LETTER OF APPLICATION

 

Generally, follow the Block Style Letter with all parts beginning on the left margin.

 

The dateline usually begins 2-2 1/2 inches down with the return address above it.  Your name appears in the signature line so should not appear at the top of the letter with your address.

 

The inside address is 4 to 8 returns below the dateline.  These addresses are always written from specific to general--a courtesy title person's name is first as most specific and then working to the city and state, which are the most general.  Double space to the salutation.  Use the same courtesy title as in the inside address.  If you do not have the person's name, write to the position; such as, Dear Human Resource Manager.  With mixed punctuation a colon (:) follows the salutation; and a comma (,) follows the complimentary close.

 

The first paragraph should state the intent of your letter.  Do not "beat around the bush" by saying, "I am interested in applying..."  Just write, "I am applying for a .... position ....."  Be specific; include qualifications--summer position. 

 

Your second paragraph should justify their hiring you over any of the other applicants.  List your skills that others may not have.  Find your strengths; do not mention your weaknesses.  State any special areas of interest--word processing, stenographic, receptionist, or bookkeeping positions.  You could mention that more information is listed on the enclosed resume.

 

The final paragraph should end with positive action on your part.  DO NOT give them your address and phone number and ask them to call you.  They expect you to seek your position; you call for an appointment.  Do not say "...an appointment at your convenience."  They will never make an appointment that is not convenient for them.  DO NOT use the words "set up an appointment."  You "will call for an interview appointment."

 

Double space to the complimentary closing.  You could use Sincerely, Cordially, or Respectfully.

 

Use 4 or 5 returns as the area in which you will hand sign your name.  REMEMBER to sign your letter before mailing it.

 

Type your name.  If you choose to tell them of your marital status, you should indicate this before your name on the handwritten line--Mrs. Jane Doe.  If you wish, you can write Mr. before your name to indicate gender.

 

Double space to the Enclosure notation.  (Be sure you mentioned the enclosed resume in the body of your letter.)

 

Use quality bond paper--the same as your resume--and a laser printer.

 

The letter should be "you" oriented, NOT "I" oriented.  Only one paragraph should begin with I.  Each paragraph should begin with a different word.  Limit yourself to two "I's" to ensure you are writing to the reader.

                                                                             

                                                     LETTER OF APPLICATION

 You oriented.  Not from the writer's perspective but written to the reader telling what the reader will have if he or she hires the writer.  The two times you use "I" could be I am applying and I will call you for an interview appointment.  The letter should tell of the specific value to be added if the company hires the writer.

 

First Paragraph -- Use one of these  One sentence for first paragraph is good.

 

I am applying for a ________________ position in your ______________.

 

Have you a place in your organization for someone who is ....?

 

I am applying for the _________ opening in your office advertised in the _________________. 

 

I am applying for a ______ position in your _______.  Mr. _____________ told me of this opening.

 

Does your company need a motivated...? I am applying for a ________ position.

 

 

Second Paragraph  --  At least 3 sentences with more than one item in each

 

Your office could benefit from my skills of . . . ., my ability to  . . . .,

and my experience with . . . .

 

In this position you would find me . . . .

 

You would find my skills of. . . an asset to you.

 

 

Final Paragraph  Name specific action reader should take and specific action writer will take.

 

Please review the enclosed resume.  I will call (within a week, next week, etc.) for an interview appointment.

 

After you have reviewed the enclosed resume, I will call for an interview appointment.

 

. . .I will contact you for an interview appointment.

 

You will hear from me next week for an interview appointment.