Job Application Letter Template and Writing Tips

Are you ready to apply for a job? Not sure what to write in your letter of application? It can be much easier to start your letter with a template than to start a letter from scratch.

A template will show you all the information you need to include, and will provide the appropriate format for a job application letter. You can add your information and personalize the letter prior to applying for a job.

Do keep in mind that the job posting may list required information as part of the application process. If it does, be sure to follow the employer's guidelines for what to send or upload when you apply.

What to Include in a Job Application Letter

The following application letter template lists the information you need to include in the letter you submit with your resume when applying for a job. Use this application template as a guideline to create customized letters to send to employers with your resume.

Contact Information
The first section of your letter should include information on how the employer can contact you. If you have contact information for the employer, include that. Otherwise, just list your information.

Your Personal Information
FirstName LastName
Street Address
City, State Zip Code
Phone Number
Email Address

Date

Employer Contact Information
Name
Title
Company
Address
City, State Zip Code

Salutation
Here is information on appropriate salutations for in a cover letter. It is the most common salutation: 

Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name or Dear Hiring Manager:

Application Letter Content
Your application letter will let the employer know what position you are applying for, why the employer should select you for an interview, and how you will follow-up.

First Paragraph:
The first paragraph of your job application letter should include information on why you are writing. Mention the job you are applying for and where you found the position. If you have a contact at the company, mention the person's name and your connection here. 

Middle Paragraphs: 
The next section of your cover letter should describe what you have to offer the company:

• Make strong connections between your abilities and the requirements listed in the job posting. Mention specifically how your skills and experience match the job.
• Expand on the information in your resume, don't just repeat it.
• Try to support each statement you make with a piece of evidence.
• Use several shorter paragraphs or bullets rather than one large block of text, which can be difficult to read and absorb quickly.

Final Paragraph: 
Conclude your application letter by thanking the employer for considering you for the position. Include information on how you will follow up. State that you will do so and indicate when (one week's time is typical). You may want to reduce the time between sending out your resume and following up if you upload or email it.

Complimentary Close:

Sincerely,

Your Signature (hard copy letter)

Your full name typed out

Application Letter Template

This is an example of a job application letter. Download the job application letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

Application Letter Example

How to Email an Application Letter 

If you are emailing an application letter, instead of sending a hard copy, you will need to make a few minor tweaks to the template above. First, make sure to include an email subject line that is direct and informative.

Typically, the subject includes your name and the job title you are applying for. For example:

Skip including your personal information (address, contact information), the date, and the employer's contact information. Begin your email with the salutation. The body of the email—why you're writing, what you have to offer the company, and how you will follow up—will be precisely the same as in the template above. 

At the end of the letter, include a complimentary close, and then type out your full name on the line below. As well, you can include an email signature with your contact information and a link to your LinkedIn or Twitter account. Here is information on how to set up your email signature.