In this short article, I hope to offer some valuable tips for those who are applying for jobs and need a convincing and winning letter of application. There are three essential things to consider when writing a letter for a job application: format, structure and language. The language aspect to letter-writing, in particular, unsettles many people and so this article will provide tips and useful expressions that can be used for successful letters.
The first tip is to always use positive language. Sentences should not contain words such as ‘no’, ‘not’ or ‘never’. Do not put, for example, ‘although I have no experience in ….’. You are trying to sell yourself and show how you are the right person for the job. You need to stress what you can do, not what you cannot do.
Secondly, always make sure you use assertive language that promotes you. Some examples of assertive phrasing include: ‘I am sure that I will be a valuable addition to the team at [name of company]’ or ‘my experience and qualifications are ideally suited for the position of [title of position]’. Phrases that are not assertive, such as ‘I think I will be a valuable addition’, suggest an element of doubt. The employer must have no doubts that you are the right person for the job.
Thirdly, try to use a wide range of vocabulary to make the letter read well. It is easy to list what your abilities are by stating, for example: ‘I have experience in operating a fork-lift truck. I also have experience in operating cranes’. A better way to formulate this would be to write ‘I have experience in writing … I also have developed my ability to … ‘. This will make your letter appear professional, and show that you have spent time and thought in making your application for the job.
A fourth tip is to try and make sure that you have matched all items in the job description with your own abilities. Try not to leave anything uncovered. If there are things in the description that you are not experienced in, try and think of something that is similar. For example, if you are applying for a job as a receptionist but have never done this before, you can mention how you have excellent communication skills and find it easy to talk to people face-to-face and on the phone. If you cannot match many of the skills required for the job then perhaps this is not the job for you.
A final tip is to show your enthusiasm with words such as ‘keen’, ‘delighted’, ‘excited’, ‘enthused’ and ‘look forward to’. For example, at the end of your letter you might include the following: ‘I would be delighted to be given the opportunity to work for…’ and ‘I look forward to discussing my application further with you’.
Other things to consider include keeping the letter formal, avoid text language or slang, and check your spelling and grammar. A poorly written letter will get discarded whatever the job. If you are writing a series of job applications, make sure you have the company’s name correct. This may seem obvious but can often get overlooked.