Guidelines for Writing Job Application Letters

1. Guidelines for Writing Job Application Letters

2. Guidelines for Writing Job Application Letters • Personalize your letter for that company. • Know the job ad and respond specifically to what is in it. • Avoid an excessive use of the first-person pronoun. • Focus on how your skill sets match what the company is looking for.

3. Guidelines for Writing Job Application Letters (cont.) • Focus on the company—the “you” in your letter. • Never have someone else write your letter. • Keep your letter to one page but sell yourself. • Be specific. • Refer to your resume and your portfolio.

4. Guidelines for Writing Job Application Letters (cont.) • Use high-quality-stationery and envelopes. • Address a specific person in your letter and spell that person’s name correctly. • Ask for the interview. Don’t be timid. • Edit and proofread! Your letter and resume should be error-free.

5. Types of Follow-up Letters • Confirming an interview • Thank you after the interview • Feedback on status of application • Requesting additional time to make a decision • Accepting an offer • Turning down an offer

6. Confirming an Interview • Thank you for the interview and add something positive about your desire to work for the company. • Confirm time and place of interview. If you plan to bring something (i.e., portfolio), note that here. • Re-confirm your interest in the company and thank them again.

7. Thank You After the Interview • Say thank you !! • Note something positive about the interview. • Sound positive and upbeat, noting that you are looking forward to the decision.

8. Feedback on Status of Application • Restate interest in position. • Provide date of prior application letter. • Request status of application. • Highlight major qualifications. • Goodwill—look forward to their response.

9. Requesting Additional Time • Begin with a strong statement of interest in the company. • Provide reasons for requesting time extension. State tactfully. Be specific. • Note willingness to compromise and express continued interest in position and company.

10. Accepting an Offer • Begin with good news and confirm specifics of offer. • Provide details about starting date and any forms that need to be completed. • Restate good news and a look to the future.

11. Declining an Offer • Use the indirect approach—a buffer or positive note. • Tactfully express reasons for turning down the position. • Express good will and say something positive about the company.