The Application Letter

An application letter is used when seeking a job position. Usually, there are two parts –
the cover letter and the resume. This type of letter may be solicited or unsolicited. Often, job
openings are advertised or announced in different platforms. The letter is considered to be
solicited if such positions in a company are available. In another case, trying one’s chances for a
job position in a company which did not ask for applications would require an unsolicited letter.

Guide in Writing an Application Letter

Opening Paragraph (Orientation)

If the letter is solicited:

1. State the job position you are pursuing.

2. Give the source of the job announcement and the date you knew about it.
3. If applicable, cite the name of the person who recommended the open position.

Kinds of Opening Paragraphs for a Solicited Letter

● Source Opening
In response to any job advertisement or announcement, determine the publication in which
the opening was listed, then include your qualifications for the position.
Example:
Your advertisement in the October 1 issue of Manila Bulletin for the position of ______
caught my attention because I believe that I am qualified for it.
● News Item Opening
Provide a background on an organization’s events such as new products, services to be
launched, or any of their recent achievements, and then use it to express your interest in a certain
position.
Example:
In the last month’s issue of the Women’s Magazine, I read an article about our intention
to open a Tarlac City branch office that will need two administrative assistants. Please consider
me as one of the applicants for this position.
● Personalized Opening
Mention relevant interests or current status to justify why you are suited for the position.
Example:
My interest is in people and the ways to elevate their financial status. To realize this
objective, I would want to apply for your financial analyst position.
● Creative Opening
In cases where creativity and specific qualities are needed for the job, show your
qualifications through vivid words.
Example:
Before there was imperialism. Today there is globalization. Tomorrow, there will be a
fusion of all isms. But, come what may, I am the same Brian Santos, possessing the following
qualifications for the position of credit lending officer.
If the letter is unsolicited:

Express your interest in applying should there be any vacant positions in a company.
Focus on the services you can provide.

Kinds of Opening Paragraphs for an Unsolicited Letter

● Summary Opening

State your strengths and vital qualifications.

Example:
I understand that a competent writer in your company must be interested in and
knowledgeable about varied topics. He must be an achiever and a learner eager to advance
professionally. On top of these, he must have the ability to write. Believing that I possess these
qualifications I should like to be considered for the job.

● Name Opening

Mention a person’s name and their role in suggesting for you to apply.
Example:
Dr. Josefina Barrera, your former UST professor, has informed me of an opening for an
English instructor in your university, I would like to be considered for the position.

● Question Opening

Write a question that aims to understand the company. Align it with their problem, goal, or
need, to show your interest in helping them.
Example:
Do you need a secretary who can speak Spanish, Japanese, and English fluently and who
has experienced working for a prestigious firm in Makati? If you do, I would like to be considered
for this position.
 Middle Paragraph (Information)

1. Indicate your qualifications.

2. Emphasize your educational background.
3. State and describe the job positions you handled, if any.
4. Cite your selling points.
Last Paragraph (Action)
1. Request for action.
2. Ask to be scheduled for an interview that would be convenient for the employer.
3. List all possible contact information for communication purposes.

The Resume
The resume is an enclosure of the application letter which summarizes your information as a job
applicant. Your resume is often the basis of your cover letter. There are different types of resumes
that could cater to your needs and qualifications as a job seeker.

The most common type is the chronological resume usually begins with listing your employment
history. The most recent position should be mentioned first following the reverse chronological
order. This is best for job applicants with strong work backgrounds.

Another type is the functional resume which emphasizes skills and experience. Those who aim
to change careers or who have gaps in their work experiences use this type.

In order to incorporate both, a combination resume would be more applicable by listing skills and
experiences first. After, it proceeds to elaborating the employment history.

Besides these mostly used types is the targeted resume which highlights your skills and
experiences necessary for the desired position. It takes more time to write because it must be
modified according to the specifics of the job vacancy.

In some situations, employers may prefer a brief summary of qualifications and career
highlights. A mini-resume can provide an overview of your achievements.

Parts of a Resume

❏ Career Objectives are considered to be optional but it describes your employment

goals.

Examples:
● To build a long-term career in [specific industry] with opportunities for career growth.
 ● To enhance my educational and professional skills in a stable and dynamic workplace.
● To solve problems in a creative and effective manner in a challenging position.

❏ Personal Data provides the employer with general details about the applicant.

● Name, address, telephone, and cellphone number.

● Date of birth, religion, civil status.
● Height and weight.
● Job or career objective.
● Summary of basic qualifications.

❏ Educational Background contains the academic experiences of the applicant usually

beginning with the most recent.

● Advanced schooling and training with school names and locations, dates
attended, degrees, and certificates.
● Major field, pertinent courses, academic honors, special skills, research, reports.

❏ Skills Section includes all of the abilities or qualities that are relevant to the job to which
you are applying. In writing this, be able to differentiate your skills from your traits and be
careful with what you include to avoid confusing or misleading the employer.

❏ Work Experience shows more of your qualifications like work habits and personality
which helps the employer evaluate your qualifications.

❏ Activities, Achievements, and Awards Section describes an applicant’s personality,

ability to work with others, leadership, and emotional quotient.

● Fellowships and scholarships

● Awards given by professional societies
● Recognition from civic groups
● School and community activities
● Other commendations and professional activities

❏ Seminars, Workshops, and Conferences Section includes events you have attended
that may be beneficial in the chosen field. Some details listed are the event’s name, the
date or duration, and the venue or location it was held.

❏ References can be optional or omitted. Some employers would request to have this list
for background check. There should be at least three respectable people listed.
 ● Former employers, former professors, or character references, whose names are
respected.
● Title or position held in the organization by the referred person.
Complete business address and telephone or fax number, and email of the