Write a 350 - 400 word letter reflecting on how you will use what you learned in the attached documents.

I want the job. Thesis statement & set up points 1, 2, 3.

Topic sentence. Supporting evidence.

Topic sentence. Supporting evidence.

Topic sentence. Supporting evidence.

I request an interview. You may reach me at….

Basic Application Letter Construct 5 Paragraph Letter Format

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While there are multiple ways to approach writing an application letter, we focus on this construct and I expect your work to be in the 5 paragraph construct.

You need an introduction that states you want the job. You need a body that describes how you have the ‘things’ they require and conclude with asking for an interview and offering your contact information. The next three slides offer more details on the sections.

1

Introduction –

State you’re apply for the job

If possible state some-kind-of connection to the organization

State a summary sentence (thesis)

Spark interest. Create curiosity.

Audience-centered attitude

Application Letter Construct

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The introduction of an application letter is as important as all other first impressions. Remember, they are feeling you as they read, so create the experience through your words that you want them to have.

In the intro,

Be direct (remember that means telling upfront what you want – your purpose). State the job and your interest. Saying what you want in an assertive manner demonstrates confidence.

If you have a connection with that organization, talk about that, but be every-so-brief.

State a summary sentence – All communications need a thesis statement. And in that thesis statement inform the reader regarding specific focus – preview the 3 items you will detail in the body.

Create curiosity. Build their interest in you in the way you language.

Remember, once again, I tell you – be audience-centered. It’s about your contribution, not you.

Oh, and, this paragraph is NOT to be the longest one on the page. Typically it the second smallest with the conclusion being the smallest.

2

Application Letter Construct

Body

Choose your points by studying the advertisement and selecting the top three requirements. Write to how you have these three.

Be thinking:

How do I set myself apart?

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The key to getting called for an interview is in the connection you make in your letter. The winning strategy is to understand your potential employer’s top 3 qualification requirements and write to those items. Here’s how.

Study their advertisement. What requirement did they list first? That is a powerful indicator of what they see as most important. Second, look for the patterns…what did they say over and over in differing way. Study the solicitation until you can pick the organization’s top three requirements. These are the three item points or body points you will write to in your application letter. That is audience-centeredness.

I am here to tell you, know what they are looking for and demonstrate how you can deliver this requirement. That is a winning strategy. That is what will set you apart from the rest.

3

Conclusion

Ask for an interview. Give your contact information.

End on a positive, forward-looking note.

Application Letter Construct

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The Conclusion

It’s simple - ask for the interview and give your contact information. You want to make it easy for them to find you.

4

How to Write a Persuasive Application Letter

Business Communication, MGT309

University of North Carolina at Greensboro