Job-Application Letters
Printed Page 659
A job-application letter (sometimes called a cover letter) is sent with a résumé when you apply for a job. The primary purpose of the job-application letter is to persuade your reader that you are a qualified candidate for employment and to introduce your résumé. For college students and recent graduates, most job-application letters (such as the one shown in Figure 22.5) consist of four paragraphs:
- Paragraph 1: Identify the position you are applying for and how you became aware of its availability. If you are not applying for a particular position, the first paragraph expresses your desire to work for the particular organization.
- Paragraph 2: Briefly describe your education, focusing on specific achievements, projects, and relevant coursework.
- Paragraph 3: Briefly describe your work experience, focusing on relevant responsibilities and accomplishments.
Note that paragraphs 2 and 3 should not merely restate what is in your résumé; rather, they should help persuade your reader that you are qualified for the job.
- Paragraph 4: Express your willingness to provide additional information and to be interviewed at the employer’s convenience.
FIGURE 22.5 A Sample Job-Application Letter