1. How to Write a Reader-Oriented Letter of Application
Presented by the UTA English Writing Center
Updated 6/10/2015 SPT

2. Hosted by English Writing Center www.uta.edu/owl
A Division of the Department of English
Sponsored by the College of Liberal Arts

3. Letters of Application
When the organization does not advertise job opportunities, send an unsolicited letter of application to an organization
Especially if you are particularly interesting in that specific organization
There are no obvious disadvantages; however, It’s important to keep in mind that they may not have any job opportunities available at the current time

4. Letter of Application/Cover Letter
If you are sending a resume, you must attach either a cover letter or letter of application
The difference between the two is a letter of application can be submitted on its own, while a cover letter needs a resume to be attached to
If your application is electronic, you may not need a cover letter.
Still, sending them a letter of application through is a great way to inform the employer more about you and your experience.

5. How to Start
Address it personally to the person most likely making the hiring decisions
Make sure it is addressed to a specific person with their name spelled correctly. Avoid using phrases like, “To whom it may concern”
The only exception is if the advertisement tells you to address it to the department or job title of person hiring
If you are unsure of whom to address it to, call the organization for the information or write an /letter to an executive, using that person’s name

6. How to Start
Once the reader is able to be addressed properly, appeal directly to his or her needs within the organization.
This means discussing any experience or education that relates to the job in the body of your paragraph
You will want to section your letter into the three parts shown in the following slides:

7. Three Sections of Your Letter
Introduction: the purpose for writing
Body paragraphs: discussing your qualifications in education and experience related to the desired position or organization as a whole
Conclusion: your goal and what you want from the employer

8. The Introduction
This is where you inform your reader on the reason for writing a letter of application
Important information to include in this paragraph:
The position you are applying for – This helps the reader fully understand your purpose and differentiate you from other applicants to different positions.
How you found out about the job – This gives the reader background on how you came to seek this position. Also, it informs the employer where their applicants are coming from, especially if you are writing an unsolicited letter

9. Qualifications
Once the introduction is completely and the employer knows why and how you are seeking out this position, begin discussing your experience and education
Important information to include in this paragraph:
The details on your resume, going through them in order as they appear on your resume. If your work experience is first, discuss it first and education second and vice versa.
Any left out information you wish to expand upon from your resume. However, avoid repeating information

10. Qualifications (cont.)
Explain how your work and school experience makes you uniquely qualified for the position – Even if you feel like your experience does not make you qualified, figure out aspects of it that might (ex. Problem solving, team building, or computer skills).

11. Conclusion
This paragraph clearly states to the employer what you are wanting from them
With the information given in the previous paragraphs, you have set yourself up to implore the reader for an interview
Important information to include in this paragraph:
Directing the employer’s attention to your resume
Your request for an interview
Any contact information you can provide to the employer – Be sure to let them know when your available to take phone calls

12. Style and Tone
Prevent writing in a tone that could come across apprehensive or arrogant – Instead, focusing on using positive words and phrasing, showing the reader that you are confident in your qualifications
Avoid putting focus on your weaknesses but do not be overly boastful about your strengths, either
While promoting your qualifications, also be sure to express your eagerness in learning the ins and outs of this new position

13. Be Specific
You want to make sure your point is coming across clearly and concisely in order to avoid any confusion
Be confident in your words and avoid words and phrases like “kind of,” “maybe,” and “sort of”
Say exactly what you mean and give all the important information, especially your contacts

14. Follow-Up Letters
This is an important part of the job application process, keeping the line of communication open between you and the employer
When and how to write a follow-up letter will depend on the following circumstances:

15. When to Follow-Up?
After three or four weeks of no response after submitting your letter of application to the employer
You will need to keep track of the dates you sent your letter of application to know when to send the follow-up
Be sure to politely remind the employer of your interest in the position and the letter of application you sent in
Following an interview
This is to thank the employer for taking the time to interview you and remind them of the position your interested in
If you were interviewed by multiple people either together or separately, be sure to send each of them a follow-up letter

16. When to Follow-Up?
Accepting the job – Confirm you will take the position and when you can begin working
If you decide you no longer want the job or wish to reject the job offer
Writing to the employer that you do not wish to have this position and explaining why, despite your previous interest, will keep you in good standing in case you wish to pursue the job on a later date
Do not just ignore any offer and cut all lines of communication

17. Helpful Videos
5 Steps to an Incredible Cover Letter
How to write an application letter
Application letters

18. Other useful Resources
For more information for writers got to our website at uta.edu/owl.
Click on our A-Z resources guide and search for help with your specific concerns.
Or, you can make an appointment with any of our talented and knowledgeable consultants at: uta.mywconline.com

19. Resources
All images taken from Yahoo.com images search/clipart at