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Crafting a Compelling Job Application Letter

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Nyakundi Report

Newsroom 2 min read

This archive report was first published on 5 January 2022.

Published on January 5, 2022, a job application letter is a crucial document that accompanies your résumé, providing more details about your past experiences and qualifications for a particular specialisation.

Also known as a cover letter, this document explains why you think you are more qualified for the job, showcasing your skills and achievements.

To write a stellar job application letter, consider the following tips:

Getting Started

When crafting your application letter, remember that it's a delicate task that requires careful selection of words. A good cover letter creates an impression for the potential employer, so it's essential to summarize your qualifications in the resume.

Most Relevant Qualifications

Instead of listing all your job history, focus on the most recent and relevant qualifications that can help you pursue the post. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and achievements, such as being a team leader who solved a challenge and documented the process for review by your boss.

The Writing Format

When writing an application letter, follow certain principles to make a formal document. Hiring managers expect you to use a traditional font, such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri, with a font size between 10 and 12 points. Use about 1" margins and align your text to the left, which is the standard alignment for most documents.

Writing the Body

The body of the application letter should include the following parts:

  • The first paragraph should include a salutation, such as Mr/Mrs/Sir/Madam.
  • The second and third paragraphs should explain how you learned about the job offer and express gratitude if they consider you.
  • The sign-out message should be polite, such as
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