Job Application Letter
The application letter is introducing you to the employer. The letter will determine whether the employer will continue to read on and read your resume. The objective of the application letter is to obtain an interview. If you have about 70% of the skills asked for, then it is worth applying for the position.
An Employer will be looking for:
- Competence
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Demonstrated skills within the job.
Address the selection criteria in the advertisement (E.g. HC license, Word 7, good communication skills).
Professional Documentation.
- Courtesy
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As well presented letter including correct grammar and spelling. Common courtesies.
- Self Confidence
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Give them a reason to want to interview you, a “grabber” that will make them want to read more and ideally meet you. Try to be individual, you will be competing with many others for the same position.
- To the Point
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Short and to the point. Keep to a maximum of one and a half pages.
- Request an Interview
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Request an interview at a mutually convenient time or write when is the best time to catch you. For example, if you work Monday and Tuesday, write this in the letter to increase the chances of the employer calling on Wednesday. Many times, we miss interviews because an employer will only try to catch you a maximum of three times.
The hardest part of job seeking is getting an interview, therefore the letter of application is extremely important. Do not lose sight of your objective, which is to prove to the reader that you are the best person to fill the needs of the employer. Follow up your application with a telephone call to check that they received your application. This is an opportunity for you to sell yourself. Be positive and bright on the telephone.
