What Is a Letter of Application and How to Write It
A well-crafted letter of application allows you to introduce yourself, highlight your strengths, and show employers why you’re the right fit, before they even open your CV.
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Crafting the perfect letter of application is one of the most important steps in any job search, but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. While your CV outlines your qualifications, your application letter brings your personality and purpose into focus. It’s your chance to make a lasting first impression before your CV is even read.
Whether you’re applying for your first role or your next big move, a clear, confident job application letter can help you stand out. This guide shows you how to write a letter of application that’s both personal and professional, designed not just to meet expectations, but to exceed them.
What is a letter of application?
Your application letter, also called a cover letter, is a written document showing why you’re the ideal candidate. It builds on your CV when applying for a job. So, before writing, be sure you understand what to include in a CV to make your application letter effective.
Unlike your CV, which outlines your career history, an application letter focuses on your motivation, suitability, and personality. It allows you to connect your experience to the role in a way that feels more human and persuasive.
What to include in a letter of application?
A simple job application letter should include:
- Your contact details
- The employer’s details
- A brief introduction
- Key achievements and an overview of skills
- A compelling reason for wanting the job
But to truly stand out, it needs to feel unique and be tailored to the role, company, and your personal career story.
Our intuitive tools make it easy to craft application letters that stand out. Whether you’re applying for your first role or aiming for a career-defining move. Use our expertly designed letter of application templates to personalise every detail and present yourself with confidence.
Job application letter examples
Reviewing application letter examples can offer clarity on structure, tone, and the kind of personalisation that sets a candidate apart. Whether you’re writing your first job application letter or refining one for a career change, review the samples below for guidance.
Simple letter of application sample—no experience
Charlotte Mason
charlotte.mason@email.com
07482 139 648
linkedin.com/in/charlottemason1234
Bristol, UK
18 May 2025
Andrew Colton
GreenLeaf Publishing
2 Park Square
Bristol BS1 5HU
Dear Mr Colton,
I’m writing to express my keen interest in the Editorial Assistant role at GreenLeaf Publishing. As a recent English Literature graduate from the University of Bristol, I’m eager to apply my strong writing, research, and organisational skills in a creative and purpose-driven publishing environment.
My academic background has provided me with a solid foundation to start work in this industry. I successfully led a student-led online literary magazine for two years, managing a team of contributors, editing submissions, and coordinating publication schedules. This experience sharpened my attention to detail and taught me how to manage collaborative projects under tight deadlines.
What draws me to GreenLeaf is your focus on publishing works that support environmental and social themes. I was particularly inspired by your recent release of Voices from the Forest, which aligns with my personal values and academic focus on nature writing. I’m excited by the idea of contributing to a team where stories can genuinely make an impact.
Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to learn more about the role and discuss how I can support your editorial team. I am available for interview at your convenience and can provide references and writing samples upon request.
Kind regards,
Charlotte Mason
Teaching letter of application sample
Elena Harris
elena.harris@email.com
07739 284 116
linkedin.com/in/elenaharris1234
Birmingham, UK
18 May 2025
Eliza Pierce
Riverside Academy
48 St John’s Way
Birmingham B5 7HU
Dear Ms Pierce,
After completing my degree in English Literature at the University of Bristol, I’ve been searching for a meaningful way to bring my passion for narrative and detail into a professional publishing setting. The Editorial Assistant role at GreenLeaf Publishing feels like the ideal environment to begin that journey, particularly within a company that values purpose-driven storytelling.
In my current role at Whitestone Primary, I lead a Year 5 class with a focus on cross-curricular literacy integration. My pupils have consistently exceeded progress expectations in both reading and writing, with 92% achieving at or above the expected standard in the last academic year. I’ve also coordinated the school’s eco-club, embedding sustainability into everyday learning and community engagement. These experiences reflect my belief in holistic education and the importance of fostering responsibility beyond the classroom.
In 2023, I successfully introduced a peer-mentoring programme that paired Year 5 pupils with younger learners to support reading fluency. The initiative led to a 15% improvement in lower KS2 reading scores and was adopted by the wider teaching team the following term.
What particularly draws me to Riverside Academy is your commitment to developing confident, curious learners through creative approaches. Your recent “Storytelling Across Subjects” initiative resonated with my own teaching philosophy, and I would be excited to contribute to its ongoing development.
Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how I can support your pupils’ academic and personal growth and contribute to your wider school community. I am available for interview at your convenience.
Kind regards,
Elena Harris
Letter of application sample—senior customer service representative
Nathan Cole
nathan.cole@email.com
07845 921 378
linkedin.com/in/nathancole1234
Manchester, UK
18 May 2025
Noah Smith
Beacon Connect Ltd.
42 Portland Street
Manchester M1 4QU
Dear Mr Smith,
Over six years in customer-facing roles have shaped my approach to service leadership—focused, data-informed, and consistently empathetic. The Senior Customer Service Representative position at Beacon Connect stood out to me as a space where I could apply my strengths to help scale a growing support team committed to quality.
In my current role at TriMark Telecom, I lead a team of six service representatives in managing high-volume enquiries across three channels. Over the past year, I introduced a live chat response framework that improved first-response times by 32% and contributed to a 14-point rise in our Net Promoter Score. I also take pride in maintaining a personal satisfaction rating of over 95%, even during peak service periods.
One of my key contributions in 2023 was co-leading a CRM optimisation project that cut average resolution time by nearly 25%. Working cross-functionally with IT and training, I helped redesign workflows and onboarded the full support team on the updated system.
What excites me about Beacon Connect is your emphasis on personalised, tech-enabled service—an approach I strongly align with. Your recent investment in AI-assisted support tools shows a real commitment to evolving the customer experience, and I’d be eager to bring both my people-first mindset and technical adaptability to your team.
Thank you for taking the time to review my application. I would welcome the opportunity to further discuss how my experience and leadership in customer service can support Beacon Connect’s growth. I’m available for interview at your convenience.
Kind regards,
Nathan Cole
Short application letter example
Amira Patel
amira.patel@email.com
07592 483 729
Manchester, UK
18 May 2025
Leah Hammer
Hope Community Kitchen
12 Brook Street
Manchester M4 1EE
Dear Ms Hammer,
Supporting communities through direct, hands-on work has always been a priority in my personal life. Hope Community Kitchen’s mission resonates deeply with my belief in food accessibility and dignity for all—values I’m eager to contribute to as a committed and flexible volunteer.
Though I do not have direct experience in food service, I’ve volunteered at several community clean-up events and am comfortable working in team settings under pressure. I’m reliable, friendly, and quick to adapt—qualities I believe align with your mission.
Thank you for considering my application. I’d be happy to help during weekday evenings or weekends and look forward to the opportunity to give back.
Kind regards,
Amira Patel
Letter of application template
[Your Full Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your LinkedIn Profile or Personal Website – optional]
[Your City, Postcode]
[Date – e.g. 18 May 2025]
[Hiring Manager’s Name or “Hiring Manager”]
[Company Name]
[Company Address Line 1]
[Company Address Line 2]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name or “Hiring Manager”],
With [X years] of experience in [industry or role], I’ve developed a strong foundation in [mention key skills or achievements]. The opportunity at [Company Name] immediately caught my attention, as it aligns with both my background in [relevant area] and my drive to contribute to an organisation focused on [specific goal, value, or mission relevant to the company].
In my most recent role at [Your Current or Most Recent Employer], I [brief description of responsibilities and key results—e.g. led social media campaigns, increased engagement by 30%]. I also developed [mention another skill or achievement relevant to the job description], which I believe would directly benefit your team.
What attracts me to [Company Name] is [mention something specific about the company—e.g. its culture, mission, recent project, or reputation in the industry]. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to apply my skills and passion in a setting that values [e.g. innovation, customer care, teamwork, growth].
Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the chance to further discuss how my experience and strengths align with the role. I am available for interview at your convenience.
Kind regards,
[Your Full Name]
If you’re ready to write an application letter for a specific job, check out our cover letter examples. You’ll find job-specific guides with tons of valuable tips that will help you create your perfect letter of application.
How to write an application letter for a job application
Crafting a successful letter of application is all about presenting a version of yourself that aligns perfectly with the role and employer. A great job application letter blends personal storytelling with professional rules.
Below, I’ll guide you step-by-step through how to write a covering letter that’s tailored, effective, and memorable. Whether you’re using one of our expertly designed templates or starting from scratch, each section can be customised to reflect your individual voice and aspirations.
1. Analyse the job posting and research the company
Every excellent letter of application starts with clarity. Before you write a single line, carefully read the job advert. Identify key qualifications, responsibilities, and the language used. These details give you clues about what the employer values most.
Then, go a step further: research the company’s mission, culture, and recent achievements. Tailoring your application letter to reflect their values makes your message more relevant and more likely to be remembered.
2. Use a professional covering letter header and greeting
Like your CV, your application letter should start with a clean, professional CV header. Include your full name, phone number, email, and LinkedIn profile if appropriate. Below that, add the date, the hiring manager’s name (if known), their title, and the company’s address.
For your greeting, always try to personalise. “Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name]” is ideal. If the name isn’t provided, use “Dear Hiring Team” or “Dear Hiring Manager”. Avoid cold and stiff greetings like the overused “To Whom It May Concern.”
Emma Clarkson
emma.clarkson@email.com
07911 243 768
linkedin.com/in/emmaclarkson1234
London, UK
18 May 2025
Hiring Manager
Lumira Creative
27 Phoenix Lane
London EC1A 2AY
Dear Hiring Manager,
3. Start with a personalised opening for your job application
The first paragraph of your job application letter should immediately communicate who you are and why you’re applying. Avoid clichés like “I’m writing to apply for…” Instead, make your opening engaging and specific.
“As a digital marketing specialist with over three years of experience and a strong focus on sustainability-driven campaigns, I was immediately drawn to the Marketing Coordinator role at Lumira Creative. Your commitment to blending creativity with social impact aligns perfectly with my professional values and career direction.”
This grabs attention, shows impact, and personalises your intent right away.
4. Highlight relevant experience and achievements
The body of your letter of application is where you show how your work experience matches the role. Focus on 1–2 key accomplishments that align with the job description. Use metrics, action words, and concise examples.
Rather than repeating your CV, use this space to explain how you achieved those results—and why they matter to the company you’re applying to.
“In my current role at EcoReach, I managed multi-channel campaigns that boosted organic traffic by 42% year-on-year. I also coordinated a product launch campaign that led to a 26% increase in customer acquisition within eight weeks. My hands-on experience with SEO tools like SEMrush and my ability to extract insight from campaign data would translate well to Lumira’s performance-driven approach.”
5. Show enthusiasm and cultural fit
This section goes beyond experience. Explain why you’re genuinely interested in this company and role. Mention specific projects, values, or goals of the organisation that resonate with you.
Showing that you’ve done your research and that you’re not just sending a generic letter of job application, can make your letter for job application more memorable and trustworthy.
“I’ve long admired Lumira’s commitment to environmental responsibility, particularly your recent ‘Clear the Air’ campaign for MyVita Water. It demonstrated not only strong messaging but a real sense of purpose. I’m drawn to workplaces that challenge the norm, and I believe my mix of creativity and data fluency aligns well with your values.”
6. Finish your job application letter with a call to action
Your closing paragraph should summarise your interest and invite further discussion. Thank the reader for their time and express openness to interview opportunities. Sign off with a professional closing such as “Kind regards” or “Sincerely,” followed by your name.
“Thank you for considering my application. I’d welcome the chance to discuss how I can support Lumira Creative’s upcoming initiatives and contribute to your growth. I’m available for interview at your convenience.
Kind regards,
Emma Clarkson”
Job application letter format and layout
When creating a professional letter of application, visual clarity and consistency are just as important as what you write. Using the proper application letter format reflects your attention to detail, reinforces your credibility, and ensures your application is easy to read.
Just follow these simple job application letter formatting rules:
- Font style: Use a clean, readable application letter font such as Calibri, Arial, Georgia, or Helvetica. Avoid decorative or script-style fonts that may distract or reduce legibility.
- Font size: Set body text at 11 or 12 pt. For your name or section headers, you may increase the size slightly (e.g. 13–15 pt) to establish hierarchy.
- Line spacing: Use 1.15 to 1.5 line spacing to make your content comfortable to read without appearing crowded or too spread out.
- Paragraph spacing: Add a full line of space between each paragraph. This helps visually separate sections and makes scanning easier.
- Margins: Use standard margins of 2 to 2.5 cm (0.75 to 1 inch) on all sides. This creates a clean, balanced layout with enough white space around the content.
- Text alignment: Keep all text left-aligned. Avoid centre or justified text, which can make documents harder to read and look less professional.
- Page length: An application letter’s length shouldn’t exceed a single A4 page. Short job application letters (around 250–400 words) show respect for the reader’s time and keep your points focused.
- File format: Always save your letter of application as a PDF unless otherwise requested. This preserves formatting across devices and ensures your document looks exactly as intended.
- Header consistency: Match the header of your application letter to the one used on your CV—same font, style, and spacing—for a cohesive, professional look.
And remember to always proofread your letter of application for a job. Every time you apply anywhere, you should strive for perfection. Grammatical errors and typos can do irreparable damage to your CV and job application letter.
With myPerfectCV, your application letter formatting is never left to chance. Our expertly designed templates handle the spacing, font, and layout, so you can focus on tailoring your message. Want premium visual impact with zero formatting guesswork? We’ve made it easy.
Key Takeaways
- A letter of application is essential – It introduces you to the employer, highlights your motivation, and provides context for your CV, helping you stand out in a competitive job market.
- Tailor your application letter to the role – Reference specific achievements, skills, and values that align with the job description and company culture to make a stronger, more relevant impression.
- Structure it professionally – Include your contact details, the employer’s information, and organise the letter into a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Keep the tone focused, confident, and job-specific.
- Format for clarity and impact – Use professional fonts like Calibri or Arial, keep to one A4 page, and ensure proper spacing and margin settings to maintain readability and a polished letter of application layout.
- Proofread before sending – Carefully check for spelling, grammar, and formatting errors. A well-edited letter reflects your attention to detail and reinforces your professionalism.
Mariusz Wawrzyniak
Content Writer
Mariusz is a career expert at MyPerfectCV who writes practical, research-based guides that help professionals from all industries craft impactful CVs, write compelling cover letters, and advance their careers.
*The names and logos of the companies referred to above are all trademarks of their respective holders. Unless specifically stated otherwise, such references are not intended to imply any affiliation or association with myperfectCV.