A short application letter, also known as a cover letter, is a brief document you submit alongside your resume when applying for a job. Its purpose is to introduce yourself, highlight your relevant skills and experience, and express your interest in the specific position and company. Unlike a lengthy cover letter, a short application letter gets straight to the point, demonstrating your ability to communicate concisely and effectively. This is especially important when applying to many jobs at once, and a short application letter can save the hiring manager time.
Crafting a compelling short application letter requires careful planning and attention to detail. Begin by thoroughly researching the company and the job description. Identify the key skills and qualifications they are seeking, and tailor your letter to demonstrate how you meet those requirements. Focus on your most relevant accomplishments and quantify them whenever possible. Keep your language professional and enthusiastic, and proofread carefully for any errors. Emphasize what you bring to the company rather than what the company brings to you.
Here are 11 short application letter samples to guide you. Remember to customize these templates to reflect your unique qualifications and the specific requirements of each job application. Tailoring each letter is critical for showing genuine interest and increasing your chances of getting an interview. Adapt the tone and content to match the company culture. Good luck!
Below are examples of short application letters, these are designed to be short and effective, ensure to tailor each one to your needs.
Sample Letter 1: Entry-Level Position
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name] (If you know it)
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
I am writing to express my keen interest in the [Job Title] position advertised on [Platform where you saw the ad]. As a recent graduate with a degree in [Your Degree] and a strong foundation in [Relevant Skill 1] and [Relevant Skill 2], I am eager to contribute to [Company Name]‘s success. I am confident that I can learn quickly and become a valuable asset to your team. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 2: Experienced Professional
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name] (If you know it)
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. With [Number] years of experience in [Industry], I have a proven track record of success in [Key Achievement 1] and [Key Achievement 2]. I am particularly drawn to [Company Name]‘s commitment to [Company Value or Initiative]. My resume provides further detail on my qualifications. Thank you for your time and consideration. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 3: Focusing on a Specific Skill
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name] (If you know it)
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
I am writing to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Platform where you saw the ad]. My extensive experience in [Specific Skill] makes me a strong candidate for this role. In my previous role at [Previous Company], I successfully [Quantifiable Achievement related to the skill]. I am eager to leverage my skills to contribute to [Company Name]‘s continued success.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 4: Highlighting Company Research
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name] (If you know it)
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
I am writing to express my strong interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I have been following [Company Name]‘s work in [Industry/Area] for some time and am particularly impressed by [Specific Company Achievement/Project]. My skills in [Relevant Skill 1] and [Relevant Skill 2] align perfectly with the requirements outlined in the job description. I believe I can make a significant contribution to your team.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 5: Referral
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name] (If you know it)
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
I am writing to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I was referred to this opportunity by [Referral Name], who spoke highly of your company and the work being done in [Department/Area]. With my experience in [Relevant Skill 1] and [Relevant Skill 2], I am confident I can contribute meaningfully to your team. My resume is attached for your review. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 6: Career Change
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name] (If you know it)
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. While my background is primarily in [Previous Industry], I am eager to transition my skills and experience to the [Target Industry] field. My transferable skills in [Transferable Skill 1] and [Transferable Skill 2], coupled with my passion for [Area of Interest], make me a strong candidate. I am a quick learner and highly motivated to succeed in this new role. I am confident that I can make a significant contribution to your team.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 7: Internships
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name] (If you know it)
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] Internship position at [Company Name]. As a student currently studying [Major] at [University], I am eager to gain practical experience in the [Industry] field. I am particularly interested in [Specific area of the industry], and I believe this internship would provide me with invaluable learning opportunities. I am a hard worker, quick learner, and eager to contribute to your team.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 8: Direct Application
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name] (If you know it)
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
I am writing to express my strong interest in opportunities at [Company Name]. I have been consistently impressed by [Company Name]’s work in [Industry], specifically [Specific project or initiative]. With my experience in [Skill 1] and [Skill 2], I am confident I can add value to your team. I have attached my resume for your review and welcome the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your company’s success.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 9: Follow-Up After Networking
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name] (If you know it)
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
It was a pleasure speaking with you at [Event/Meeting] on [Date] about opportunities at [Company Name]. Our discussion about [Topic Discussed] was particularly insightful. I am writing to formally express my interest in the [Job Title or type of role] position. My experience in [Skill 1] and [Skill 2], aligns well with your company’s needs. Thank you again for your time. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 10: Addressing a Specific Problem
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name] (If you know it)
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
I am writing to express my interest in addressing [Specific Problem the Company is Facing – if known from public sources] at [Company Name], as it relates to the [Job Title or Department] role. My experience in [Skill 1] and [Skill 2] has allowed me to successfully resolve similar challenges at [Previous Company] by [Action Taken & Result]. I am confident I can replicate this success at your company. My resume, detailing my qualifications, is attached. Thank you.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 11: Applying to a Startup
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name] (If you know it)
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
I am excited to apply for a role at [Company Name]. As an early-stage company in [Industry], I am impressed by your mission to [State Company Mission Briefly]. I thrive in fast-paced environments and possess the adaptability and [Skill 1] needed to contribute to your growing team. My resume highlights relevant experience, including [Brief example]. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can help [Company Name] achieve its goals.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
In conclusion, crafting a concise and compelling short application letter is crucial for making a positive first impression. By tailoring each letter to the specific job requirements and company culture, you can significantly increase your chances of landing an interview. Remember to highlight your most relevant skills and accomplishments, quantify your achievements whenever possible, and proofread carefully for any errors. Use these 11 samples as a starting point, but always personalize your letters to showcase your unique value and enthusiasm.
