Why an Application Letter Matters When Submitting Your Resume
An application letter is a key part of your job application—it gives you a chance to expand on your qualifications and explain why you’re interested in the role. A strong, well-crafted letter can catch a hiring manager’s attention and boost your chances of landing an interview.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to write an effective application letter, along with a handy template and example to guide you.
What Is an Application Letter?
An application letter (also called a cover letter) is a document you send with your resume when applying for a job. It lets you go into more detail about your skills and experience than your resume or Indeed profile allows. Most importantly, it’s your opportunity to make a strong case for why you’re the right fit for the job.
While not always mandatory, including an application letter is highly recommended. It helps you build a persuasive argument for why you deserve an interview and can clarify details like employment gaps or career shifts that might raise questions.
Unlike a resume, which follows a strict format, an application letter gives you space to elaborate. Use it wisely to improve your odds of moving forward in the hiring process.
How to Write an Application Letter
Follow these steps to craft a compelling application letter:
1. Research the Company and Job Opening
Dig deep into the company and the role you’re applying for. The more you know, the better you can tailor your letter. Look for:
- Recent company awards
- Key achievements that set them apart
- Required (or preferred) skills and certifications
- Company size and culture
- Charitable initiatives they support
- The hiring manager’s name and title
2. Use a Professional Format
Your letter should follow a clean, professional structure. Include:
- Your name and contact details
- The date
- The company’s information
Start with a formal salutation like “Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],”—if you can’t find their name, “Dear [Department] Hiring Manager,” works too.
3. State the Position You’re Applying For
Open with a clear mention of the job you want, including the company name. If someone referred you, name-drop them here.
4. Explain Why You’re the Best Fit
In a couple of strong sentences, highlight what makes you the ideal candidate—focus on experience, skills, or education that align with the role.
5. Summarize Your Qualifications
Briefly outline your top qualifications, pulling key points from your resume. Since hiring managers read cover letters first, this is your chance to grab their attention.
6. Mention Why You Want the Job
After selling yourself, explain why you want this position. Share what excites you about the company and role.
7. Include a Professional Closing
Thank the reader for their time, reference your attached resume, and offer to provide more details if needed. End with “Sincerely,” and your name.
Application Letter Template
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager’s Name]
[Hiring Manager’s Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I’m excited to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company]. [Mention how you heard about the job, including referrals if applicable.] My [skills/qualifications] make me a great fit for this role.
[In the next paragraph, explain how you’d contribute to the company. Reference specific projects or campaigns if possible.]
[Summarize your top qualifications here, expanding on key achievements that didn’t fit in your resume.]
[Wrap up by sharing why you’re drawn to this company. Mention any attached documents and express enthusiasm for next steps.]
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
To upload this template into Google Docs, go to File > Open and select the downloaded file.
Read more: [How To Format a Cover Letter (With Tips and Examples)]
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Application Letter Example
Janiqua Williams
304 Town Ave.
Nashville, TN 37201
Jan. 8, 2023
Richard Sandler
Marketing Hiring Manager
Carter Snack Company
3049 Arthur St.
Nashville, TN 37201
Dear Mr. Sandler,
I’m writing to apply for the Marketing Associate role at Carter Snack Company. Nick Caudwell, your Sales Associate, referred me to this opportunity. With five years of experience in food and beverage marketing, I believe I’d be a great fit.
At Fizz Soda Company, I led multiple successful campaigns for new drink products. My market analysis skills helped pinpoint key demographics, leading to impactful results. For example, my 2019 campaign:
- Doubled product sales in three months.
- Featured a viral commercial with 10M+ views in a week.
- Gained 5,000+ new Facebook followers in a month.
I’d love to bring this level of success to Carter Snack Company, especially for your upcoming summer snack campaigns. I see huge potential in targeting younger audiences with your snack cakes and would enjoy discussing ideas with you.
I hold certifications in PCM Digital Marketing, Hootsuite Social Marketing, Google Analytics, and Facebook Planning. My expertise can help strengthen your digital presence and grow your social following.
While I’ve loved my time at Fizz Soda, I’m ready for a new challenge. The chance to help grow Carter Snack into an industry leader excites me—I’ve been a fan since Nick introduced me to your unique chip and pretzel flavors. I’d love to share new products like Sweet Dill pretzels with a wider audience.
Please find my resume attached. References are available upon request. I look forward to speaking with you soon.
Sincerely,
Janiqua Williams
