application is a single page that sums up why you want and deserve the job. Think of it as an extension of your resume; a sales pitch for why you’re the perfect candidate. We’ve put together a step-by-step guide full of examples and tips on how to write a letter of application for a job. With our help and a little finesse, you may soon be calling that dream job your own.

Things You Should Know

• Format your application letter single-spaced and in Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri font that’s 10- to 12-point in size.
• Open your letter with an engaging and confident first paragraph that briefly includes your qualifications, where you found the job, and your overall interest in the position.
• Show your personality in the body paragraphs by describing the passions that relate to the position in 1 or 2 sentences.
• Use keywords (like leadership, communication, and detail-oriented) from the job description throughout your letter to show that you’ve done your research.

• First and last name
• Phone number
• Email address
• Personal website and/or portfolio link (if you have one)

• If you don’t know the hiring manager's name, search the company’s website or refer to the name of the individual who originally posted the job opening.
• If you’re in doubt about who to address your letter to, use “[Department] Hiring Manager.”

• If you don’t have the employer or hiring manager’s name, use a general but professional opening, “To Whom It May Concern” or “Dear [Department] Hiring Manager.”

• Be short and specific in this opening paragraph—save those details for later.
• Think of your first paragraph as a sales pitch. What can you say that’ll grab their attention immediately? Is there something you have that other candidates don’t that make you more qualified for the position?
• Show the employer that you’re familiar with the company and job application by noting keywords and characteristics valued by the company.
• For example: “I write to apply for the Office Manager position at Acme Investments, Inc. I am an excellent fit for this position, as demonstrated by my extensive background in management and proven success as a corporate administrator.”

• Companies appreciate when job candidates include this information because it lets them know where people are searching for jobs.
• Only include a company contact or friend’s name if you have their permission. This way, they’ll be ready to answer any questions about you and your character later.
• You may write something like: “John Smith recommended that I get in touch with you about the general manager position at EnviroRent,” or “I came across the available position on LinkedIn and believe I am a strong candidate.”

• For instance, if the company needs someone who can lead a team and handle multiple projects at once, note what team projects you’ve led in previous positions and how you improved overall productivity.
• If you have numerical data or stats to back up your accomplishments, include them! This is your time to brag about your achievements and show how you’ve excelled in the workplace.

• Scan the job application for keywords like leadership, communication, management, and detail-oriented. Then, highlight in your letter how you have these characteristics or skills.
• Avoid embellishing any of your qualifications. Remember, an employer can always double-check the facts.
• If you’re not sure what to write, refer to your resume or CV. What have you done that matches the job description best, and how can you elaborate on it?
• For example: “In my previous role, I successfully supported an office of 100 personnel and honed my management and interpersonal skills through customer service and clerical responsibilities.”

• For instance, you could express how the company has impacted you personally and why that’s driven you to apply for the position.
• Although you want to provide details, keep it short. Stick to a 1 to 2-sentence description rather than a full-length story. Your letter should stay under 3 paragraphs.
• Here’s an example: “My passion for teaching began the summer of my sophomore year of high school when I was a camp counselor. I was given the opportunity to teach a class focusing on local plant life, and the campers’ enthusiasm cultivated my love for teaching and conservation.

• For instance, you could write, “I am excited about the possibility of working for you and your company. I would be more than happy to discuss my qualifications and Acme’s future direction in person or via video conference.”
• Keep your call to action brief and open, or provide specific dates you’d be available to meet with the employer.

• For instance, sign off with, “Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you,” or “Thank you for considering me for this position. If you have any further questions or require additional documentation, please don’t hesitate to contact me.” [12] X Research source

• If you’re sending your letter via email, import your signature into the document as an image or .png file.

• Always proofread and ask someone else to read over your application letter before you send it. This way, you can make sure it’s absolutely perfect and error-free. [14] X Trustworthy Source Purdue Online Writing Lab Trusted resource for writing and citation guidelines Go to source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Keep the overall tone of the company or employer in mind while writing your letter. For instance, if you’re applying to be a journalist for a prestigious news website, match their word choice and writing style. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Be sure to customize your application letter for every job you apply to, even if they have the same qualifications. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.ferrum.edu/downloads/careers/cover-letters.pdf
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/job_search_writing/job_search_letters/cover_letters_workshop/formatting_and_organization.html
• ↑ https://icc.ucdavis.edu/materials/cover-letters
• ↑ https://hbr.org/2016/05/learn-to-love-networking
• ↑ https://hbr.org/2014/02/how-to-write-a-cover-letter
• ↑ https://www.astate.edu/dotAsset/54eb42cc-33a3-4237-a46e-3f4aaac79389.pdf
• ↑ https://career.gatech.edu/writing-effective-cover-letter

About This Article

The best way to start an application letter is to mention where you found the job opportunity and how your strengths can benefit the employer. Devote time in the body paragraphs to tell the employer more about your experience and qualifications. Explain why you’re the best candidate and finish by inviting the hiring manager to contact you. For suggestions on how to prepare your letter, and examples of what to write, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How To Write A Job Application Letter (With Examples)

• Best Business Salutations
• Letter of Introduction
• Close a Business Letter
• Job Application Letter
• Business Letter Layout
• To Whom It May Concern
• Letter Of Interest
• Letter Envelope
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• How To Write A Letter

Find a Job You Really Want In

While applying to jobs, you might be asked to provide a job application letter (sometimes referred to as a cover letter) along with your resume. A resume outlines your professional skills and experience, and a job application letter explains why you are an ideal candidate for the position you’re applying to.

You can think of this as a strictly formatted professional letter that gives hiring managers a sense of your individual qualities prior to a job interview.

This article outlines the essential details and formatting for a job application letter. You’ll learn how to write a concise and engaging letter that will increase your chances of being selected for an interview.

Key Takeaways:

A job application letter can also be known as a cover letter. It is a way to introduce how your skills and experience are a good match for the job.

A job application letter should have your contact information, employer contact information, and a salutation,

A job application application letter should have an introductory paragraph, middle paragraphs that explain your qualifications, and a closing paragraph.

Use specific experiences with quantifiable results to show how your skills were successfully put into action.

Make sure to do your research and edit your letter before submitting.

Tips for writing a job application letter

Job application letter format, what’s the difference between a cover letter and a job application letter, dos and don’ts for writing a job application letter.

• Sign Up For More Advice and Jobs

If you’ve ever asked for advice on the job application process, you’ve likely heard the phrase “sell yourself” a million times over. This means that you should highlight your skills and achievements in a way that will pique a hiring manager ’s interest and make them pause over your application.

You might feel overwhelmed in the grand scheme of online applications, application/ cover letters , letters of intent , and interviews. It’s a lot to balance, especially if you have no experience with any of the things listed.

Remember to take everything one step at a time and review some helpful tips for writing a polished and engaging job application letter:

Tailor the application letter to each job. Your letter should address key points in the job description from the listing, as well as how you can apply your knowledge and experience to the position. You want to emphasize why you are the best candidate for this specific job.

Don’t copy information straight from your resume. Your resume is meant to act as a formal record of your professional experience, education, and accomplishments. The job application letter is where you highlight a few particular details from your resume, and use them to demonstrate how your experience can apply to the job.

Follow the business letter format. These letters have very strict formatting rules, to ensure that they appear as professional to hiring managers. A poorly formatted letter could prevent employers from taking your application seriously.

Proofread. Hiring managers will definitely overlook letters riddled with proofreading mistakes. Read your letter several times over to fix any grammar, punctuation, or spelling errors. You could ask someone else to look over it afterwards or run it through any number of online grammar check programs.

Decide on printing and mailing your letter or sending it in an email. An application letter sent through email requires a subject line that details your purpose for writing— consider “[job title], [your name].” The placement of your contact information is also different depending on the medium . In a hard copy, this goes at the top of your letter, as a header. In an email, it goes below your signature.

The following formatting information can be used as a guideline while drafting your own job application letter, with an example for both a printed/mailed letter and a letter sent through email.

Your contact information

Name Address City, State Zip Code Phone Number Email Address

Employer contact information

First paragraph

Middle paragraphs

This section should be about one to three paragraphs, discussing your various qualifications for the job. This is where you really emphasize what you could bring to the company and how you might fit into the work environment. It might be necessary to do some additional research about the company, to lend more specificity to your letter.

Final paragraph

Ending a cover letter might be a challenge, as you try to wrap up all the details about why you’re the most well-qualified employee on the planet. Let that confidence carry over into your concluding paragraph.

Sincerely/Best,

Job application letter example – printed and mailed

Robin Gomez 37 Southwest Avenue Gainesville, FL 12345 365-123-4567 [email protected] October 20, 2020 Ms. Martha Waters Hiring Manager Blue Swamp Publishing 27 Archer Street Gainesville, FL 67890 Dear Ms. Waters, My resume is attached in response to your advertisement for an editorial assistant . The job description aligns with my interest in editing short fiction, and I believe my experience and skills match what you’re looking for. This past year, I interned with the Editing, Design and Production department at Gator University Press. Over the course of two semesters, I interacted with academic texts at various stages before publication. I’m comfortable proofreading and copyediting manuscripts, as well as adding typesetting codes in Microsoft Word. I have also previously worked on the staff of Writers Student Literary Magazine in Jacksonville, FL , as the Fiction and Website Editor, as well as the head of the Proofreading Team. I played a significant role in the publication of six issues of the magazine, across a two year period (including print and online editions). My qualifications beyond this include experience in team-oriented settings and proficiency in creative and academic writing. I would love the opportunity to speak with you about how I can further contribute to Blue Swamp Publishing! Please feel free to contact me on my cell at 365-123-4567 if you have questions or to set up an interview. Sincerely, Robin Gomez

Job application letter example – emailed

Subject Line: Victoria Caruso – Public Relations Assistant Dear Ms. Janet Wang, I was excited when my colleague Rachel Smith told me that you were looking for a public relations assistant with a background in graphic design. She suggested that I reach out to you about the position, since I believe that my experience aligns well with what you are seeking at Trademark Agency. I worked alongside Rachel as a brand ambassador at a small graphic design company for three years, where I excelled in project management, strategy development, and client communication. This past spring, I played a significant role in designing the website for an up-and-coming multicultural women’s organization and publicizing their first few public events. Along with my experience and personal qualities, I prioritize: Expanding company recognition and designing unique brand details Managing media, press, and public relations issues for companies Developing company communication strategies Please see my attached resume for additional details about my career achievements. I hope to learn more about Trademark Agency’s goals for the coming year. You can contact me on my cell at 319-333-3333 or via email at [email protected]. Sincerely, Victoria Caruso 15th Avenue N Iowa City, Iowa 52240 319-333-3333 [email protected]

A cover letter normally is attached with a resume for a specific job opening, whereas a job application letter can be submitted independently. As already stated, a job application letter can also be known as a cover letter. Format wise, there are a lot of similarities.

However, a job application letter can also be more detailed than a cover a letter. Usually a cover letter acts a quick introduction to a resume when a candidate applies for a specific job opening.

Meanwhile, you can submit a job application letter to a company even if there are no job openings. In this case, you would provide more detail about yourself and your qualifications. Due to this, job application letters tend to be a little longer than the average cover letter.

Now that we’ve gone through the basic formatting for a job application letter and a few examples of what one might look like, how can we condense all that information into digestible pieces?

Refer to these lists of “dos” and “don’ts” to help you through your drafting process:

Explain what you can bring to the company. Consider: how is your experience relevant to what the hiring manager is looking for?

Discuss your skills. Pick out a few skills listed in your resume and describe how you have utilized them in the workplace.

Give specific examples to support your experience. Is there a major project you worked on at your last job ? Did you accomplish something significant in your previous position? Including examples of these things in your letter will add new, specific content to your application and make you more interesting.

Edit your letter thoroughly. Read your letter a couple times, pass it off to someone to look over, run it through an online grammar check. Make sure it’s free of any errors.

Don’t focus on what the job can do for you. While it might seem nice to write that a job is your dream job or that you’ve always wanted to work with a company, it can read as vague flattery. Remember, this letter is about your qualifications.

Don’t list your current or previous job description. Your education and work experience certainly have value, but don’t just list your degrees and places you’ve worked at. Explained what you learned from those experiences and how they’ve made you a strong employee.

Don’t paste directly from your resume. A job application letter is meant to add to your value as a candidate, not just reiterate the same information repeatedly. Use your resume as a guide , but expand on especially relevant details.

Don’t submit an unedited letter. Before an employer ever meets you, they see your application and your job application letter. You don’t want grammar errors and misspelled words to make a bad first impression, so make sure to edit your draft multiple times.

Armed with these tips, guidelines, and examples, you’ll be able to draft your job application letter more confidently and send them off to potential employers knowing that you’re one step closer to employment.

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Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.

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Writing the Application Letter

Traditionally, the application letter or cover letter is a formal letter that accompanies your résumé when you apply for a position. Its purpose is to support your résumé, providing more specific details, and to explain in writing why you are a strong candidate for the specific position to which you are applying. It should not simply reiterate your résumé; it’s an opportunity for you to make a case for your candidacy in complete sentences and phrases, which gives the reader a better sense of your “voice.”

As always, it’s helpful to start by first thinking about the audience and purpose for the application letter. What information does your reader need to glean from your letter? At what point in the hiring process will they be reading it?

As you draft the letter, consider what you would want to say if you were sitting across the desk from your reader. It should be written in a formal, professional tone, but you still want it to flow like natural speech—this will make it easier for your reader to absorb the information quickly.

What to Include in the Application Letter

It can be helpful to think about writing the application letter in sections or “blocks.” This provides a basic structure for the letter; once you have an understanding of this foundation, you can customize, update, and personalize the letter for different applications and employers.

Introductory Paragraph

Open the letter with a concise, functional, and personable introduction to you as a job candidate. This is your chance to establish the essential basics of your qualifications and to set the themes and tone for the rest of the letter.

• Name the position you’re interested in (by exact name and number, if available), and where you heard about it
• Clearly state that you are applying for the position—remember that you are requesting (not demanding) that they consider you as a candidate for the position
• Identify your major, year or graduation date, and school (this should be a brief preview of your educational status/area—you will go into more detail in the Education paragraph)
• Create a theme (essentially a thesis statement) for the letter, based on the job requirements and your knowledge of the employer (this may not be possible until you write the other paragraphs, so save it for last) → NOTE: Once you have established the thesis (the key reasons for your qualifications), keep in mind that the remaining paragraphs must specifically “prove” or “show” that you possess these qualifications

Optionally, you might also take the opportunity at the beginning of the letter to express your interest in working for this particular company and/or your passion for and interest in the field—I am particularly interested in this position because… This sets a nice tone and shows that you are engaged and enthusiastic. It is also an opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge about the employer and what they do (developed through your research).

Education & Academics Paragraph(s)

Since you will have already stated your basic educational status (major/year/school) in the introductory paragraph, the purpose of this paragraph is to paint a more detailed picture of you as a student, making progress in your academic program and gaining valuable experiences along the way. Your opportunity in this paragraph is to describe your academic progress in more specific detail, explaining the activities and knowledge you are developing that most matter for this position and employer. Carefully consider what the employer will value most about your educational experiences.

• Emphasize specific skills and knowledge that you are developing
• Describe significant coursework or projects—don’t be afraid to focus in on a particularly compelling example or experience

If you have a lot of project experience or several key experiences that you want to highlight, this information may be written in multiple paragraphs.

This content should NOT be a laundry list of course titles. Instead, describe how your academics have shaped your understanding of the field you are entering and significant skills you are developing, but always tie it back to what the employer is looking for—stay focused on the information your audience needs and what they will care about.

Employment Paragraph (if applicable)

It is important for employers to feel that they are hiring responsible, reliable people who know how to hold down a job. If you do have work experience in this field such as a previous internship, this is a perfect time to discuss that.  If you have previous work experience, even if it’s not related to your field, this is your opportunity to describe the value of that experience—the value for you, but, more importantly, to your reader.

• Describe your previous work experience (show, don’t tell that you’re a good employee)
• Be specific about the company, the time frame, your responsibilities, actions and the outcomes/results
• Focus on relevant and transferable skills developed on the job

Activities Paragraph (if applicable)

Activities and involvement in things outside of your coursework and work experiences such as student organizations, clubs, and volunteer work are a great way to show that you are a well-rounded, motivated person with good time management skills. Personal, human connections are an important part of the job application process, and describing some of these activities and interests can help your reader start to feel a more personal connection.

• Demonstrate personality, values, and transferable skills through sports, volunteer, travel or other professional experiences
• Describe your specific actions and involvement honestly, while still trying to connect to transferable skills and the keywords in the job posting

If the employer has a strong program for charitable giving and involvement in an area that you share an interest, that would be another opportunity to build a connection with them and show that you could embrace the company culture and values.

Concluding Paragraph

As you conclude the letter,  tie everything together, acknowledge the next steps, and end on a positive note.

• Reference your resume (“You will find additional information on my résumé”)
• Request (don’t demand) an interview (“I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with to learn more about the position and discuss my application”)
• Provide contact information in the paragraph (phone number and email address)—don’t put this below your name
• Reiterate interest in the position, the employer—another opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge about the company

A Note About Topic Sentences

As you reinforce the main idea or purpose of the letter (that you have the necessary skills, qualifications, and temperament for the job), make sure you prioritize what your reader needs to know about you and that all of the experiences you describe are meaningful to them. One good way to do that is to focus on how you construct the topic sentences. The first sentence in each paragraph should clearly explain the purpose of the information contained in that paragraph.

Begin each paragraph with a statement that connects your experience to the employer’s requirements and desired qualifications.

Topic Sentence = My experience + Why it matters

Consider how the following examples were revised to focus more on the value of the experience to the employer rather than simply stating the information about the experience.

• Original: During the past three summers, I worked at Ray’s diner in my hometown.
• Revised: Working at Ray’s diner in my hometown for the past three summers has taught me a lot about responsibility and reliability.
• Original: During my freshman year, I was part of an Alternative Energy Vehicle project group.
• Revised: I gained first-hand experience with collaborative problem solving and project management while working on an Alternative Energy Vehicle project during my freshman year.

The revised versions explicitly connect the experience (working at the diner, being on a project team) with the value and lessons learned, making it easier for your reader to understand, even while reading quickly, how this supports your qualifications.

Letter Formatting Considerations

Your application letter should use formal letter formatting. You will find detailed information about the required elements of a letter document here and more information about writing cover letters here (both are from Purdue’s Online Writing Lab).

In today’s job market, where many applications are online, the letter might be delivered in a variety of different formats. For example, it might be a PDF file uploaded to an online application system or if might be simply sent in the body of an email. In any case, consider the following as you decide how to format the letter:

• If you are delivering it as a stand-alone file or an attachment, use a formal letter format and save it as a PDF (unless otherwise instructed).
• If you are sending the application letter content directly in the body of an email, you do NOT typically need to include the sender’s (your) address, the date, or the recipient/inside address. You would begin the email with the greeting.

Adapted from “Preparing Job Application Materials” in A Guide to Technical Communications: Strategies & Applications” by Lynn Hall & Leah Wahlin is licensed under CC BY-NC 4.0

Writing as Critical Inquiry Copyright © by Keri Sanburn Behre, Ph.D. and Kate Comer, Ph.D. is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Application Letter: Definition, Types and How to write it

We are all familiar with writing the application of leave of absence at least once in our lives. If you can’t relate, there are countless other times application letters are written. It can be for a job, asking for permission to host a football competition on the school grounds, asking for a transfer certificate after your dad gets posted somewhere else, etc. Here, I will tell you how you will write a general application letter.

What is an Application Letter?

If you’ve been following, the letter you write when you request for something, ask permission for something or apply for something, is an application letter. It is usually a one-page letter. It can be written for domestic or professional purposes. It can also accompany documents sometimes, like job application letters. So to say, application letters encompass more than cover letters; they can be an inquiry and a request letter too.

Types of Application Letters:

Following this thread, application letters can be classified into 3 broad groups . They include:

• Job Application Letter ( sample )
• Academic Application Letter ( sample )
• Personal Application Letter

Examples of job application letters include:

See cover letters

Examples of academic application letters include:

• Application letter seeking permission
• Scholarship application letter
• Application for leave of absence/in advance
• Application for a seat in the hostel
• Application for a testimonial, etc.

Examples of personal application letters include:

• Loan application letter
• Rental application letter
• Application letter for a deduction of fine
• Application withdrawal letter
• Internship application letter
• Transfer application letter
• Application letter for a travel grant, etc.

Note that these personal letters can be written person-to-person or person-to-business.

Steps on How to Write An Application Letter:

Like any other basic letter writing, the application letter starts with planning. Plan on the content, enquire about the recipient, think through about the details to include, keep things simple and short, and et voilà!

Let’s break things down.

Suppose you are writing an application to your college professor for the retake of your Microeconomics exam. Here’s how you draft your piece:

• Start with the date.
• Include the name of the professor, his post, department, and name of the university. Your professor can be an external or internal faculty. If he is an external faculty, mention this and the name of your university. If not, you still should include it to make things more precise. Add his contact information.
• Follow this up with the date. Proceed to the subject line, here, application for the retake on an exam is the subject.
• In the first paragraph, introduce yourself. Mention your name, batch, and program, followed by the course name. Now state why you are writing, which is to apply for the retake of your Microeconomics exam.
• Next paragraph should mention the reasons for you to skip the exam. Make sure they are valid grounds. If you had been sick, attach prescriptions or documents from the appointment. If you had been away for personal issues, give brief details of the event.
• In the closing paragraph, ask him/her to excuse you on these grounds and to retake your exam and say how it will be beneficial to you.
• Close with your details. Don’t forget to add your contact information like the mailing ID here.

Tips to Remember:

• Take care of the readability and white space in your letter.
• Make sure your pints connect with each other. Don’t include irrelevant information since an application is to be concise by format.
• Take care of grammatical and spelling errors.
• Be sure of the dates you are writing in the letter.

Related Contents

• Appreciation Letter: Definition, Types, and How To Write it
• Proposal Letter : Definition and how to write it

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What Is a Cover Letter?

Understanding cover letters, types of cover letters, how to write a cover letter, tips for writing a cover letter.

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The Bottom Line

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What Is a Cover Letter? Types and How To Write One

A cover letter is a written document commonly submitted with a job application outlining the applicant's credentials and interest in the open position. Since a cover letter is often one of only two documents sent to a potential employer, a well- or poorly-written letter can impact whether the applicant is called for an interview .

Key Takeaways

• A cover letter is commonly submitted with a job application explaining the applicant's credentials and interest in the position.
• A good cover letter complements the resume and explains why the candidate is the ideal person for the job.
• Common cover letter mistakes can sink a job applicant.

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Most job postings are done online and no longer require a physical application. Instead, applicants send companies a copy of their resume along with a cover letter either by email or with a hard copy through the mail. A resume offers a glimpse into the professional and academic experience of a potential employee. The cover letter, on the other hand, acts as an introduction written by the candidate to express their interest in the position and what makes them the best fit for the job.

A good cover letter complements a resume by expanding on items relevant to the job. In essence, it's a sales pitch that describes why the applicant is the best person for the position. Career experts advise job seekers to spend time customizing each cover letter for the particular position, rather than using a generic missive. Although this requires extra effort, it can be very helpful in allowing an applicant to stand out above the competition.

The cover letter provides information to the employer about who the candidate is as a professional and as a person. This includes their areas of interest, professional goals, knowledge, skills they've gained over the years, achievements, passions, and aspirations. The cover letter should be a one-page document that provides a clear and concise idea about why the candidate is the best person for the job . It should also highlight the cultural fit.

While there is no set template for a cover letter, the type of letter that you write will depend on the requirements of each individual company or employer. The information that is included in a cover letter will vary depending on the goals and purpose of your application.

• An application cover letter is the most familiar type of cover letter. This is generally written in response to a vacancy that is posted on a company's website or a job board. In addition to answering any specific questions posted in the job ad, it may also highlight any experience or skills that are suitable for the position.
• A referral cover letter is similar to an application letter, but it includes the name of a colleague or employee who recommended the applicant for the open position. A strong referral can help you stand out against other applicants.
• A prospecting cover letter , also known as a letter of interest, is written by a job seeker and addressed to a company where they would like to work. However, it is not aimed at a specific role or vacancy. Instead, this type of letter inquires about open positions in general and may highlight any special skills that make the writer suitable for the company.

When employers post a job ad that requires a cover letter, they may specify certain requirements for the cover letter to address. For example, they may require applicants to answer certain questions, or to respect a certain word limit. It is important to follow these requirements, as they reflect on the applicant's ability to understand and follow directions.

If the employer does not set any expectations, a typical cover letter should be about a page or less, and may include a formal greeting, contact information, and links to the applicant's portfolio or work. It should highlight any special skills, and explain why you would be a good fit for the position. This is your chance to impress the employer: Even if your resume does not have everything an employer wants, a well-written cover letter can make the applicant stand out from the crowd.

However, it is possible to include too much information. Most employers will simply glance at the majority of their cover letters, and a long-winded essay might end up at the bottom of the pile. A few short paragraphs explaining your skills, and why you chose that specific employer, should be enough to put your best foot forward.

Writing a cover letter doesn't have to be tedious—even though it may seem like it's a chore. Here are a few simple tips you may want to consider when composing your cover letter:

• Personalize your letter for each role. Never use a generic cover letter. This means you have to write a new one for each position. Be sure to include your strengths and skills, and explain why you’re the perfect candidate.
• Include contact information. If the posting doesn't include the hiring manager's name, call the company , or check its website. Including this person's name gives your letter a proper greeting and also shows you have initiative. And don't forget to add your contact information, too. This is important if your resume gets separated from your cover letter.
• Simplify your letter. Communicate clearly and concisely. Using complex words and sentences would most certainly fail to convey your intentions with the company and the person reading the letter probably won't bother with the rest of your application.
• Be specific when needed. Don't rehash your resume, so be sure to quantify your accomplishments. For instance, expand on your marketing experience in your cover letter by saying you brought in 200 additional clients each month and increased revenue to $10,000. This can set you apart from candidates with vague personal details.
• Proofread. After you’ve written the letter, go over it a few times to ensure there are no errors. Then ask someone else to do a once-over and recommend any changes you may need to make.

A simple, focused cover letter without any typos or grammatical errors will get you noticed by potential employers.

A perfect resume can often be sabotaged by a poorly thought-out cover letter or one that is laden with mistakes. Whether you include the letter as per required submission guidelines, or you simply want to emphasize your interest in the job, make sure you avoid making these blunders.

• Names matter. This includes the name of the hiring manager, the company, and yes, even yours. Make sure you have the right names and the correct spelling. And don't forget to change the names if you're using the same cover letter for multiple jobs.
• Restating your resume. Since the cover letter is used to identify your skills and explain how your previous experience is applicable to the desired position, don't restate the stuff on your resume. Remember, the cover letter should complement your resume, not just summarize it.
• Keep your letter tight. Recruiters often go through hundreds of applications and don't have time to read through a three-page missive. The absolute maximum length for a cover letter should be one page, with a few concise paragraphs.
• Omit unnecessary details. Stay on topic. There's no need to mention your graphic-design skills if you're applying for an accounting position. It's a good idea to leave out personal things like your IQ, recreational accomplishments, interests, and hobbies. That is unless they relate to the job or company.
• Avoid sounding arrogant. Ensure your cover letter does not make you appear arrogant . While the cover letter is about you and your accomplishments, find a way of saying "I'm the best" without actually saying it. Avoid overusing words like "I," "me," or "my."
• Remember that spelling counts. Typos and grammatical errors can show you didn't bother to proofread your own letter. And make sure to be consistent—don't convey a dash with "--" in one place and "—" in another.
• Design matters : with the proliferation of publishing, design trends, and software, candidates have become creative in making their cover letter stand out from a design perspective. Make sure your cover letter projects your personality in terms of design while remaining professional. That is personal signature and branding.

How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?

According to Indeed , a leading job-seeking site, a typical cover letter should be about three or four paragraphs long and highlight any special experience or achievements that make the applicant exceptionally well-suited to the position.

How Do You Start a Cover Letter?

A cover letter should start with a formal greeting, preferably addressed to the hiring manager. If you do not know who will be reading your cover letter, a generic "to whom it may concern" is an acceptable, albeit old-fashioned, way to address a cover letter. It is also acceptable to address the letter to a title, such as "Dear Hiring Manager," or "Dear Talent Acquisition Team."

What Should a Cover Letter Contain?

An effective cover letter should highlight the applicant's skills, experience, and any achievements that make them a good fit for their prospective employer. It is also a good chance to mention anything that is not included in the resume: For example, if an applicant is drawn to a certain employer because they love a certain product, the cover letter is a great place to mention it. Make sure your cover letter also includes your name and contact information.

In a competitive jobs market, an effective cover letter is one way to make a job application stand out. This is a chance for an applicant to demonstrate why they think they would be a good fit. However, a poorly-written or meandering cover letter can hurt an application more than it helps.

Harvard Extension School. " Resources and Cover Letters: An Extension School Resource ," Pages 3 and 5.

Harvard Extension School. " Resources and Cover Letters: An Extension School Resource ," Page 5.

Jobscan. " Cover Letter Formats ."

Indeed. " What Is a Cover Letter? "

Indeed. " How to Address a Cover Letter (With Examples). "

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Application Letter

What is an application letter.

Are you looking for a new job? You may need to write a job application letter to get the best position for you. It is a letter written to inform the employer of your interest in the open position at the organization. Many employers prefer such application letters as they provide more details of the applicant’s personality than would be discernible with the usual practice of outlining your professional experience with a CV and cover letter.

An application letter is merely another name for a cover letter for a job application .  As we discussed earlier the official business application letter often includes a job application and/or resume. This is then sent to a prospective employer. Although application letters are generally considered optional components of applying for a job, if you write one, you can focus on writing one as it makes your chances of getting employment rates higher. Most of the employees are singling out those who actually take the time to write an appointment letter as their top picks, and get the job confirmation letter for the same.

To clarify, a cover letter meaning and an application letter definition are sometimes used interchangeably, but a cover letter typically accompanies a resume, while an application letter is a standalone document. Define application letter, it is a written communication that serves as an introduction to an employer, stating one’s interest in a job advertisement opening and highlighting relevant skills and experiences.

The definition of a cover letter is a document that accompanies a job application and provides a brief introduction of the applicant, explains why the applicant is interested in the position and highlights relevant skills and experiences. Job letter and applications can help a candidate stand out and showcase their qualifications for the job. In contrast, poorly written cover letters, which contains grammatical and spelling errors, may harm a candidate’s chances of being hired.

If you want more letters as an HR or employer then on the glossary page of UBS, you can also find the job offer letter, inter-department transfer letter, &many other letters. 

For an example of an application letter:

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am excited to submit my job letter and application for the position advertised in your job posting. As part of my application, I have included a well-written cover letter, which I believe can provide you with more information about my qualifications for the position. 

I am confident that my well-written cover letter and my application letter demonstrate my qualifications for the position, and I would be grateful for the opportunity to further discuss my application with you. Thank you for considering my application.

[Your Name]

Also, See: Appointment letter

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Meaning of letter of application in English

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application

Definition of application

Examples of application in a sentence.

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'application.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Middle English applicacioun, borrowed from Middle French & Medieval Latin; Middle French applicacion, borrowed from Medieval Latin applicātiōn-, applicātiō "bringing into contact, coming to shore, bringing into use for a particular purpose," going back to Latin, "act of attaching or joining," from applicāre "to bring into contact (with), situate near, bring to bear (on)" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action — more at apply

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing application

• application program interface

application programming interface

• application service provider
• application - specific integrated circuit

Dictionary Entries Near application

Cite this entry.

“Application.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/application. Accessed 24 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of application, medical definition, medical definition of application, legal definition, legal definition of application, more from merriam-webster on application.

Nglish: Translation of application for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of application for Arabic Speakers

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More From Forbes

2 major student loan forgiveness application deadlines are just days away.

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WASHINGTON, DC June 30, 2023: United States Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona during US ... [+] President Joe Biden remarks on the student loan forgiveness in the Roosevelt Room of the White House on Friday, June 30, 2023. (Photo by Demetrius Freeman/The Washington Post via Getty Images)

Two highly significant student loan forgiveness application deadlines are rapidly approaching. Some borrowers may have to take certain steps by April 30th in order to qualify for any student loan relief, or at least minimize risks of significant delays.

So far, the Biden administration has approved more than $150 billion in student loan cancellation through a variety of separate initiatives, including temporary programs and waivers. Relief under one of those waivers, called the IDR Account Adjustment, already represents more than a third of that total, making it one of the most significant of President Biden’s student loan forgiveness initiatives. But the account adjustment is set to end this summer, and certain borrowers may need to apply to consolidate their loans before April 30th in order to benefit.

Meanwhile, the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program — which also represents a significant portion of the $150 billion in debt relief approved by the Biden administration — faces a major upcoming deadline on the same date. PSLF is about to undergo an extended processing suspension , during which no PSLF applications will be reviewed. Advocates are encouraging borrowers to submit PSLF forms and take other important steps prior to April 30th.

Here are the details.

April 30th Is Key Student Loan Forgiveness Application Deadline For IDR Account Adjustment

The IDR Account Adjustment is a temporary Biden administration program designed to “fix” longstanding problems with income-driven repayment plans by temporarily waiving certain requirements.

IDR can allow borrowers to get student loan forgiveness after 20 or 25 years in repayment. But administrative problems, confusing rules, forbearance-steering practices, and poor oversight led to many issues that have served as a barrier to relief. The account adjustment is designed to address this by crediting borrowers with time toward their IDR loan forgiveness term for periods that may not have previously counted, such as payments made on other repayment plans, as well as certain periods of deferment and forbearance.The account adjustment has already been a resounding success, with more $49 billion in loan forgiveness approved for nearly a million borrowers.

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But the initiative is temporary, and it is winding down this summer. While borrowers with Direct loans and other Education Department-owned federal student loans can benefit from the adjustment automatically, those who have other types of federal loans must apply to consolidate them through the Direct loan program by April 30th.

“If you have commercially held FFEL or any Perkins or HEAL loans, we encourage you to consolidate them by April 30, 2024, to benefit from the payment count adjustment,” according to the department. While the consolidation process can take around 60 days, the application itself must be submitted prior to the deadline for the borrower to receive the benefits associated with the IDR Account Adjustment.

Consolidating loans can also allow borrowers to maximize IDR credit under the account adjustment, because the department says it will credit the new consolidation loan with the highest amount of loan forgiveness “time” based on the underlying loan that has the longest repayment history. Consolidation may also be necessary for non-Direct loan borrowers to receive PSLF credit (which is possible under the adjustment, as well).

“Submitting a consolidation application alone does not guarantee any benefits under the payment count adjustment,” notes the department. “In general, it takes at least 60 days to process a Direct Consolidation Loan application and to disburse the new loan. This means that if you want to consolidate your loan(s) in order to get the benefit of the adjustment, you should submit a loan consolidation application by April 30, 2024.”

April 30th Is Also Key Student Loan Forgiveness Date For PSLF

Separately from the IDR Account Adjustment, the PSLF program is about to undergo a lengthy processing pause. Starting on May 1, no student loan forgiveness applications or employment certifications associated with PSLF will be reviewed or processed until at least July, as the department transitions the PSLF servicing interface from MOHELA to StudentAid.gov

Borrowers may want to submit a PSLF application — either to request loan forgiveness, or to simply update their PSLF qualifying payment count — by April 30th so that it is in the system before the pause begins. While the forms will be highly unlikely to get reviewed or processed prior to August, it could allow for faster processing once the suspension ends, given the anticipated backlog and associated delays that will likely occur once the program gets back up and running again.

“We anticipate substantial PSLF processing delays after the pause ends,” said the National Consumer Law Center in a new blog post covering the suspension. “Borrowers should be prepared for significant delays in processing Employment Certification Forms (ECF), updating PSLF payment counts, and processing loan forgiveness applications for eligible borrowers.”

In addition, borrowers may want to download their current PSLF records from MOHELA before the suspension goes into effect, because they will lose access to their current PSLF information starting on May 1. This includes qualifying employment periods, PSLF payment counts, and month-by-month breakdowns of eligible and ineligible payments.

“It is very likely that some borrowers’ account information, including qualifying payment counts, may be inaccurately reported on studentaid.gov or may not be reported at all for some time after the processing pause,” warned NCLC in the blog post. “We strongly advise borrowers to download all PSLF payment count and tracking information from MOHELA by April 30th, as that information may not be available or accessible on MOHELA’s website during and after the processing pause.”

Additional Key Student Loan Forgiveness Deadline On May 17th

Meanwhile, earlier this week the Biden administration released draft regulations governing a brand new student loan forgiveness plan. This program, if enacted, could provide debt relief to 25 million borrowers through multiple avenues.

With the draft rules formally published, the public now has a 30-day period to submit comments , with a deadline of May 17th. The Education Department “will carefully consider comments received and aims to finalize these rules in time to start delivering relief,” which the administration anticipates happening by the fall, according to a department statement earlier this week.

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Why is everyone telling you to look between letters on your keyboard? Latest meme explained

'look between h and l on your keyboard,' users are prompted, for instance. others are told to look between 'y' and 'i' to find out who is wanted the most..

Twitter, now known as X, is a big meme generator.

You are bound to see a picture, video, or a reference that completely goes over your head while you scroll. That's kind of the norm, and the latest meme is no exception.

Users across social media platforms, mainly X but also on TikTok, have been urged to look between certain letters on their keyboard in an attempt to decipher a punchline. "Look between H and L on your keyboard," users are prompted, for instance. The letters between "H" and "L" are "JK," as in, "just kidding."

It's a trend that emerged in the last few days, with some users reporting that they are already over it while others continue to engage with the "frustrating" content.

Most everyone has gotten in the fun, creating their own unique version based on their "brand." That includes the New England Patriots.

Some social media users are sick of the trend, calling it 'useless'

Not everyone has been happy to participate in the meme, with some users saying the trend makes "no sense."

A look at some of the best, worst 'between the keyboard' memes online

Here's a look at the meme in action, which encompasses a wide range of jokes across topics, including relationships, football and pop culture.

Meme emerged before this year

This isn't the first-time users have been tasked with looking between certain letters on the keyboard to try and understand the joke, with Business Insider reporting that the trend first emerged on 4chan in May 2021.

An X user referenced that 4chan post, writing on Friday that no one can will ever beat the original, attaching a photo of Yui Hirasawa, a main character in a popular anime series, with a caption that encourages users to "look between t and o on your'e key bored" which produces the letters that make up the character's first name.

Wordle #1040: Today's Wordle Answer and Clues (Wednesday, April 24, 2024)

Quick links, basic clues to today's wordle (#1040), a big clue for today's wordle puzzle, today's wordle answer (april 24, 2024), our top wordle tips (to beat it every day).

Wordle is a daily puzzle from the New York Times. If you want some extra help to solve today's Wordle, we have the answer to Wordle #1040, plus some extra clues.

SPOILERS AHEAD (CLUES)

If you just want the answer to the Wordle puzzle for April 24, 2024, scroll down past the clues and the next spoiler warning. Otherwise, here are a set of clues to help you solve today's Wordle on your own...

How Many Vowels and Consonants Does Today's Wordle Have?

Today's Wordle contains three consonants and two vowels.

Do Any Letters Appear Twice in Today's Wordle?

No, no letters appear twice, with all five unique within the word.

What Is the First Letter of Today's Wordle?

The first letter to today's Wordle is O.

What Is the Last Letter of Today's Wordle?

The last letter to today's Wordle is T.

The big clue for today's Wordle is, "The opposite of hidden and not on show".

SPOILERS AHEAD (ANSWER)

If you still haven't beaten today's Wordle even with the clues provided above, the answer is below...

The answer to today's Wordle is " OVERT ".

What Does Today's Wordle Word Mean?

The word "Overt" is an adjective meaning open to view and completely on show. It's the opposite of hiding something, whether intentionally or not. Synonyms include "undisguised," "obvious," and "apparent". You can use "Overt" in a sentence as, "The film is an overt satire on modern politics," or, as an adverb, "He avoided overtly criticizing his opponent in the debate".

What's the Origin of Today's Wordle Word?

According to the Online Etymology Dictionary , the word "Overt" originated in the early 14th century. Its original meaning was open or unfastened, as in a book or piece of clothing. While this meaning is now obsolete, open is still a synonym of sorts. "Overt" comes from the Latin "aperire" meaning to open or uncover, via the Old French word "overt," which is "ouvert" in Modern French.

• Choose a good starting word. There are plenty to choose from, so pick one from our list of the best Wordle starting words .
• Try to eliminate all five vowels early. As there are only a handful of vowels, it's best to use them all within the first 2-3 guesses.
• Use popular letters early. As well as the vowels, letters such as T, S, N, R, H, C, D, and L appear most commonly in English words.
• Take your time over your guesses. Wordle isn't timed, so there's no rush to complete it. You can even guess on paper first.
• Remember that letters can appear twice (and often do). Keep this in mind when guessing, as forgetting it can lead you to mess up.

Now that you have completed today's Wordle puzzle (with a little help from your friends at MUO), you should check out some of the other free games from the New York Times.

Connections is a fun game that challenges you to find the associations between 16 words, splitting them up into four groups of four. To help combat the challenging nature of the game, check out our tips and tricks to help you beat Connections .

There's also Strands, the newest addition to the New York Times' burgeoning list of games. Just like Connections, it's extremely challenging, but in a unique string-the-letters-together way. We recommend you check out our best tips for beating Strands to give yourself a leg up on the daily challenge.

Or, if you're a Wordle purist and want more of the same, we recommend trying these awesome Wordle alternatives .