application letter for job it

How to Write an Application Letter (Sample Included!)

Whether you’re applying for a job , internship , scholarship, or volunteer position, a well-crafted application letter can help you stand out. It's your chance to introduce yourself and make a strong first impression that sets you apart from the competition.

But how do you write an application letter that’s effective? Below, we’ll explain when to use this method of introduction and give you practical tips on writing one that gets results. Plus, we've included a sample application letter and a template to help you create the perfect document for any opportunity.

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What is an application letter?

An application letter is a document sent with your resume to provide additional information on your skills and experience. It's a crucial part of an application for work as it introduces you to potential employers and highlights your qualifications.

While some companies request it at the beginning of the application process, others might ask for it later, or not at all—but it's always a valuable addition.

Unlike a resume, which outlines your work history, a written application allows you to elaborate on your achievements and how they relate to the job you are applying for. It is a much more specific way to introduce yourself and explain why you would be a good fit for the job.

How is an application letter different from a cover letter?

Some people use the terms “application letter” and “cover letter” interchangeably, but there are subtle differences between the two.

An application letter serves as your formal introduction to a potential employer. It highlights your interest in the role, your qualifications, and why you're a good fit for the position. It's a standalone document that provides a comprehensive overview of your skills and experiences.

On the other hand, a cover letter is usually more concise than an application letter and serves as a complementary document to your resume, providing additional context to your job application. It elaborates on specific points from your resume and explains how your background aligns with the job requirements.

Also, job application letters follow a more formal structure, often resembling a traditional business letter. They include your contact information, the date, and the employer’s contact information at the top. An application letter is usually addressed to a specific individual, such as the hiring manager or recruiter. While cover letters also have a professional tone, they can be less formal in structure.

Finally, the application letter is used primarily for job applications, internship applications, scholarship applications, and volunteer positions. In contrast, the cover letter is specifically used to accompany a resume during job applications.

When do you need to send an application letter?

Application letters are typically required when applying for jobs. However, there are other scenarios where you might need one:

• Scholarship applications: When applying for scholarships, this kind of letter can help you stand out by showcasing your academic achievements and career goals .
• Volunteer positions: Some volunteer organizations require an application letter to understand your motivations and skills relevant to the position.
• Internship applications: Internships often require this document to understand your interest in the role and what you hope to gain from the experience.
• Networking purposes: Sending one when reaching out to potential mentors or industry professionals can help you establish a connection and explain your career aspirations.

7 tips on how to write a job application letter

Writing an effective application letter involves more than just summarizing your resume. Here are seven tips to write yours:

1. Research the company—at least do a quick Google search!

Before you start writing, research the company to understand its culture, values, and needs. Tailor your letter to align with the company’s mission and the job description. There is nothing better for an HR professional than feeling that you don’t just want any job; you want to work with them for specific reasons, such as X and Y.

“Address the letter to the hiring manager by name if possible,” says Mike Chappell, CEO of FormsPal , who has more than a decade of experience reviewing application letters. “This shows that you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in the company.”

2. Use a professional format and design

Your application letter should follow a formal letter of application format. Use a standard font like Times New Roman or Arial, and keep the font size between 10 and 12 points. Include your contact information, the date, and the employer’s contact information at the top of the letter.

There are many layouts online that you can use. Find one that represents your style and complements your resume.

3. Make it engaging from the start with a strong opening

Your opening paragraph should grab the reader’s attention. Mention the position you're applying for and where you found the job listing. If you were referred by someone, include their name. Briefly introduce yourself and explain why you’re interested in the role.

4. Highlight your qualifications—what you can’t fully convey in your resume

In the body of your applicant letter, highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements. “Use specific examples to showcase your accomplishments and how they relate to the job you’re applying for,” Chappell says. “ Quantifiable results can make a strong impact.”

Avoid repeating information from your resume; instead, expand on your most relevant experiences.

5. Show enthusiasm and genuine interest

Employers want to hire candidates who are enthusiastic about the role and the company. Show your excitement for the opportunity. Explain why you are specifically interested in this job and how it aligns with your career goals.

6. Keep it concise

While it’s important to provide enough detail, your application letter should be concise. Aim for one page, with three to four paragraphs. Be clear and to the point, avoiding unnecessary fluff.

7. Proofread carefully

Typos and grammatical errors can leave a negative impression on employers. Carefully proofread your letter before sending it. Consider asking another person to review it as well.

Letter of application sample

Here's a super complete example of application letter to help you get started:

August 1, 2024

Ms. Jane Doe

Hiring Manager

Innovative Solutions Inc.

456 Maple Avenue

Springfield, IL 62705

Dear Ms. Doe,

I am writing to express my interest in the Marketing Manager position at Innovative Solutions Inc., as advertised on your company’s careers page. With more than five years of experience in marketing and a proven track record of successful campaigns, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and drive impactful marketing strategies.

In my previous role as a Senior Marketing Specialist at Creative Solutions LLC, I led a team in developing and executing a comprehensive marketing strategy that resulted in a 30% increase in brand awareness and a 25% boost in lead generation. My responsibilities included overseeing digital marketing campaigns, analyzing market trends, and coordinating with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment with overall business goals. This experience has honed my skills in strategic planning, data analysis, and team leadership.

I am particularly impressed by Innovative Solutions Inc.’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to deliver innovative marketing solutions. Your recent campaign, which utilized artificial intelligence to optimize ad targeting, is a testament to your forward-thinking approach. I am eager to bring my expertise in digital marketing and campaign management to your team and contribute to similar groundbreaking projects.

My strong analytical skills, combined with my ability to lead and inspire a team, make me a great fit for this role. I am confident that my background and enthusiasm for innovative marketing strategies align well with the needs of Innovative Solutions Inc.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experiences can contribute to the continued success of Innovative Solutions Inc.

123 Elm Street

Springfield, IL 62704

[email protected]

(555) 123-4567

Template for an application letter

You can also use the following application format to structure your application letter for a job:

[Recipient’s name]

[Company’s name]

[Company’s address]

[City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear [Recipient’s name],

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job title] position at [Company name] as advertised on [Where you found the job listing]. With my background in [Field or industry] and a passion for [Specific aspect of the job or industry], I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team.

In my previous role at [Previous company], I developed [Specific skills or achievements]. I successfully [Describe a project or responsibility], which resulted in [Quantifiable result or achievement]. This experience has equipped me with [Relevant skills] that I am eager to bring to [Company name].

I am particularly impressed by [Company name]’s commitment to [Specific company initiative or value], and I am enthusiastic about the prospect of working with a team that values [Related value or skill]. I am confident that my skills and experiences align well with the requirements of the [Job title] position.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and enthusiasm can contribute to the success of [Company Name].

[Your Name]

[Your address]

[Your email address]

[Your phone number]

Common mistakes to avoid

When writing a letter of application for employment, be aware of these common mistakes:

• Being too generic: Focus your letter on the specific job and company, and mention detailed information about them. Don’t default to a one-size-fits-all approach or AI-written document. “It is generally best to avoid using generative AI to write your application letters for you,” says Edward Tian, CEO of AI detector GPTZero . “Only you can write about those specific aspects of your identity and experiences in such a personal way.”
• Focusing too much on yourself: While it’s important to highlight your qualifications, make sure to explain how you can benefit the company. “You can talk about your career goals, college classes that piqued your interest in the type of job you're applying to—just make sure that they tie into why they make you uniquely qualified or well-positioned for the job,” Tian says.
• Including irrelevant information: Avoid discussing unrelated jobs or hobbies, for example.
• Using a casual tone: Maintain a professional tone throughout your letter. Avoid slang or overly casual language.

Need a bit more guidance in your job search? Read this next: How to Apply for a Job Online: 10 Tips to Stand Out and Land an Interview

IT Cover Letter Example (w/ Templates & Tips for 2024)

You’re one of the people that keep the digital world running smoothly.

As an experienced troubleshooter, you’re no stranger to technology.

But when it comes to writing your cover letter, you start lagging.

You've got all that technical know-how down to a science but describing it in a cover letter can leave you scratching your head.

We've got your back!

In this article, we're about to demystify the IT cover letter game for you.

Here's what we’re going to cover:

• What a Job-Winning IT Cover Letter Looks Like
• 5 Steps to Writing a Great IT Cover Letter

3 Essential IT Cover Letter Tips

Let’s dive in!

IT Cover Letter Example

5 Steps for the Perfect IT Cover Letter

Now that you've glimpsed what makes a job-winning IT cover letter, it's your turn to write an IT cover letter that shines .

We've got your back with these easy-to-follow steps:

#1. Put Contact Information in the Header

Start preparing your cover letter by creating a header where you can put your contact information, just like you would on your resume .

Here's what to include:

• Full Name. Ensure your first and last names take center stage at the top of the page.
• Professional Job Title. Match your job title on the cover letter with the specific position you're applying for. This clarity helps the hiring manager streamline reviewing your application process since they sift through dozens of applications for different roles.
• Email Address. Select a professional and straightforward email address. Ditch the quirky addresses from your younger days. (For example, k [email protected] won't cut it, but [email protected] is perfectly suitable.)
• Phone Number. Verify that your phone number is written down accurately so the hiring manager can easily reach you. If you're applying for an international role, you can include the dialing code before your phone number.
• Location. Typically, specifying your city and state/country is enough. However, if you're looking for remote work or relocation, make that clear in your resume and cover letter.
• Relevant Links (optional). Feel free to add links to relevant websites or social media profiles, such as your LinkedIn or GitHub.

With your contact details in place, it's time to focus on the hiring manager's contact information :

• Company Name. Always add the name of the company you're applying to.
• Hiring Manager's Name. If possible, identify the name of the hiring manager for the department you're interested in.
• Hiring Manager's Title. If you find the hiring manager's name and see they're the head of the department, use their official title instead of simply "Hiring Manager."
• Location. The company’s location, such as city, state, or country, is crucial. This goes double for organizations that operate globally. Optionally, you can even include the exact street address if they have more than one location in the same city.
• Email Address (optional). If available, include the hiring manager's email address.
• Date of Writing (optional). To add a professional touch, you can include the date you wrote your cover letter.

#2. Address the Hiring Manager

Once you've got the contact details in order, it's time to make it personal by addressing the hiring manager in your cover letter .

So steer clear of the generic "To Whom It May Concern."

Addressing the hiring manager directly can leave a much stronger first impression if you do it right.

Start with some research. Dive into the job ad, explore the company's website, or take a peek at their LinkedIn profile to discover who's leading the department you're applying for. Find their name and email address if possible.

Now, let's talk about formality. We always suggest using "Ms." or "Mr." followed by their last name. But if you're uncertain about their gender or marital status and don’t want to risk messing this up, using their full name works just as well. For example:

• Dear Ms. Smith
• Dear Sarah Smith

In those instances where you can't unearth details about the hiring manager or the head of the IT department, you can still address your letter thoughtfully:

• Dear IT Department
• Dear IT Hiring Team
• Dear Human Resources Team
• Dear Head of IT

#3. Write an Eye-Catching Opening Statement

Hiring managers typically take a few seconds to skim over an applicant's document before deciding whether to read further.

So, making a strong first impression at first glance is crucial to a successful IT cover letter. This is where your cover letter’s opening paragraph comes in.

Your IT cover letter should start by introducing why you’re writing and expressing your genuine interest in the position. Conveying your enthusiasm for the industry or the specific job can pique the hiring manager's curiosity.

Researching the company can pay off here, too. The more insights you have about the employer, the better you can emphasize your alignment with their company culture and mission statement. This shows that your application isn't just a random submission; you are genuinely interested in this specific role.

Depending on your experience level, you can also start your IT cover letter by mentioning a significant achievement or skill that makes you an ideal fit for the position. Just remember to keep this paragraph brief. Your goal here is to engage the hiring manager's interest and encourage them to explore your IT cover letter in more depth.

#4. Use the Cover Letter Body for the Details

At the core of your IT cover letter is the opportunity to show the hiring manager what truly distinguishes you as a qualified candidate.

But don’t just repeat what it says on your IT resume . Instead, use this space to really tie in your professional expertise with what the employer is looking for.

You want to persuade the hiring manager that you’re the best choice among hundreds of applicants with similar skills and experience. So, your best bet is to highlight your most relevant achievements by referencing the job ad.

Tailoring your IT cover letter to align with the job requirements is your cheat code. Pay attention to what skills and experience the job description is looking for in its candidates, and jot down the most important ones you have under your belt.

For example, if you're eyeing an IT role in a company that specializes in cloud storage, highlight your proficiency in cloud storage architectures, data migration strategies, or your familiarity with leading cloud providers like AWS or Azure.

Showing your familiarity with the company, its business model, or its industry can be a huge plus, too. If you’ve used the company's products or services, don't hesitate to mention it in your cover letter. This shows your alignment with their mission and possibly their work culture.

Lastly, make sure your IT cover letter is filled with enthusiasm. Convey your genuine excitement for the role and how confident you are that you can contribute to their success.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out these cover letter examples ! 

#5. Wrap It Up and Sign It

Getting the end of your IT cover letter right is like the final line of code that makes your application run smoothly.

You want to conclude your cover letter in a way that leaves the hiring manager confident that you’re a great candidate for the role. Start by adding a brief summary of the skills that make you stand out from the rest and how you’re confident you can contribute to the company.

Then it’s time to add a compelling call to action. Just encourage the hiring manager to take the next step, such as calling you for an interview or discussing your application further. This proactive approach can leave a memorable mark and enhance your chances of securing an interview.

Finally, don’t forget to sign your IT cover letter . Choose an appropriate signature line followed by your full name. Here's an example:

Please don't hesitate to reach out to me via the provided email or phone number to arrange an interview. I eagerly await the opportunity to delve deeper into my application at your earliest convenience.

Warm regards,

John Draper

If you feel that "Warm regards" is a bit overused, consider these alternative sign-off options:

• Kind regards,
• Respectfully,
• Thank you for considering my application,

You've got the basics covered.

Now, let's take your IT cover letter to the next level with these top tips .

#1. Match Your Resume

Design can’t be underestimated when you’re applying for a job in IT.

It shows forward thinking, innovation, and consistency. To give hiring managers a great first impression from the start, make your cover letter as consistent with your resume as possible.

Your cover letter’s layout should align well with your resume; otherwise, you might come off as disorganized.

Just keep the information on the page aligned neatly, and make sure you’re using consistent font styles and sizes throughout. Carefully set the page margins and line spacing, and whatever you do, don’t let your cover letter extend to a second page .

Or Use A Cover Letter Template Instead

Feeling overwhelmed?

Crafting a cover letter from scratch can be a daunting task, and we get it. That's where our cover letter templates come to the rescue. Use them along with our free resume templates and create a matching application in minutes!

We've collaborated with hiring experts worldwide to create templates that check all the boxes when it comes to industry requirements and visual appeal. Try them now for a stress-free application process!

#2. Mention Skills and Keywords

Your IT cover letter should immediately show hiring managers that you’ve got exactly what they’re looking for in a candidate.

The best way to show them you’re the right person is by weaving in keywords from the job ad throughout your cover letter. And since hiring managers have to comb through hundreds of applications for every job position, this approach makes their job a lot easier, too.

Of course, this doesn’t mean you should just add random words you recognize from the job advertisement. You want to build a narrative that shows you have the right expertise. Focus on the most important skills from the job ad that match the ones you already have, and explain how those skills helped you excel at your job.

#3. Add Any Relevant Links

Don’t underestimate the power of a well-placed link on your IT cover letter.

Just like your resume should include any relevant links that can back up your computer skills , so should your cover letter. If the hiring manager reads something in your cover letter about your previous projects or employers, make it convenient for them.

By adding links to your LinkedIn and GitHub in your cover letter, hiring managers don’t have to circle back to your resume to see what they need. Plus, having a ready hyperlink to your LinkedIn profile could encourage the hiring manager to directly reach out to you through that platform if your IT cover letter impressed them. 

Key Takeaways

And you’re all set for that IT cover letter!

We hope you feel more confident after reading our guide and that you go out there and land that IT job you’ve been after.

But before we part ways, let’s recap some key points from our article:

• Start your IT cover letter by including all the necessary contact information. This means making sure your own contact details are accurate and hunting down the hiring manager so you can address them appropriately in your letter.
• The body of your IT cover letter should elaborate on relevant accomplishments and address keywords from the job ad. Be as specific as possible about how the skills they’re looking for in a candidate have helped you excel in your work.
• Make your cover letter as similar to your resume as possible, and keep the length under one page. Use our online resume builder and cover letter templates to save time.
•  Don’t forget to add an appropriate closing line to your cover letter. It might seem like an insignificant detail, but forgetting it can look sloppy and ruin all your hard work so far.

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• Mar 26, 2024
• 11 min read

How to Write a Job Application Letter (Tips and Examples)

Your guide to getting your foot in the door.

Joanna Zambas

Content Manager and Career Expert

Reviewed by Chris Leitch

Do you have your heart set on a specific company but have never seen them post a single vacancy? And are you on the verge of giving up completely, and convinced you’re going to be jobless and broke for the rest of your life?

Well, don’t crumple your  perfectly written résumé  in a ball of paper just yet — there’s still hope for you!

All you need to do is write an awesome job application letter.

Application letters are a great way to get your foot in the door of a company that hasn’t advertised a position or when you’re applying for an academic program or an  internship .

So, what are you waiting for?

Read on to find out how to write a great job application letter (and land that  dream job  of yours in the process)!

What is a job application letter/email?

Whereas cover letters are used when applying for a specific vacancy, and include details which are complementary to what’s on the applicant’s résumé, application letters are submitted when there is no job opening, and they tend to be more detailed.

Unlike cover letters, which usually span about one page, application letters can be twice as long.

How should you structure your letter?

The structure and formatting of your application letter is just as important as the words you use to sell your skills and enthusiasm for the job. The pointers below will help you deliver your message in a professional and effective way.

Sender’s address

Begin your letter with your address listed in the left-hand corner of the page. In the US, it’s acceptable to list your address in the right-hand corner. (Skip this step if you’re going to send your application via email.)

If you’re applying via email, create an email address for professional use if you haven’t already. This should include your first and last names or initials — no nicknames or years of birth! Two appropriate examples are [email protected] and [email protected] .

As with any official letter, include the date of your letter below your address.

Subject line

The  subject of your email  should make the manager want to read more and not automatically press the “Delete” button. It could be something like: “Social Media Expert with over 5 Years of Experience”.

Inside address

The company’s address should appear a few lines below your address and the date. Skip this if you’re sending an email.

As with any formal letter, you need to open with the correct formal salutation (such as “Dear Mr [surname]” or “Dear Ms [surname]”).

It’s also best to find out who the head of the department is, and address your letter directly to them to show that you’ve taken the time to really do your research. If you begin with “Dear Hiring Manager”, for example, you’re potentially destroying your chances of getting the job you’re applying for.

Opening paragraph

The opening paragraph should provide details on why you’re getting in touch.

Think about what you want to achieve with this letter before forming your answer. For example, you could say that it’s been a dream of yours to work for the company and that you feel that, given the chance, you’d love to bring new skills and ideas to the table. You can also highlight any qualifications you have here.

Middle paragraph(s)

This is where you will explain why you’re suitable for the position by listing skills you’ve developed through previous work experience . Remember that this shouldn’t be a word-for-word copy of your résumé; rather, you should use this as an opportunity to expand on notable achievements.

And make sure you tailor the content of your letter to the particular job title and company you’re applying to — you don’t want to ramble on about irrelevant details.

Final paragraph

Finally, focus on what you bring to the table and how the company can benefit from your skills and experience. If you have statistics and figures to back up your claims, even better!

For example, if you’re an experienced project manager, you could say how you want to showcase your leadership skills and help the company reach its desired turnover, and then back this up with statistics on how you did just that in previous positions.

You should close your letter with a call-to-action. For example, you could say something like: “I look forward to hearing back from you to discuss any possibilities”. And don’t forget to thank the reader for their time!

Your name and signature

If you’re sending this by snail mail, opt for a handwritten signature. If, on the other hand, you’re sending an email, simply write your name, followed by your contact information.

Most application letter templates (and formal letter templates in general) use the Times New Roman typeface at 12 points. Other recommended fonts include Arial, Georgia and Calibri.

Tips for writing your letter

When it’s time to write an application letter, bear the following points in mind to ensure that your document captures the hiring manager’s attention and successfully creates the impression that you’d make a good fit for their company.

1. Include bullet points

Bullet points can be used as an effective formatting tool when writing your application letter. They can demonstrate points clearly and concisely, as well as help with the overall layout, allowing for bite-sized, readable chunks of information.

2. Make sure the language you use is easy to read

You might be a literary wizard , but those long words won’t impress the hiring manager if they make your letter difficult to read.

3. Use positive language

Positivity is the way forward when it comes to selling your skills to a potential employer. Therefore, you should use positive words when explaining your previous work experience.

These words include “assisted”, “conducted”, “executed”, “proposed” and “recommended”, which (when used right) can demonstrate your contribution and dedication to your role and organization.

4. Be creative

Depending on the industry that you’re interested in, you can be a bit creative with your approach . This means that you don’t have to follow the conventional structure of a cover letter, and can instead adopt a more story-like approach.

Should you add any attachments?

Since application letters are not submitted in response to particular job ads, but rather serve as an inquiry into any unadvertised openings which may be available, they tend to be standalone documents. That is to say they are not typically accompanied by other files.

Whereas cover letters are concise, tailored to the job posting and accompanied by résumés, your letter of application will be a more extensive account of your skills and experiences.

That being said, if you’re applying for a creative position such as that of a video editor or blog writer, it makes sense to include a few samples of your work that best represent your talent and ability.

Job application letter samples

The following application letter samples can give you an idea as to what to include in your letter, as well as how to structure it effectively.

1. Job application email sample

Dear Mr Cannon,

I have long been following your company’s growth and progress, being extremely passionate about clean, renewable energy. I remember coming across XYZ Renewables back in the early 2000s, when it was still in its early startup stages, and I admire how your leadership has grown the company since.

Having gained extensive experience as a solar consultant over the last decade, I have kept an eye out for any job opportunities with XYZ Renewables. This is why I am writing to you today: to express a keen interest in working with you in the future, should any solar consultation vacancies become available at your company.

In my current role at ABC Energies, I train new hires in advising and liaising with clients, as well as in designing and installing solar systems that cater to the needs and budget of our clients. I carry out the same duties myself, and have been commended for my customer service skills and technical know-how in solar systems installations. Over the last year, I have overseen and facilitated transactions totaling upwards of $1 million.

I appreciate you taking the time to read through my application. I hope that my skills and work experience can contribute to a fruitful collaboration down the line.

Yours sincerely,

Mark Rowling

2. Internship application email sample

Dear Ms Kipling,

Ever since I was a sophomore in high school, I’ve dreamed about pursuing an undergraduate degree in interior design and going on to work for an award-winning architectural firm. During my studies at AB College, where I graduated from just over a month ago, I became exposed to the works of various such firms, including your own.

XY Designs stood out to me for the simplicity of its designs (I am also a fan of Scandinavian interiors!) as well as its clever use of natural lighting and earthy colors and textures. In particular, I was impressed with the renovation of the Workwell coworking space you undertook and completed in 2022.

I believe that working alongside the designers on your team and under your mentorship would be an invaluable experience, which is why I am reaching out to enquire about any potential internship opportunities you may have this coming summer. During my studies, I have become proficient in using SketchUp and 3Ds Max, and completed my final project on Scandinavian interiors and architecture specifically. I am attaching a link to my final project portfolio below.

Thank you for your time, and I hope to hear back from you soon.

Respectfully,

3. Academic application letter sample

Gregory Allen Department of English AB University Syracuse, NY

Tuesday, March 26, 2024

Dear Mr Allen,

During my undergraduate studies in animation, I discovered — quite unexpectedly — a passion for writing, and specifically writing for film and television. Although up until that point I had believed myself to be a VFX artist in the making, the discovery caused me to reconsider. Today, I am writing to express my interest in the Creative Writing MA program at AB University.

During my final year at Arts College, I produced a screenplay for a short film, and found that setting up the scene and creating a whole new world in words was far more fascinating to me than trying to recreate it by moving around and rendering pixels on a screen. I received the highest mark out of everyone on my course for that piece of writing; and that was followed by my screenwriting professor’s recommendation: the way he spoke about AB University’s history and faculty removed any sort of doubt from my mind. It all became clear: this was to be my new path.

I have attached some writing samples, as per the application guidelines: my final-year screenplay as well as two pieces of prose I wrote in my free time. I hope that you may consider my application for a spot on the Creative Writing course.

I look forward to hearing back from you. Thank you for your time!

Best wishes,

Things to remember

From writing the first draft of your application letter to editing it and adding the final touches, remember to do the following:

1. Do your research

Research is one of the most important steps when it comes to  job searching ; you need to make sure that you know all there is about the organization you’re targeting and you should have a clear understanding of what their company culture is like.

2. Don’t forget to proofread

This goes without saying, but never send your application letter off without proofreading it. With so many readily available editing tools online, there’s no excuse for a careless typo or wordy sentences. Grammarly and Hemmingway are two of the most popular programs to help you perfect your writing.

3. Use their style of writing

You can usually guess a company’s style of writing from their website and publications. So, it’s important to try and keep your letter in line with this so they can see that you’re a real match for the position and that they’d be silly to not invite you for an interview.

Final thoughts

Whether you go to write a cover letter or an application letter, or even to put together a portfolio for a prospective employer to see, the same thing applies: everything you include must be related to the position you’re hoping to land.

So, before you’ve started writing, take time to consider which of your skills, qualities and achievements best portray you as a strong candidate , and how you can best convey your interest in (and suitability for) the company as a whole.

Have you ever written an application letter before? Do you have any other tips to share with fellow jobseekers? Leave us a comment in the comments section below!

Originally published on August 21, 2018. Updated by Electra Michaelidou.

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• Career Blog

Writing a Winning Job Application Letter: Tips and Examples

A job application letter, also known as a cover letter, is a formal letter that accompanies your resume and introduces you to a potential employer. The purpose of a job application letter is to highlight your qualifications, experience, and skills that make you the perfect candidate for the job. It also helps employers understand your personality, work ethic, and how you plan to contribute to their organization.

Importance of Customization

One of the key factors that can make or break your job application letter is how well you customize it to the specific job you are applying for. Employers want to see that you have taken the time to research their company and understand what they are looking for in a candidate. Customizing your letter also shows that you are genuinely interested in the job and that you are willing to put in the extra effort to stand out from other applicants.

Brief Overview of Key Sections

While job application letters can vary slightly depending on the job and industry, they typically contain four key sections:

Introduction: This section should include a brief introduction, the job you are applying for, and how you found out about it.

Qualifications: In this section, you should discuss your qualifications and experience that make you a good fit for the job. Be sure to tailor this section to the specific job requirements to show that you have the skills they are looking for.

Skills: Here, you should highlight your relevant skills and how they apply to the job. Use examples from your past experiences to demonstrate your proficiency in each skill.

Closing: The closing paragraph should thank the employer for considering your application and provide contact information for them to reach you.

In this article, we will dive into each of these sections in more detail and provide tips and examples to help you write a winning job application letter.

Understand the Job Requirements

To write a winning job application letter, it is important to thoroughly understand the job requirements. This involves analyzing the job description and understanding the needs of the employer, as well as tailoring your letter to attract the specific employer.

A. Analyzing the Job Description

The job description provides you with valuable information about the position you are applying for. It outlines the required skills, qualifications, and responsibilities of the job. By analyzing the job description, you can determine if the role is a good fit for your experience and qualifications.

When analyzing the job description, it is important to pay attention to key phrases and requirements mentioned. These can give you insight into the priorities of the employer and allow you to tailor your application to meet those priorities.

B. Understanding the Needs of the Employer

To write a winning job application letter, it is also essential to understand the needs of the employer. This means researching the company and the industry to get a better understanding of the company culture, mission, and values. It also means understanding the desired outcome of the position and how you can address the employer’s needs.

One way to convey your understanding of the employer’s needs is to highlight relevant accomplishments in your application letter. By showing how you have successfully addressed similar challenges in the past, you can demonstrate your potential value to the employer.

C. Tailoring the Letter to Attract Specific Employer

Finally, to write a winning job application letter, it is important to tailor your letter to attract the specific employer. This means using language and examples that relate to the specific company and its values. It also means customizing your application letter to the specific job and its requirements.

To tailor your letter, take the time to research the company and its values. This can involve reviewing their website, social media, and other online resources. By addressing the specific needs and values of the employer, you can show that you are invested in the position and the company.

To write a winning job application letter, it is important to understand the job requirements, analyze the job description, understand the needs of the employer, and tailor the letter to attract the specific employer. By doing so, you can craft an application that stands out from the competition and showcases your value as a candidate.

Research the Company and Industry

Before writing your job application letter, it’s important to research the company and industry thoroughly to increase your chances of writing a winning letter. Here are three key areas to focus on:

A. Understanding the Mission, Vision, and Values of the Company

Make sure you take the time to research the company’s mission, vision, and values. This will help you understand the company’s goals and the qualities they look for in employees. You can find this information on the company’s website, social media pages or company annual report.

Incorporate the values and mission statement of the company into your job application letter. This highlights your alignment with the company culture, and how your beliefs and goals match that of the organization’s.

B. Identifying the Company’s Competition

Once you have an understanding of the company, you need to identify the company’s competition. Knowing who the competitors are can help you understand the industry as well as the company’s market share position.

List the company’s competitors in your job application letter and briefly explain how you see the company’s strengths overcoming the competitors’ weaknesses.

C. Industry Trends and How to Address Them

The final area to focus on when researching the company and industry is identifying current industry trends and how these trends may impact the company’s future. Use reputable sources to gather trends and predictions about the industry. This will also show the recruiter that you are not only familiar with their industry, but are engaging in informed discussion and contributing to innovative solutions.

Incorporate industry trends into your job application letter and showcase the ideas and innovations you bring, how leveraging them can enhance the company’s position and how you can contribute to any current and future challenges, for which the potential employer has yet to find a solution.

By researching and incorporating the above areas into your job application letter, you demonstrate a genuine interest in the organization and showcase clear understanding, innovative thought and how your expertise can improve the company’s performance.

Know Your Strengths and Skills

When writing a job application letter, it’s crucial to understand your unique selling proposition, relevant experience, and transferrable skills. This information will help you stand out from the other applicants and potentially land the job of your dreams.

A. Identifying Your Unique Selling Proposition

Your unique selling proposition (USP) is what sets you apart from the other candidates. It could be a specific skill, experience or personality trait that aligns with the company’s values and job requirements. Start by analyzing the job description and researching the company culture to identify what makes you an ideal candidate for the role.

Once you have identified your USP, use it as the main selling point in your job application letter. Highlight your strengths and skills and explain how they align with the job requirements and the company’s values. This will show the hiring manager that you are not just another candidate, but someone who has something valuable to offer.

B. Highlighting Your Relevant Experience and Accomplishments

Your work experience and achievements are essential in demonstrating your abilities and suitability for the job. When crafting your job application letter, focus on highlighting your relevant experience and accomplishments. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you have contributed in previous roles and how those skills could be applied to the new role you are applying for.

Be sure to use metrics whenever possible as numbers are a great way to showcase your achievements. For example, if you were able to increase sales revenue by 20% in your previous role, mention it in your letter. This will give the hiring manager a clear understanding of your capabilities and how they align with the job requirements.

C. Understanding How to Leverage Transferrable Skills

Transferrable skills are those abilities that you have gained from your previous experiences that are not necessarily related to the job you are applying for. They can be valuable in demonstrating your adaptability and ability to learn quickly.

When discussing your transferrable skills in your job application letter, highlight how they could be applied to the new role you are applying for. For example, if you have strong communication skills, explain how you could use that to effectively collaborate with team members and clients.

By understanding and leveraging your unique selling proposition, relevant experience and accomplishments, and transferrable skills, you can write a job application letter that stands out from the crowd. Remember to tailor your letter to the job requirements and company culture to increase your chances of success.

Address Gaps in Your Resume or Experience

When applying for a job, it’s important to consider any gaps in your resume or experience that might be a red flag for hiring managers. Addressing these gaps upfront can demonstrate your accountability and willingness to take ownership of your shortcomings.

A. Taking ownership of failings

If you have gaps in your work history or experience, don’t try to hide or make excuses for them. Instead, take ownership of any failings and show that you’re actively working to improve yourself. This could involve taking courses, pursuing certifications, or volunteering in relevant areas to gain hands-on experience.

B. Finding a workaround for unfilled requirements

Sometimes a job posting requires specific qualifications or experience that you don’t have. In these cases, it’s important to find a workaround that demonstrates your ability to still meet the employer’s needs. This could involve highlighting related experience or transferable skills that could compensate for the missing requirement. Alternatively, it might involve offering to take on additional training or work with a mentor to acquire the missing knowledge.

C. Highlighting transferable skills to counter an irrelevant job background

When applying for a job in a new industry or field, it’s common to have a background that might not seem directly relevant. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean you’re unqualified for the role. By highlighting transferable skills, such as leadership, problem-solving, or communication, you can demonstrate your ability to adapt to new situations and learn quickly.

Addressing gaps in your resume or experience is an important aspect of writing a winning job application letter. By taking ownership of your failings, finding workarounds for unfilled requirements, and highlighting transferable skills, you can position yourself as a strong candidate and increase your chances of landing the job you want.

Crafting an Attention-grabbing Opening Paragraph

In the competitive job market, first impressions matter. The opening paragraph of your job application letter is your opportunity to make a positive and lasting impression on potential employers. In this section, we’ll explore the importance of crafting an attention-grabbing opening paragraph and provide tips and examples on how to do so.

A. Importance of First Impressions

Studies show that it takes less than 30 seconds for a recruiter or hiring manager to form an initial impression of a job candidate. This means that your opening paragraph is a critical component of your job application letter. Your goal is to capture the employer’s interest and convince them to continue reading.

B. Creative and Engaging Opening Lines

One effective way to capture the employer’s attention is by starting your letter with a creative and engaging opening line. This can be a quote, a personal story, a relevant statistic, or a bold statement. The key is to be authentic and genuine while still standing out from other applicants.

C. Strategies for Catching the Employer’s Attention

Beyond the opening line, there are several strategies you can use to further capture the employer’s attention. These include highlighting relevant skills and experience, demonstrating enthusiasm for the position and company, and connecting your qualifications to the job requirements.

By following these tips and examples, you can craft an attention-grabbing opening paragraph that sets you apart from the competition and piques the employer’s interest.

Highlighting Your Accomplishments

When it comes to writing a winning job application letter, highlighting your accomplishments is crucial. This allows potential employers to see the proven results that you can bring to their organization. Here are a few tips on how to effectively highlight your accomplishments:

A. Demonstrating Achievements in Previous Roles

One of the most effective ways to demonstrate your achievements is by highlighting your accomplishments in your previous roles. This shows that you have a track record of success and can bring that success to your next job. When highlighting your achievements, make sure to focus on results, not just responsibilities. Instead of stating that you managed a team, highlight the specific results that you achieved as a team leader.

For example, instead of saying, “Managed a team of 10 employees,” you could say, “Led a team of 10 employees to achieve a 25% increase in sales within the first quarter.” This shows the impact you had in your previous role and gives potential employers an idea of what you can achieve in their organization.

B. Using Data to Support Accomplishments

Using data to support your accomplishments is a powerful way to illustrate the impact you had in your previous roles. This could include data such as sales figures, customer satisfaction ratings, or employee retention rates. When using data, make sure to include specific numbers and percentages.

For example, instead of saying, “Improved customer satisfaction,” you could say, “Increased customer satisfaction ratings by 15% through implementing a new customer service training program.” This demonstrates the impact you had on the organization and the value you can bring to a potential employer.

C. Highlighting Relevant Certifications and Awards

Another way to highlight your accomplishments is by showcasing any relevant certifications or awards you have received. This shows that you have taken the time to invest in your professional development and have been recognized for your achievements.

When highlighting certifications and awards, make sure to explain why they are relevant to the job you are applying for. For example, if you are applying for a marketing position, highlighting your Google Analytics certification would be relevant as it demonstrates your analytics skills.

Highlighting your accomplishments is a crucial part of writing a winning job application letter. By demonstrating your achievements in previous roles, using data to support your accomplishments, and highlighting relevant certifications and awards, you can show potential employers the value you can bring to their organization.

Showcasing Your Writing Skills

When it comes to writing a winning job application letter, showcasing your exceptional writing skills is crucial to increase your chances of getting hired. Employers often look for applicants who have a way with words, can express themselves clearly, and can craft compelling content that leaves a lasting impression. Here are several ways to showcase your writing skills:

A. Highlighting experience in writing

One of the most effective ways to showcase your writing skills is to highlight your experience as a writer. This can include previous work experience in writing-related fields such as journalism, marketing, or content creation. If you have a writing degree, mention it. You can also share published articles or blog posts that you have written to demonstrate your skills in action. Highlighting relevant experience shows that you have the skills needed to excel in the role you are applying for.

B. Incorporating keywords

Incorporating keywords relevant to the job posting can also help showcase your writing skills. Employers often use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to scan resumes and cover letters for specific keywords related to the position. By including these keywords, you can increase your chances of getting past the initial screening process and showcase your understanding of industry-specific language.

C. Proper grammar, spelling, and tone

Finally, it’s essential to ensure that your writing exhibits proper grammar, spelling, and tone. Errors in these areas can undercut the impact of your application letter and send the wrong message to your potential employer. Take the time to proofread your cover letter and resume carefully, and have someone else review them too. Double-check for proper punctuation, spelling errors, and that your tone fits the professional context.

Showcasing your writing skills is critical when applying for jobs, particularly those that require excellent communication skills. Highlighting relevant experience, incorporating keywords, and ensuring proper grammar, spelling, and tone are strategies that can help set you apart from other applicants and make a lasting impression on potential employers.

Using Power Words and Phrases

When writing a job application letter, it is essential to use powerful words and phrases that can help you stand out from the crowd. Here are some tips to help you select the right words:

A. Selecting Strong Action Words

Action words can help demonstrate your skills and experience effectively. Use verbs that showcase your achievements and contributions to your previous roles. For instance, rather than saying you “assisted” your team, use words such as “led,” “managed,” or “initiated” to emphasize your role in driving projects and initiatives forward.

B. Avoiding Common Clichés and Buzzwords

Although buzzwords and clichés may seem tempting, they could potentially undermine the impact of your letter. Instead of using cookie-cutter phrases like “I am a team player,” try to use specific examples to illustrate your ability to work collaboratively. Also, avoid jargon that may not be familiar to the reader and opt for straightforward language that can be easily understood.

C. Crafting Impactful and Persuasive Sentences

To make your letter more impactful and persuasive, use language that emphasizes your strengths and accomplishments. Start sentences with action words and focus on the results you have achieved. Also, be specific and illustrate your points with concrete examples that demonstrate your value to the prospective employer.

When writing your job application letter, make sure to choose powerful words that demonstrate your expertise and experience effectively. Avoid using clichés and buzzwords and instead focus on crafting persuasive and impactful sentences that showcase your strengths and contributions. By following these principles, you can create a compelling letter that increases your chances of landing the job you want.

Formatting and Presentation of Your Job Application Letter

When it comes to writing a winning job application letter, the presentation and formatting of the letter are just as important as the content. Here are some tips to ensure your letter looks professional and polished:

A. Ensure consistency in formatting

Make sure your letter has a consistent format throughout. This means using the same font and font size for the entire letter. Also, ensure that the margins and spacing are consistent from beginning to end.

B. Proper use of fonts, margins, and spacing

Use a standard font like Times New Roman or Arial, in a legible size (such as 11pt or 12pt). Be sure to use proper spacing between paragraphs and section headers. It’s important to have enough white space to make the letter easy to read, but not so much that it takes up unnecessary space.

C. Guidelines on length of the letter

Longer letters can seem rambling and may deter the hiring manager from reading the whole thing. Focus on the most important points and make them clear and succinct. Remember, your goal is to make a strong case for yourself as a candidate, not overwhelm the reader with information.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your job application letter looks professional, polished, and focused on what matters most – your qualifications for the job.

Sample Job Application Letter

Writing a winning job application letter is important if you’re looking to impress the hiring manager and land your dream job. In this section of the article, we’ll walk through a sample job application letter, analyze its strong points, and provide strategies to improve it.

A. Walk Through a Sample Job Application Letter

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the position of Marketing Manager at ABC Company, as advertised on [job board]. With over [number] years of experience in the marketing industry, I believe I have the skills and knowledge to succeed in this role and make a significant contribution to your team.

During my time at XYZ Company, I was responsible for developing and executing successful marketing campaigns that exceeded client expectations and resulted in increased ROI. My experience in digital marketing, social media management, and content creation have prepared me well for this role. I am highly adaptable, and I have a proven track record of implementing innovative strategies to achieve business objectives.

In addition, I am a strong communicator and collaborator, and I work well in cross-functional teams. I am confident that my skills and experience make me a strong candidate for the role of Marketing Manager at ABC Company.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

B. Analyzing the Strong Points in the Letter

The sample job application letter has several strong points:

• The candidate clearly expresses their interest in the position and summarizes their skills and experience in the marketing industry.
• The letter highlights the candidate’s successful track record in executing marketing campaigns and achieving business objectives.
• The candidate demonstrates their adaptability and ability to implement innovative strategies.
• The letter emphasizes the candidate’s communication and collaboration skills.

C. Strategies to Improve the Letter

To improve the sample job application letter, consider the following strategies:

• Start with a strong opening sentence that grabs the hiring manager’s attention, such as a personal anecdote or a statement about the company’s mission.
• Use specific examples of your achievements and accomplishments to demonstrate your value to the company.
• Customize your letter to the specific job and company by conducting research and referencing relevant company initiatives or values.
• Show enthusiasm and a willingness to learn by expressing interest in the company’s future projects or goals.

By implementing these strategies, you can enhance your job application letter and increase your chances of landing an interview with your dream company.

Writing a winning job application letter requires attention to detail, strong communication skills, and a clear understanding of the hiring company’s needs and values. By following these tips and analyzing examples such as the one above, you can take your job application letter to the next level and stand out from the competition.

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Sample Cover Letter for a Job Application

What Is an Application Letter?

What to include in your application letter, tips for writing a cover letter, cover letter sample and template, email cover letter sample.

• How to Send an Email Application

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Alex Dos Diaz / The Balance

What's the best way to write a letter to apply for a job? Your letter should detail your specific qualifications for the position and the skills you would bring to the employer. What’s most important is to show the employer that you’re a perfect match for the job.

Your job application letter is an opportunity to highlight your most relevant qualifications and experience. An effective cover letter will enhance your application, showcase your achievements, and increase your chances of landing an interview.

Review what to include in a job application letter, tips for writing that will get your application noticed, and examples of cover letters and email messages to send when applying for a job.

Key Takeaways

• An application letter accompanies a resume and may be uploaded to a job portal, sent via email, or even sent by postal mail, depending on the employer’s requirements.
• Application letters are an ideal way to show your interest in a job and highlight your most relevant skills.
• It’s important to match your letter to the job description and show the employer you have the qualifications they are seeking.

A   letter of application, also known as a  cover letter , is a document sent with your resume to provide additional information about your skills and experience to an employer. Your letter of application is intended to provide detailed information on why you are an ideal candidate for the job.

Your application letter should let the employer know what position you are applying for, what makes you a strong candidate, why they should select you for an interview, and how you will follow up.

Effective application letters explain the reasons for your interest in the specific organization and identify the most relevant skills that qualify you for the job.

Unless an employer specifically requests a job application letter sent by postal mail, most cover letters today are sent by email or attached as a file in an online application tracking system.

As with all cover letters, a job application letter is divided into sections:

• The heading includes your name and contact information.
• A  greeting  addressed to a specific person, if possible.
• The introduction includes why the applicant is writing.
• The body discusses your relevant qualifications and what you have to offer the employer.
• The close thanks the reader and provides contact information and follow-up details.
• Your  signature to end the letter .

Here’s how to ensure your application supports your resume, highlights your most relevant qualifications, and impresses the hiring manager.

Get off to a direct start.  In your first paragraph, explain why you are writing. Mention the job title, company name, and where you found the job listing. While you can also briefly mention why you are a strong candidate, this section should be short and to the point.

Offer something different than what's in your resume. You can make your language a bit more personal than in your resume bullet points, and you can tell a narrative about your work experience and career.

Application letters typically accompany resumes, so your letter should showcase information that your resume doesn't.

Make a good case.  Your first goal with this letter is to progress to the next step: an interview. Your overarching goal, of course, is to get a job offer. Use your application letter to further both causes. Offer details about your experience and background that show why you are a good candidate. How have other jobs prepared you for the position? What would you bring to the role and the company? Use this space to  emphasize your strengths .

Close with all the important details.  Include a thank you at the end of your letter. You can also share your contact information and mention how you will follow up.

This is a sample cover letter.  Download the cover letter template  (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for an email sample.

The Balance

John Donaldson 8 Sue Circle Smithtown, CA 08067 909-555-5555 john.donaldson@email.com

September 6, 2023

George Gilhooley LTC Company 87 Delaware Road Hatfield, CA 08065

Dear Mr. Gilhooley,

I am writing to apply for the programmer position advertised in the Times Union. As requested, I enclose my certification, resume, and references.

The role is very appealing to me, and I believe that my strong technical experience and education make me a highly competitive candidate for this position. My key strengths that would support my success in this position include:

• I have successfully designed, developed, and supported live-use applications.
• I strive continually for excellence.
• I provide exceptional contributions to customer service for all customers.

With a BS degree in computer programming, I have a comprehensive understanding of the full lifecycle of software development projects. I also have experience in learning and applying new technologies as appropriate. Please see my resume for additional information on my experience.

I can be reached anytime via email at john.donaldson@email.com or by phone at 909-555-5555.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to speaking with you about this employment opportunity.

Signature  (only if a hard copy letter)

John Donaldson

The following is a sample email cover letter to send as part of a job application.

Email Application Letter Example

Subject: Colleen Warren - Web Content Manager Position

Dear Hiring Manager,

I'm writing to express my interest in the Web Content Manager position listed on Monster.com. I have experience building large, consumer-focused, health-based content sites. While much of my experience has been in the business world, I understand the social value of this sector, and I am confident that my business experience will be an asset to your organization.

My responsibilities have included the development and management of website editorial voice and style, editorial calendars, and the daily content programming and production for various websites.

I have worked closely with health care professionals and medical editors to provide the best possible information to a consumer audience of patients. I have also helped physicians use their medical content to write user-friendly and easily comprehensible text.

Experience has taught me how to build strong relationships with all departments in an organization. I have the ability to work within a team, as well as cross-team. I can work with web engineers to resolve technical issues and implement technical enhancements. 

I am confident working with development departments to implement design and functional enhancements, monitor site statistics, and conduct search engine optimization.

Thank you for your consideration.

Colleen Warren colleen.warren@email.com 555-123-1234 www.linked.com/colleenwarren

How to Send an Email Application Letter

If sending your cover letter via email, list your name and the job title you are applying for in the  subject line  of the email:

Colleen Warren - Web Content Manager Position

Include your contact information in your email signature but don't list the employer's contact information.

Do you have to write a cover letter when you apply for a job?

Some employers require cover letters. If they do, it will be mentioned in the job posting. Otherwise, it’s optional but it can help your chances of securing an interview. A cover letter gives you a chance to sell yourself to the employer, showcase your qualifications, and explain why you are a perfect candidate for the job.

How can you use a cover letter to show you’re a qualified candidate?

One of the easiest ways to show an employer how you’re qualified for a job is to make a list of the requirements listed in the job posting and match them to your resume . Mention your most relevant qualifications in your cover letter, so the hiring manager can see, at a glance, that you have the credentials they are looking for.

CareerOneStop. " How Do I Write a Cover Letter? "

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• Job Application Documents

How to Write a Job Application Letter (with Examples)

Last Updated: August 9, 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. 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 10,728,193 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.”

• 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. [13] 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 1 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

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-winning cover letter

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Writing a cover letter for a job application but not sure where to start? 🤔 Career.io host, Kevin, is here with expert tips that will help break writing a cover letter down into simple and easy steps to follow.

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Official Job Application Letter

Letter maker.

In this fast-paced business environment, it has become very difficult for job seekers to find a job that fits their skills and qualifications. The phrase “job applicants need to stand out” has been stated and implied so many times that it has quite lost its purpose. But despite the phrase being overused, it still bears great importance for job applicants wanting to land their dream job.

• Reference Letter from a Previous Employer Examples – PDF
• Character Reference Letter Examples – PDF

The first step to a successful job application is the creation and submission of a job application letter. Listed below are job application letter examples in PDF format to help you in creating your own application letter. We also included some tips on how to create a job application letter as well as sample job application letters.

Financial Adviser Job Application Letter Example

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Graphic Designer Job Application Letter Example

Size: 338 KB

Journalist Job Application Letter Example

Size: 76 KB

Nurse Job Application Letter Example

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Tips in Creating a Job Application Letter

A job application letter is not difficult to compose. You just need to incorporate the correct details and you will be hired by the company you are applying for in no time. Here are some tips in creating a job application letter :

Specify the recipient of the letter

It is of high importance that the job application letter should be addressed to a specific person, either to the human resource manager or any company officer. Most of the time, the job listing includes information on to whom you will be submitting your application. The full name together with the designation is usually listed down (for example: Ms. Elizabeth Olsen, Human Resource Manager, or Mr. Paul Bettany, Finance and Payroll Manager).

If a name is nowhere to be found, do research and try to locate the names of the company officers. If you are still unsuccessful, you can just address the application letter to the human resource department (for example: Human Resource Department, ABC Corporation). Take note that addressing to the human resource department is your last option, as listing down the specific recipient is more formal and will be appreciated more by the company.

Limit the content to three paragraphs max

Limit the length of your job application letter to three paragraphs maximum. The first paragraph should include information on the job position you are applying for and the reason why you are applying for the job. The second paragraph should include a short description of your skills as well as the reasons why the company should hire you. The third or closing paragraph should indicate your contact number and/or email address as well as a few sentences that you are looking forward to meeting with them in the future.

Some job application letters combine the first and second paragraphs, while the closing paragraph always closes the job application letter on a high note. Take note that the job application letter is a formal business document and you are addressing the letter to professionals who have years of experience in their respective fields. Make sure the letter is only one-page long and the content should cut directly to the point. HR managers and other company officers don’t have time to read very lengthy job application letters, and these types of letters will easily take a one-way trip to the trash bin.

Be professional

As previously mentioned, job application letters are formal business documents. You are addressing these documents to managers, officers, CEOs, or business owners. Since you are already a professional yourself, keep the job application letter professional. This includes avoiding statements that come off as desperate and hopeless. Among the statements to completely avoid are:

• “Please hire me, I need a job.”
• “Please hire me, I haven’t had a job in a long time.”
• “I have friends working in the company.”
• “My father is good friends with the CEO.”
• “I am willing to work for any job in the company.”
• “I don’t mind working 10 hours a day including Sundays.”
• “It’s hard finding a job being a fresh graduate.”

Don’t forget your signature

Never forget to affix your signature in the job application letter. It might be the easiest thing to do but most times applicants tend to forget affixing their signatures due to mostly being in a hurry to submit their application. Additionally, to make the job application letter formal, do not attach a digital signature . Use your own handwriting (and preferably a marker) instead.

Outline for Official Job Application Letter Example

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PT Job Application Letter Example

Size: 119 KB

Social Worker Job Application Letter Example

Size: 161 KB

Sample Job Application Letter with Format (for applicant with experience)

January 1, 2018 (date to be listed should be when the application letter will be submitted)

(standard format – phone number, home address, email address of applicant)

(standard format – name of HR manager or other company officer, name of company, company address) 

Dear Ms. Jones:

I am very interested with the job position your company is offering, namely the full-time Sales Executive position. The reason why I am applying for this position is due mainly to the lure and prestige that your company brings. XYZ Corporation is one of the leading retailers of computer equipment in the city, and has been so for the past decade.

My track record as a proven and effective sales person has also led me in applying for this job. I have worked previously for ABC Corporation and DEF Corporation for five years combined, both of which involved heavy sales work.

My interest in working for the company, my proven sales track record, and my desire to be the best sales person I can become will help me land this job. You can reach at this phone number, +02987443546 and I have also attached my resume for your reference.

I hope we can talk soon about my application. Thank you very much!

Chuck Taylor  

Sample Job Application Letter with Format (for fresh-graduate applicants)

July 4, 2018 (date to be listed should be when the application letter will be submitted)

Greetings, Mr. Lee!

I am submitting this application with the intent of applying as a Comic Book Artist in your company. I recently graduated with a Fine Arts degree from the University of Michigan, and working for Marvel Entertainment, Inc., will definitely start off my graphic artist career on a high note.

Despite having no work experience after only graduating last month, I believe can become a long-term asset for Marvel Entertainment, Inc., due to the skills I possess. I am very proficient in both Adobe Photoshop and CorelDRAW, as evident in the designs I attached in this application.

Aside from the designs, I also attached my resume as well as my transcript of records for your easy reference. I hope we can talk soon about my application. Thank you and have a nice day!

Wade Wilson    

Sample Job Application Letter with Format (for career-shift applicants)

February 14, 2018 (date to be listed should be when the application letter will be submitted)

Good day, Ms. Targaryen!

I hope you are having a fine day! I am very interested in the Technical Analyst vacancy which your company is hiring. This is to inform you that although I do not have any working experience as a technical analyst, I have been preparing for this day ever since I switched careers from being a registered nurse.

My passion has always involved programming and software development, in which I assisted my brother in his software business, selling and maintaining various software security systems to small businesses around the city. I resigned from my work as a nurse six months ago, and after that time I attended numerous seminars and immersed myself in an extensive self-review on software development to prepare me for this job application.

I have attached my resume, certificates from the software development seminars I attended, and various character references with mention of my programming skills for your reference.  

Thank you and I hope we can talk soon about my application.

Respectfully,

Sansa Stark         

Sample Job Application Letter (for managerial positions)

Good day, Mr. Curry!

I hope all is well with you. I am writing this application with the intent of applying as an Accounting Manager in your company, Golden State Inc. Being a manager requires lengthy relevant work experience as well as strong leadership and communication skills.

In regards to work experience, I have worked in a managerial capacity for more than four years in another accounting firm. When it comes to my leadership and communication skills, I made sure the employees in the previous company I worked in strictly adhered to company policies while meeting the required monthly and annual quota. The employees did not only barely meet the quota, but performed at high efficiency rates on a regular basis.

My long-term plan is to work with Golden State Inc. to continue my career on a successful path. I also plan to replicate the success I had with my previous company to Golden State, and make sure this company meets its goals and achieve long-term sustainability.

I have also attached my resume for your reference. I am looking forward to meeting with you soon to discuss my application. Thank you and have a great day!

Sincerely yours,

LeBron James, CPA

Store Manager Job Application Letter Example

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Storeperson Job Application Letter Example

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Survey Assistant Job Application Letter Example

Size: 79 KB

Writing a job application letter is simple. Even submitting the letter to the company is much more tiring and nerve-racking. As long as you incorporate the necessary details in writing a job application letter, then you can be assured that you will be shortlisted by the company for an interview or exam. We also included some examples (in PDF format) for your reference.

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• Job Application Letter Format

Job Application Letter Format - Check Out How to Write and Sample Letters

Are you a person who has completed their degree and is looking for a job? Have you been sending out job applications but have not heard back from the employer? If so, going through this article on job application letter writing format is what you should do now. Read through the following topics to understand the areas you are missing out on and what recruiters are looking for in a job application.

Table of Contents

Writing a job application letter – what recruiters expect.

• Formal Letter for Job Application for the Position of Cryptographer

Sample Job Application Letter for the Post of High School English Teacher

Sample job application mail template.

• FAQs on Job Application Letter Format

Every individual needs a job that pays them well so as to be able to live a comfortable life. In this competitive world, people find it really hard to get themselves placed in a good company due to the little things they thought were not that important and did not take into consideration. According to many, how you perform at the interview is all that matters, but that is not true. The employer builds an opinion about you from the very beginning. From the time you send in your job application, or your profile gets noticed on an online platform, the employer notices each and every little detail. Your job application letter is one of the first things that creates an impression about you in the eyes of the recruiter, so it is vital that you understand how to write a job application letter and draft a good one.

There are a few main aspects that recruiters look for when going through a job application letter. They try to analyse how passionate you are about taking up the particular job. Being genuine is one of the qualities that they look for in a potential candidate. How your skills and experience would add value to the company or organisation is one of the most important pointers they would be interested to know. You have got to convince the recruiter that you are the right person for the job in the way you present the job application letter.

Sample Job Application Letters for You

When you start writing your job application letter, keep in mind that a job application letter is not something casual. It has to be written in the format of a formal letter . Know how exactly you should write a job application letter by going through the sample job application letters given below.

Formal Letter of Job Application for the Position of Cryptographer

589/22, Srilakshmi Nagar Block 3

Subbanna Palya Extension

Banaswadi, Bangalore North

January 7, 2022

The HR Manager

Anton Technologies

Electronic City

Bangalore – 560012

Subject: Job application letter for the position of Cryptographer

Respected Sir,

This is with reference to the job posting on LinkedIn for the position of Cryptographer in your esteemed organisation. I have carefully read the job description. I have also browsed through your official website to understand the kind of work you do, and I am interested in working with you.

I am an MSc Electronics graduate, and I have completed multiple diploma courses in Cyber Security. I have hands-on experience of working in the field of cyber security for five years. Planning and executing various security means, analysing and documenting security systems, rebuilding and making arrangements for the safety of the security system, writing and developing security codes are some of the areas I have good experience with. I believe that I will be a good fit for the role in your company and that I can do justice to the responsibilities I will have to take up.

I have enclosed my resume and work samples for your kind review.

Thank you for your time and consideration. Hoping to hear from you.

Yours sincerely,

28 C, K K Nagar

Avarampalayam

Coimbatore – 641045

12 th January, 2022

The Principal

D A V Matriculation Higher Secondary School

Chennai – 600012

Subject: Job application letter for the post of High School English Teacher

Dear Mr. Sishir Kumar,

I am writing to you to express my interest in the job opening for the post of High School English Teacher in your prestigious institution. I have reviewed the roles and responsibilities in the job description you have posted on the Naukri employment portal dated 09/01/2022.

I am an MA English graduate. I have also completed my Masters in Education. I have a teaching experience of three years at the Indian Public School, Coimbatore. I have handled students from Class VI to X. I have experience in teaching the IGCSE syllabus. I have also been a part of the curriculum development team. I am looking for better opportunities where I can use my skills and expertise to help and mould students and their communication skills. I believe that I can do well and play a good role in providing quality education.

I have attached my resume and experience certificate for your kind perusal. Looking forward to hearing from you.

Thank you for taking the time to review my application.

LINDA RODRIGUES

Receiver’s mail id: [email protected]

Subject: Job Application for the Role of (Mention the job role you are applying for)

Respected Sir/Ma’am,

I am (Mention your full name) and I would like to apply for the role of (Job role) at your prestigious company.

I have completed my (Mention your degree) in (Mention the subject/specialisation). I have (Mention the years of experience) years of experience in the field of (Mention the field of work) at (Mention the name of your previous company). I have an in depth knowledge of the duties that I will have to perform and expertise in the particular field of work that would help me accomplish all the assigned tasks in the event of me being placed in your company.

I have enclosed herewith my resume, my detailed profile and a certificate of experience for your reference and review. I have also provided my contact information. Please feel free to contact me in case of any questions. I am looking forward to meeting with you in person for an interview.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Your full name

Contact number : 123456

Email id: [email protected]

Frequently Asked Questions on Job Application Letter Format

How do i write an application letter for a job.

Tips to write a job application letter:

• Mention the job position you are applying for and where you found the information about the job opening.
• Introduce yourself and highlight your skills and qualifications.
• State strongly why you would be right for the job.
• Use a polite tone throughout your letter.
• Stay genuine and professional.
• End the letter on a positive note.
• Proofread the letter before you send it to the concerned hiring manager/employer.

What is a job application letter?

A job application letter is a cover letter that is written to the potential employer to provide them with information about your qualifications, skills and experience. It is sent along with your resume and other necessary documents.

How do you end a job application letter?

You can end your job application letter by thanking the employer for the time and consideration in going through your job application. You can use a complimentary closing such as ‘Yours sincerely’, ‘Sincerely’, ‘Best regards’, etc.

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Chief of Staff for Operations

The Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games will be hosted in Los Angeles, California in 2028, returning to the United States for the first time in over 30 years. 2028 will be the first time LA hosts the Paralympic Games, creating an opportunity to expand awareness, understanding and inclusion of people with disabilities.

LA28, the organizers for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles, is on a mission to create an unparalleled Games experience for athletes, fans, partners, our community and our people. Our vision is to collectively create what’s next through sport, community and the power of our differences.

The 2028 Olympics and Paralympics will represent LA and leverage the strength of our community’s diversity and creativity as we collectively work to design a Games that we all want to be a part of. We do this by focusing on people and by inviting everyone into the story of the LA28 Games.

The LA28 organizing committee is an independent, non-profit organization that is privately funded and governed by a board of directors. 

Our Vision is to collectively create what’s next by harnessing sport, community and the power of our differences. Our Mission is to create an unparalleled Paralympic and Olympic Games for athletes, fans, partners, our community and our people.

Values and Behaviors:

• Optimism  – Embody a positive, enthusiastic, and solution-oriented attitude in everything we do; challenge the status quo, inspire and support one another to achieve our best; have our eyes on the future and believe we can make a meaningful impact
• Integrity  – We communicate openly and honestly, listen, and respectfully value multiple perspectives; we do what we say and are accountable for everything we do; we do the right thing, always. Even when it isn’t easy
• Excellence  – We hold ourselves to the highest standard and expectations; we live our values and truths and persevere through challenges; we are continuous learners and adapt and pivot with speed to meet changing needs
• Inclusion  – We seek to represent, include, empower and level the playing field; our work reflects the communities we serve and the world in which we live; we leverage our platforms to bring awareness to issues relevant to who we are
• Co-Creation  – We are authors of a shared story. Everyone contributes their unique voice to our shared mission; we share pride in our accomplishments and ownership of our shortcomings
• Boldness – We embrace creativity, courage and outside-the-box thinking; we are unafraid to take risks, explore unconventional solutions, and learn from the process; we are innovators, disruptors, and challengers of the status quo

Chief of Staff for Operations:

The Chief of Staff  for operations manages day-to-day operations within the Office of the CEO. Reporting to the CEO, they will play an instrumental role in partnering with the CEO to prepare for meetings and daily activities, manage special projects, and partner internally and externally to ensure follow-up and execution on initiated tasks. Through seamless coordination of various stakeholders, the Chief of Staff will optimize CEO effectiveness, drive CEO initiatives forward, and ultimately support advancement of our vision and mission for LA28. This position will have people leadership responsibilities within the Office of the CEO.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare meeting agenda, materials, and briefings for CEO engagements with internal and external stakeholders.
• Provide people leadership within the Office of the CEO to coordinate the CEO’s calendar and schedule, prioritizing meetings and activities to align with LA28 goals.
• Lead and manage special projects within the organization, ensuring timely and successful execution.
• Attend strategic meetings alongside and without the CEO to facilitate connections, collaboration, and alignment of activities.
• Follow-up on action items and tasks arising from meetings, ensuring accountability and progress tracking.
• Foster collaboration and communication among LA28 teams and other external organizations as appropriate.
• Continuously evaluate and optimize processes to enhance efficiency and effectiveness within the Office of the CEO. Identify and communicate opportunities for improvement across the wider business landscape.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and communications on behalf of the CEO for internal and external stakeholders.
• Develop a deep understanding of the LA28’s operations and strategic direction to provide informed support to the CEO.
• Partner with relevant stakeholder groups, as well as conduct independent research and analysis on emerging opportunities, as appropriate, to inform the CEO’s strategic decision making.
• Manage confidential and sensitive information with the utmost discretion and confidentiality.
• Facilitate communication and information flow between the CEO and various departments, ensuring alignment and clarity of direction.

Background & Requirements:

• Prior chief of staff experience in large, complex environments.
• Proven track record in facilitating progress in complex and ambiguous project settings. 
• Demonstrated project management skills with ability to lead and manage special projects from inception to completion. Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines under pressure.
• Analytical ability, capable of conducting research, analyzing data, and synthesizing insights to inform strategic decision making.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities, capable of identifying opportunities for improvement in the Office of the CEO and wider business landscape.
• Excellent communications skills, with the ability to prepare clear and concise reports, presentations, and communications for various audiences.
• Ability to quickly build credibility and foster collaboration and communication among teams, promoting cohesive teamwork and alignment of initiatives.
• Excellent organization skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple deadlines, and coordinate complex schedules effectively. Detail-oriented approach, ensuring accuracy and precision in all aspects of work.
• Experience leading and inspiring high performance in others, whether through direct leadership or influence leadership.
• Adaptability and flexibility to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced, and project-oriented environment, while remaining focused on organizational achievement.
• Self-motivated and proactive. Demonstrated success working independently as well as in a collaborative, project and team-based environment.
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and ethical conduct. Experience managing sensitive and confidential information.
• Minimum of 15 years of work experience in highly complex organizational setting(s).

Expectations:

• Goal-oriented and able to prioritize regularly in a dynamic environment
• Capable of working with a diverse group of cross-functional internal and external partners, in a matrix environment while managing multiple projects and deadlines
• Strong client-service orientation to build credibility and trust
• Strategic analysis capabilities to leverage research, set and measure goals, and synthesize data into insights to inform decision making
• Outstanding presentation and communication skills – written, oral and listening
• Expertise in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook), and the ability to create and develop strategic PowerPoint presentations as needed
• Demonstrated commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB)
• Strong interest in the Olympic and Paralympic Movement and sport culture
• Master’s degree or other post-graduate degree preferred
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience in a related field required
• Project management training/certifications preferred

The annual base salary range for this position is $175,000.00 - $200,000.00. The pay scale provided is the range that LA28 reasonably expects to pay as starting base compensation for this role. All LA28 compensation remains subject to final determination based on individual candidate qualifications, experience, or other reasonable criteria consistent with LA28’s operational business needs and applicable law.

LA28 does not provide relocation assistance.

LA28 is committed to operating fair and unbiased recruitment procedures allowing all applicants an equal opportunity for employment, free from discrimination on the basis of religion, race, sex, age, sexual orientation, disability, color, ethnic or national origin, or any other classification as may be protected by applicable law. We strive to build a team that is diverse, inclusive and encourages qualified candidates of all backgrounds, perspectives, and identities to apply.  We will consider all qualified candidates with criminal histories in a manner consistent with local law.  We assess applications based on relevant skills, education, and experience a candidate can add to our team.

Apply for this Job

At LA2028, Inclusion is a core pillar of our values and behaviors. We seek out and embrace diversity of all forms, respect and value different perspectives, and strive to build a team that reflects our community. This section of the application process helps us strengthen our hiring practices by mitigating unconscious bias through anonymous data collection.

Below is a set of voluntary demographic questions that are part of LA2028's Inclusion Initiatives. If you choose to fill them out, the responses will be used in aggregate to help us identify areas for improvement in our process. Your response, or your choice not to respond, will NOT be associated with your specific application and will NOT in any way be used in the hiring decision.

Enter the verification code sent to to confirm you are not a robot, then submit your application.

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How-To Geek

Mail merge is more useful than you think: 4 practical uses.

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If Your PC Won't Run Windows 11, Here Are 5 Great Linux Operating Systems to Try Instead

Which linux distro is most like windows, playstation plus premium is a must-have for retro fans, quick links, creating address labels for your wedding invitations and christmas cards, writing individualized reports, writing job application cover letters, designing certificates.

Mail merging in Microsoft Word is well known for letting you create and send personalized versions of the same email to lots of people in one go. However, the tool also has some practical everyday uses that could make your home and work life a lot easier.

In short, mail merge lets you create a document in Microsoft Word that you can personalize with individualized details , such as people's names. There are two ways to do this—you can create the list of personalized variables within Microsoft Word's mail merge feature itself, or you can create the list in another program, such as Excel, and then import the details from that list into Word.

In this article, we will show you how to use mail merge in Microsoft Word alongside Microsoft Excel, since creating comprehensive lists and databases in Excel is easier to do and manage.

Mail merge is currently not available in Word for the web—you will need to subscribe to Microsoft 365 and use the Microsoft Word desktop app to use this tool.

While enjoyable, sending wedding invitations or Christmas cards can take time, and it's easy to make mistakes, especially if you're writing the addresses on the envelopes by hand. This is why you should use Microsoft Word instead. When you're done, you can either print the names and addresses onto label paper, or use normal paper and glue, before cutting out the individual labels to stick to your envelopes.

Start in Excel by creating your list of names and addresses. Make sure you put each line of each person's name and address into separate columns, and use headings across row 1. Also, ensure that you populate all cells, as leaving blanks will cause issues with your mail merge down the line.

Then, press F12 to name and save your document in a memorable place on your computer.

Now, open a blank Word document, and click Mailings > Start Mail Merge > Labels.

To save paper, scroll down to and select "30 Per Page," and click "OK."

Turning on the Show/Hide (¶) option in the Home tab will help you see the layout and positioning of the labels you have just created.

The next step is to import the address list that you created in Excel. To do this, with the Mailings tab still open, click Select Recipients > Use An Existing List.

Use the Select Data Source window that opens to locate the Excel file containing the names and addresses, and click "Open." In the Select Table dialog box, check the checkbox that tells Word that you've used headings in your Excel table, and then click "OK".

Word is now ready to pull the data across from Excel.

Click "Insert Merge Field," and see that the headings you created in Excel are listed in the drop-down. Start by clicking the item you want to appear on the first line of the address label ("Name"), and then press Enter. Repeat the process for each line of the address label, making sure you press Enter between each one.

If the text runs over the space provided for the labels, increase the label sizes by clicking and dragging the bottom of the label row downwards, then remove any labels that move to the next page .

When you have inserted all merge fields, click "Update Labels." This will apply the merge fields you just added to each of the labels in your document.

Now, click "Preview Results" to check you're happy with how your labels look.

To complete the process, click Finish And Merge > Print Documents.

If you want to make changes to individual addresses, click Finish And Merge > Edit Individual Documents. This will open the labels in a new document, where you can make changes without affecting the other entries.

Then, ensure "All" is selected, and click "OK" to print.

Finally, cut up your labels and stick them onto your envelopes!

While the example we're going to use will be for teachers writing school reports, the same process can be used in many different roles and professions, such as surveying, assessing, managing, and reviewing.

In a Word document, type the foundation of the report, using "[NAME]" where a person's name will go, and "__" wherever an individualized part needs to be added.

Then, copy each sentence into a cell across row 1 of an Excel sheet, making sure you add a "Name" column at the start.

Then, fill in the gaps under each column for each report you want to generate, before pressing F12 to name and save the spreadsheet in a memorable location.

Now, return to your Word document. In the Mailings tab, click Select Recipients > Use An Existing List.

In the Select Data Source window that opens, locate the Excel sheet containing the report details, and click "Open." Then, in the Select Table dialog box, check the checkbox that tells Word that you've used headings in your Excel table, and click "OK".

Now, select the areas where you used [NAME] or inserted blanks in your Word document, click "Insert Merge Field," and choose the appropriate field via the "Insert Merge Field" drop-down to add it to the sentence.

After you have assigned all the fields from Excel, click "Preview Results" to see the first report. You can also use the arrows to flick through all the reports if you wish.

Finally, click "Finish and Merge," which gives you the option to review and amend the documents individually, or print the reports you generated.

It can be frustrating to regurgitate the same information in various cover letters for the many jobs you might apply for. After all, the skills you have can be applied to many different roles. This is where mail merge comes into play.

Across row 1 in a blank Excel worksheet, type the different skill categories you fall into.

In row 2, underneath each skill, write a few sentences demonstrating your possession of that skill. These sentences will ultimately be exported into your cover letter, so make sure you write them with this in mind.

Once you have finished detailing your skills, press F12 to name and save the workbook. You can go back in and add to or amend the details in this sheet at any time.

Next, when you've found a job you want to apply for , open a new Microsoft Word document, and type the opening and ending of your cover letter. Then, in the Mailings tab, click Select Recipients > Use An Existing List.

In the Select Data Source window that opens, locate the Excel sheet containing your skills, and click "Open." Then, in the Select Table dialog box, check the checkbox that tells Word that you've used headings in your Excel table, and click "OK".

Then, click "Insert Merge Field," and choose the job skill that you detailed in your Excel spreadsheet.

You will then see a placeholder indicating that the text will appear in that position when you complete the mail merge.

When you have added all your skills, click "Preview Results" to check that you are happy with the structure and order of your paragraphs. If not, you can select and reorder your text.

Inevitably, you will want to amend the wording here and there to ensure that the letter is coherent. Using the mail merge technique described in this article forms the basis of your cover letter, but you should always check it through to ensure it runs smoothly. To make changes, click "Finish And Merge," and select "Edit Individual Documents." After you click "OK," your completed cover letter will open in a new document, which you can then amend and save as necessary.

Whether you run a local football team or a kids' activity center, you might want to create certificates for your participants.

First, create your list in Excel, including things like the recipients' names, scores, standards, and whatever other individualized details you want to include. Then, press F12 to name and save these details.

Next, design your certificate in Microsoft Word. If you prefer, you can use a template by clicking File > Home > More Templates.

Now, in the Mailings tab, click Select Recipients > Use An Existing List.

Locate the recipients' details that you created in Excel, click "Open", check "First Row Of Data Contains Column Headers," and click "OK."

Then, click "Insert Merge Field" to add the fields from your Excel sheet to your Word document where appropriate.

Before you finalize your certificates, click "Preview Results" to check that everything looks as it should, and then click Finish And Merge > Print Documents.

Now that you have some ideas for using mail merge for everyday tasks, check out some of our other little-known Microsoft Word tips .

• Microsoft Word
• Microsoft Excel

Job seekers are getting increasingly bold by 'cheating' in interviews — and AI is making it worse

• Job seekers sometimes use AI to cheat in interviews, which highlights flaws in the hiring process.
• The rise of certain tech has made it easier to deceive interviewers.
• Experts suggest clearer guidelines and tech solutions to address cheating and improve hiring.

The interviewer asks you a question. You start reading a response generated by artificial intelligence from the side of your screen — maybe even using another app to make it appear your eyes are fixed on the camera.

It can feel like there are endless ways to dupe a hiring manager in a job interview — especially one that doesn't involve meeting IRL. The internet is, of course, filled with posts about how people try to sneak past the difficult questions interviewers sometimes ask.

It all points to a hiring process that can be terrible for job seekers — and for employers.

Executives told Business Insider that improving the hiring process would require more conversations about what constitutes cheating . Many employers will also need to better explain how the application process will unfold so fewer job seekers might be tempted to get sneaky.

"A lot of the efforts to cheat come from the fact that hiring is so broken. So you're just like, 'Oh, my God, how do I get through? How do I get seen? How to get assessed fairly?'" Lindsey Zuloaga, the chief data scientist at HireVue, told BI.

Is using AI during a job interview cheating?

Part of the problem now is that not everyone agrees on what's unethical. There are easy calls, like if someone feeds you answers during an interview. But what about a quick internet search to look something up? Or how about having an AI bot ingest a job description and toss out questions that could come up in an interview?

Zuloaga pointed to using chatbots to complete coding challenges as one example of a question without a clear answer.

"Customers have different views on whether using ChatGPT is even cheating or not," she said, adding that, according to one line of thinking, "it's just part of the developer's toolbox now."

Zuloaga said employers could take simple steps, like defining what cheating means and what the expectations are.

"They can say, 'Hey, we want to hear from the real you. Although tools like ChatGPT can be really useful in preparation for an interview, please speak from your own experience,'" she said.

Related stories

Zuloaga said there wasn't a reliable way to detect when a candidate might be using generative AI but that one tell might appear when a job seeker's answers lack specifics.

"Are they speaking comfortably and fluidly about things that they actually did?" she said.

Genuine answers, Zuloaga said, usually involve candidates walking through their experiences and the problems that they've solved.

Employers are trying to fight cheating during interviews

Kirthiga Reddy is the CEO of Virtualness, a startup that uses blockchain technology to authenticate certifications workers can earn through formal education or various boot camps.

She told BI that it's often too easy for people to say in an interview that they have completed coursework or training on a subject and even slap a phony achievement onto their résumé.

Reddy, who previously worked as a managing director at Facebook for India and South Asia, said the cost of verifying workers' credentials was high, both for employers and for workers.

Virtualness, which launched in late 2023, hopes that if employers use technology to verify a worker's credentials, they can worry less about the risks of taking on people who don't have the skills they claim or, worse, those who might have nefarious intentions. It can also help workers who have actually earned credentials stand out.

Even if people who misrepresent themselves get caught, Reddy said, those with fake bona fides could have kept more-honest job seekers from making it through the application process.

"You might have missed out on really great candidates or have included a bunch of candidates who you should not have included in that whole search process," she said.

Why it might be tempting to cheat

Zuloaga said part of the push to cheat came from job seekers' exasperation over what can be an arduous process. That can include what feels like unending interviews.

Octavius A. Newman previously told BI he went through a dozen interviews for a role as a creative lead and didn't get the job.

A drawn-out process isn't necessarily helpful for either side, according to Jennifer Schielke, the CEO of the staffing firm Summit Group Solutions and author of "Leading for Impact."

She tells clients they should be ready to hire as soon as they advertise a role. As Schielke previously told BI, layoffs and lengthy job searches have left many people looking for work without a sense of security.

Ravin Jesuthasan, a coauthor of "The Skills-Powered Organization" and the global leader for transformation services at the consulting firm Mercer, told BI that one challenge around hiring is that both sides are using AI more often.

Employers are using it in the hiring process, and candidates are using it to beef up their applications, help with interview prep, and even apply for jobs . And some, of course, are using it to cheat.

"It feels like this is an arms race that is just going to keep accelerating," he said. "I'm not sure that there is an end in sight."

Watch: US Bank has used AI for fraud detection as well as brand campaigns, but CMO Michael Lacorazza says the potential of the technology is yet to be fully understood

• Main content

There are currently road test cancellations or DMV offices closed for in-person services. See our “ Cancellations, Closings and Delays ” page for more information.

Request Restoration After a Driver License Revocation

Reviewing applications.

As of August 9, 2024

Driver Improvement Unit is reviewing applications that were received by mail on or before the following dates:

• Regular Applications (less than 3  alcohol convictions ) - June 13, 2024
• Multiple Alcohol Applications (3 or more  alcohol convictions ) - June 13, 2024

Next Section

A serious traffic offense or multiple offenses can result in the revocation of your New York State driver license or driving privilege.  

“Driving privilege” means that out-of-state drivers are allowed to drive a motor vehicle in New York State. A driving privilege can be suspended or revoked for the same reasons as New York State driver licenses and carries the same penalties as driving with a suspended or revoked license.

A revocation means your license is canceled, and you must apply for a new one once the revocation period is over. You may also be required to take the written and driving tests again. 

For most revocations, you must first request and receive approval from the DMV Driver Improvement Unit (DIU) before you can apply for a new driver license at a DMV office. If you are licensed in another state, you must obtain approval from DIU to have your New York State driving privilege restored. DIU must examine your full driver record to see if you can be approved under New York  State laws and requirements.

Before You Request Restoration

Before you request approval you must wait until the revocation period has been completely served.

Some situations require additional action before you can submit your request for approval. Any additional convictions of moving violations or other incidents added to your driving record can make you ineligible for approval or may delay the approval process.

If you have two or more alcohol/drugged driving convictions in 25 years , you are required to complete an alcohol evaluation and or treatment within one year from the date of the final review. For more information, see Substance Abuse Assessment and Treatment.  

If you owe any DMV fees ( suspension termination fee , driver civil penalty , or Driver Responsibility Assessment [DRA]  ), they must be paid before applying for a license or the processing of your application will be delayed.    

If you are currently suspended for failing to pay child support, before you may proceed with applying for a new driver license , you must contact your local child support collection unit to make a payment and to have the suspension cleared. For more information see Suspensions and Revocations .  

If you are currently suspended for failing to pay New York State taxes , before you may proceed with applying for a new driver license, you must contact the  New York State Department of Tax and Finance (DTF)  or call (518) 862-6000 to make a payment and to have the suspension cleared.  

If you are currently suspended for failing to file an acceptable accident report with the DMV , before you may proceed with applying for a new driver license, you must fax a completed Report of Motor Vehicle Accident (MV-104) (PDF) to (518) 486-3906 . Once this form is processed, you may continue with submitting your online request for relicensing.   

If you have open traffic tickets or owe fines to a court , you must contact the court of record. Outstanding tickets need to be addressed and all fines need to be paid before you may apply for a license. Once the court notifies the DMV that the tickets have been satisfied, you may continue with submitting your online request for relicensing.  

If your sentence from a court includes serving a term of probation and the conditions include restrictions on reapplying for a license/privilege, you must provide a copy of your conditions of probation and a letter granting permission to apply for a driver license from the court that sentenced you or from the probation office that you must report to. The letter must be on the court or probation letterhead. If your probation was terminated, you must provide a letter from the court/probation department on their letterhead, that states the date your probation was terminated. If the conditions of your probation do not include driving restrictions, you must provide a copy of the conditions. Mail or fax this information to DIU.

Request Restoration Online

If you request approval online, the system will automatically determine if you are eligible to submit an online request. If you are not eligible, it will list the reasons and explain your next steps, explain any additional payments or actions required before you can receive approval If you are eligible, it will issue your approval  immediately  (the processing of mailed requests can take up to 12 weeks).  

You cannot request approval online if any of the scenarios listed below are true. 

• You were never issued a New York State driver license, learner permit, or non-driver ID (you will need to request approval by mail).
• As part of a reexamination of your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle, you were required to take a DMV road test and if your driver license was revoked because you failed the road test, you must contact your local DMV office
• You have a valid or suspended conditional or restricted license or are a current or former participant in the Impaired Driver Program. You must apply at a local Motor Vehicle office when you are eligible to receive your full license back.
• Your last full driver license issued was a Commercial Driver License (CDL). If your CDL and non-CDL driving privileges are both revoked, you may apply to DIU at the end of the non-CDL sanction for restoration of your full non-CDL privileges. Then, at the end of the CDL revocation, you may apply at any state or county motor vehicle office for restoration of your CDL privileges.
• Your revocation was a result of a conviction arising out of a fatal crash.
• Your revocation was a result of a conviction arising out of a Penal Law violation.
• Your revocation was for an uninsured accident. You must contact the DMV Insurance Services Bureau at the address below.

After You Receive Approval

You will receive approval to apply for a new driver license via email. The approval email will contain directions that you must follow to be successful when applying for a new driver license at your local DMV office. 

Request Restoration by Mail

It can take up to 12 weeks for DIU to process a request received by mail. If you request approval by mail, you must wait until 30 days before the revocation period ends to send your request.

If you need to   request approval to apply for a new license, you must complete an  Application for Permit, Driver License, or Non-Driver ID Card (MV-44) (PDF) .  Leave the “I am applying for a” boxes blank.  If you do not know your New York State driver license number, you can leave that box blank. Mail the form to the Driver Improvement Bureau at the address below. If you   reside out-of-state and need to request that your New York State driving privilege be restored ,  you must complete a  Request for New York State Driving Privileges (DS-115) (PDF) and mail it to the Driver Improvement Unit at the address below.

A $100 re-application fee must accompany your driver license application or request for reinstatement of driving privileges. The re-application fee may be paid by check or money order made payable to the “Commissioner of Motor Vehicles” and sent to the DIU. 

Note :  If you are convicted of a moving violation or another incident that affects your New York State driving record after you send your request, you may become ineligible for approval or need to wait longer for processing.

If Your Request is Denied

If your application for restoration is denied you have several options, which are also printed on denial letters issued by DIU.

You may accept the denial and take no further action. If there is a date printed on your denial letter that advises when you may reapply, you may submit a reapplication up to 60 days before that date.

Request For Relicensing Reconsideration After Denial

You may also request reconsideration of the denial by submitting the form included as part of your denial letter to DIU within 60 days of the date of your denial letter. If you have unusual, extenuating, and compelling circumstances that you believe would form a valid basis for DMV to deviate from the general revocation policy and justify approval of your driver license application you must explain in detail each circumstance.

You must provide credible, verifiable documentation to support all circumstances claimed. For example, if you need a license to drive yourself or a family member to necessary medical treatment, you must provide documentation verifying and explaining the nature of the medical condition, the need to attend necessary appointments related to the condition or treatment, and proving there is no other transportation (including affordable private and public transportation) that may be used to get to the medical appointments. Credible, verifiable documentation is documentation from a third party (not a relative) that supports your claim. Some examples are letters or statements supporting your claims from your physician, employer, religious official, government official, professors, counselors, public transportation schedules, routes and/or maps, receipts, medical bills, and appointment schedules.

Unusual, extenuating, and compelling circumstances alone do not warrant approval. If your driving history is indicative of a continued risk to highway safety, your application for re-licensing may not be approved even with extenuating circumstances.   Requests For Relicensing Reconsideration After Denial sent to DIU must include any documentation that was submitted with your initial application regarding unusual, extenuating, and compelling circumstances. If the letter to the Driver Improvement Bureau is late, it will not be considered, and the denial you received will be final. Your request/letter must be submitted to the Driver Improvement Bureau within 60 days of the date of your denial letter. If it is received after 60 days it will be rejected.

Appeals Board Review

You may also submit an appeal of your revocation to the DMV appeals board. To submit an appeal, mail the Administrative Appeal Form (AA-33A) (PDF) and a copy of your denial letter to the DMV Appeals Board within 60 days of the date of your denial letter. If it is received after 60 days, your appeal request will be rejected. By law, the Appeals Board cannot consider an appeal that is filed after 60 days. It also cannot review any arguments or claims that you have not first submitted to the Driver Improvement Bureau. Do not submit claims of unusual, extenuating, and compelling circumstances to the Appeals Board.

Reapplication 

You may submit another application for re-licensure to DIU. Although you may apply for a new driver license at any time, please be aware that DIU will review your entire driving history based on the same standards that resulted in the previous denial. Each application is also subject to the statutory $100 fee.

If Your Request is Accepted

If you are licensed by another state and you receive approval for restoration of your New York State driving privilege via email or letter and you may resume driving in New York State if you have a valid out-of-state driver license.

For revoked New York State driver license holders who were approved for relicensing following a revocation, you cannot drive until a DMV issuing office issues you a New York State driver license. You may be required to take vision, written, and/or road tests to qualify for a new license.   

You will receive an approval packet from DIU. This packet contains instructions specific to you. Follow the instructions to apply for your new driver license.  Depending on your New York State driver license record you may be approved with a Problem Driver Restriction and an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) .  You may be required to install and maintain an IID on any vehicles you own or operate before going to your local motor vehicles office to apply for your permit/license.

After you have the ignition interlock device installed, you are required to bring all of the following items from the approval packet you receive from DIU to any local Motor Vehicles Office to apply for your permit/license:

• the approval notice
• the Application for Driver License or Non-Driver ID Card (MV-44) (PDF)
• the completed “Department of Motor Vehicles Ordered Interlock Device Installation Confirmation”
• proof of name and date of birth
• Social Security Card

If you are licensed by another state and you receive approval for restoration of your New York State driving privilege, you may resume driving in New York State if you have a valid out-of-state driver license.

If you are applying for a New York State driver license or driving privilege, any additional convictions of moving violations or other incidents added to your driving record can make you ineligible for approval or may delay the approval process.

Contact Driver Improvement Unit (DIU)

Contact us by phone:, mailing address:.

Driver Improvement Unit New York State DMV 6 Empire State Plaza, Room 336 Albany, NY 12228

Contact us by fax:

Contact insurance services bureau.

Insurance Services Bureau New York State DMV 6 Empire State Plaza, Room 332B Albany, NY 12228

Related Documents

These forms are available in other languages on our forms search page.

MV-44: Application for Permit, Driver License or Non-Driver ID Card (PDF)

Use to apply for a learner permit, driver license or non-driver ID. Also use to renew your license or non-driver ID.

DS-115: Request for NYS Driving Privileges (PDF)

Used by out-of-state drivers to request restoration of their New York State driving privileges following a revocation of privileges.

This form cannot be used to request restoration of a New York State driver license or learner permit following a revocation. Revoked New York State drivers must apply for a new license using form MV-44.

AA-33A: Appeal From DMV Hearing Determination (PDF)

Use to file an appeal from a finding and/or penalty imposed after a DMV hearing regarding such matters as a fatal accident, chemical test refusal, or motor-vehicle related business regulated by DMV. Also used to appeal denial by DMV of driver license or business permit application. Cannot be used to appeal suspensions or revocations resulting from traffic violation convictions in a court or a DMV Traffic Violations Bureau.

MV-104: Report of Motor Vehicle Accident (PDF)

Required to be filed with DMV by all drivers involved in reportable motor vehicle accidents. See Motorist Accident Reports.

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