how to write an application letter kenya

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How To Write Job Application Letter Sample For Any Position

It has become increasingly necessary for job seekers to submit an application letter alongside their resume during the job application process . 

But why is this so important? 

First, attaching an application letter helps to set you apart from other applicants and research has shown that about half of recruiters reject job applications without application letters. 

So if you're currently job hunting and want to increase your chances of having your resume read and landing an interview, then you need to learn how to write the perfect job application letter. 

Now we understand that writing application letters every single time you're applying for a new post can be exhausting. Some of these job openings have a really short application window, leaving you with little to no time to craft out something good from scratch.  That is why we have created the perfect job application letter template for any position with a sample you can swipe in a minute. 

What Is An Application Letter?

An application letter is a document that can either be attached to your resume, sent in the body of an email or sent as a standalone document to a potential employer, with the sole purpose of expressing your interest in an open job position. 

A well-written application letter should give the reader a good reason why you should be called in for an interview and must also highlight key skills and qualifications that make you a great fit for the role being advertised.

Aside from showcasing your job-worthy qualifications, an application letter is a great way of showing your personality and familiarity with the company you're applying to. Feel free to mention your professional goals and aspirations and how they align with the company goals. 

What Is The Format Of A Job Application Letter?

When writing a job application letter, you are expected to follow a business letter format. There's also a slight difference when formatting depending on the medium through which it will be sent. 

Here are three easy steps on how to format a job application letter

Use a professional format- you must keep your application letter professional and precise. This means that your document must include single line spacing, one-inch margins and left alignment. Avoid using fancy fonts and stick to more traditional ones like Times New Roman, Arial or Calibri.  Your font size should be between 10 to 12 points and keep the letter one page long. 

Create the heading- use a formal business letter heading if you are submitting a hard copy application. This includes your name and contact information, the date, company name and address. Example of the header:

[Your name]

[Your City]

[Your phone number]

[ Your email address]

[Name of hiring manager]

[Title of hiring manager]

[Company name]

[Company address]

Including your contact information, makes it easy for the hiring manager to follow up with you regarding the job. 

The major difference between formatting a hardcopy application letter and an email is in the heading. For an email, you'll need to include a catchy subject line that clearly states your purpose for writing. This will determine if your email gets opened and is read. A simple email application subject line would be "Videographer - Michael Williams". And unlike in a hardcopy version where your contact information is written at the top of the letter, with email, you can place it below your signature.  

Address the letter to the hiring manager-  Find out the name of the person in charge and address the letter to this person using a common business greeting like Dear Mr/Mrs and their Last Name. If you don't know their gender and which pronouns to use, you can write your greeting as "Dear First and Last Name". And if you're unable to find their names, a simple "Dear Hiring manager will work just fine.

Best Tips For Writing An Application Letter

When writing an application letter, make sure to incorporate the following tips to increase the effectiveness of your letter.

1 . Always send an application letter 

You should always send an application letter with your resume for every job you're applying for unless the job ad specifically says not to send one. An application letter helps the employer to learn more about you than they would have from reading just your resume and it also sets you apart from other applicants.

2 . Use keywords

Most job postings will include skills and abilities that they expect candidates to possess. Review the job posting to find out these keywords and incorporate them into your application letter to show the employer that you're a good fit for the role.

3 . Emphasize your skills and abilities

While your resume contains information on your skills and qualifications, an application letter offers your more room to sell yourself as the best candidate for that position. Instead of just listing your skills and accomplishments, give specific examples of how you applied your skills and abilities to situations that benefited the organisation. 

For example  instead of saying "I managed website content for ABC for 2 years" you can say " I created a content calendar consisting of four SEO-optimized articles per week for ABC's website which saw a 50% increase in organic traffic within 3 months"

4. Keep it brief

While sharing your skills and accomplishments, don't forget to only mention the important stuff and keep it short. Your application letter should be a page long, so focus on mentioning only those things that relate to the position you're applying for.

5. Proofread the letter

Don't be in such a hurry to write and submit your application letter without proofreading and editing. Maintain your professional approach by making sure that your letter is error-free. Check for spelling mistakes, punctuations and proper spacing before you click the send button. 

What To Say In A Job Application Letter

If you find yourself struggling with what to say in your application letter, you're not alone. Here are the key things to mention in your application letter.

1 . Express your interest

In the first paragraph of your letter, you're expected to express your interest in the role being advertised. Make sure to convey your enthusiasm through your words. The hiring manager should be able to tell from the tone of the letter that you're excited about working with them and that this is not just another routine letter that you're sending to every other company.  

❌  "In response to your job ad for a Graphic designer, I would like to indicate my interest in the position" 

✔️ "As a lifelong enthusiast of ABC's marketing initiatives, I was thrilled to see your posting for the position of a Graphics designer in your marketing team".

2.  List your experience and qualifications

Right after you have shown interest in the job being advertised, mention your skills, experience and qualifications in a way that aligns with the company's mission and goals.  For example, if the role you're applying for is in the financial sector, you can emphasize how you have worked within the accounting department at your previous job.

3. Mention your best personality traits

While maintaining a professional approach,  don't forget to mention your best personality traits that show your potential employer that you're friendly and easy-going. If the job requires you to work with a team, you can explain how you value community spirit.

4. Express appreciation

Before your sign off your letter, remember to appreciate the hiring manager for taking out time to read what you have written. 

5. Close the letter

 Avoid focusing on how much you need the job and instead place emphasis on what you have to offer. Also, avoid repeating cliche phrases like " thanks for your time and consideration" instead close with a promise. A simple way to go about this is to tell the hiring manager that you're looking forward to an interview with them so you can discuss how your knowledge and experience can help them achieve the company's future goals. 

To sign off, instead of using "Sincerely" you can replace it with other synonyms like " Best regards", or "Respectfully yours".

6. Add a postscript

All of the above are must-haves in your application letter but this last one is optional. Adding a postscript is a special trick that some people use. The postscript P.S screams "important information that you cannot miss" it draws the reader's attention and leaves them wanting more, hence earning you at least a callback or an interview. You can use this to tell the hiring manager something impressive about your career and say that you'd like to share more details if they are interested. 

How To Send A Job Application Letter

There are three ways you can send your application letter, you either submit it through the company’s recruitment portal or via email or a hardcopy alongside your resume in an envelope to the physical address of the company.

Since most companies now digitize their application processes, sending a job application letter through email has become the most popular option. When sending via email, make sure to use a subject line that contains your name and the position you're applying for.

Job Application Letter  Template

Contact Information (if you are submitting a hard copy. Not necessary for online applications)

City, State

Phone Number

Email address

Employer's Contact Information (if you are submitting a hard copy. Not necessary for online applications)

City, state

Dear Mr/Ms Last Name or Dear Hiring manager (if you don't have the name of the person in charge)

Body of Application Letter

The body of your application letter is where you show your interest in the job, the position you're applying for, and mention solid reasons why the employer should grant you an interview. It should include about three to four paragraphs and not be more than one page long.

First Paragraph - mention where you saw the job posting, include the name of a mutual contact where applicable, and express your interest in the position

Middle Paragraph- this paragraph can be broken down into two, and for easy comprehension, you can use bullet points to state and explain your experiences and accomplishments.

Final Paragraph- thank the hiring manager for reviewing your letter and including follow-up information.

Sincerely, Best regards

Your Signature (for hardcopy)

Job Application Letter Example 

Cassandra Ejiro (if you are submitting a hard copy. Not necessary for online applications)

17 DLA Road

Asaba, Delta State

08145633323

[email protected]

21 July 2022 (if you are submitting a hard copy. Not necessary for online applications)

Hezekiah Obi

Human resource manager

Vienna Int'l Hotel

Warri, Delta State

Dear Mr Obi, 

I was thrilled when I came across your job ad for the post of a social media manager on MyJobMag and I decided to give it my best shot.

Looking at your company's ongoing project to launch new community bus terminals, it is obvious that a social media campaign would be a great way to create awareness for the brand, attract potential sponsors and connect with your customers at the grassroots level. I believe I have just what you need to bring this campaign to life.

I've worked as a content manager at New Media group where I had the responsibility of overseeing research, writing, editing and publishing of the company's blog posts. I was also in charge of handling three social media accounts, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram which I successfully grew to above 5000 active followers on each platform within 3 months of consistent posting. 

I also have:

Expertise in WordPress, Facebook and Instagram ads

Basic graphic design skills like creating simple picture graphics and slides best for Instagram posts

Feel free to reach out to me at your convenience to discuss your company's goals and needs in the coming year. You can reach me on 0912345678.

Best regards

Cassandra Ejiro

PS: I would love the opportunity to show you how I generated new customer leads from the comments section of the New Media Twitter handle in just a month, using my 30-day content creation calendar. 

Now that we know how to write an application letter, it is time to start applying for the right job vacancies in Kenya .

Staff Writer

48 comment(s).

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informative 

atleast have learnt why employers never resond to my applications.. now i have learnt.  THANKS

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I am now confident to apply for jobs.

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Free Sample Application Letter To Use In Kenya

Choose your goal below:

By Michelle Wanjiku An application letter or cover letter is the most important part of your job search and as such it needs to be done well and in an attractive manner. The application letter is the first thing an employer looks at and if you do not convey why you deserve the job properly then they won’t even look at your CV.

Here are a few things to help you when writing an Application Letter

1. Tailor it to your industry Whenever you write a cover letter it is important to remember to tailor it to the industry you want to work in. For example if the job is a Human Resource position then there is no point in you mentioning your sales experience. This is because the cover letter is supposed to show how you are qualified for the position which means you only need to put experience relevant to the position you are applying for. The rest can appear on your CV 2. Address the Hiring Manager Your application letter should be addressed to the hiring manager. If you can find out his/her name and use that in the salutation. This goes a long way in showing that you were truly interested in the position and took time to do some research especially if the name was not indicated in the job advert. Related: 5 Deadly Cover Letter Mistakes You Have Been Making 3. Keep it short It is important to keep in mind that the recruiter has to go through a lot of applications therefore if you want yours read it should be brief and clear. There is no point in writing two pages or even more than six paragraphs. The shorter and clear it is the better. 4. Be passionate When writing an application letter it is important that you show that you truly are interested in the position and working for the company. This will help impress the recruiter and better your chances of getting an interview. No one wants to hire someone with no real interest in what they do. Related:   Sample Cover Letter for Unadvertised Job Below is a sample cover letter for graduate trainee accountant jobs. Graduate Job Seeker, P.O. Box 10678- 0100 Nairobi, 5th January, 2016. The Human Resource Manager, ABC Company, Box 34567– 00100, Nairobi. Dear Waithaka, RE: APPLICATION FOR GRADUATE TRAINEE ACCOUNTANT POSITION I am writing to express my interest in the position of accountant graduate trainee as advertised in STU newspaper. I recently graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce – Accounting and Finance from Kenyatta University and have a CPA 4 qualification. I am particularly attracted to your firm because your graduate training programme will help me gain hands on experience in the banking industry. During my time as a student I have had part-time jobs and an internship, all of which have given me a chance to work as part of a team and meet deadlines. Working at FGH company gave me a chance to inspire and motivate others while at the same time invest in my integrity and accountability skills. In addition to my formal education, I grasp fresh concepts quickly and can easily adapt to new changes. My first-rate communication skills will assist me in building a professional network of clients and colleagues. I have also learnt to give positive feedback, and to use it to set my own personal goals for self-improvement I welcome the challenge of working with you in a bid to build on my professional skills while upholding your dedication to exceptional customer service delivery. I would appreciate an opportunity to discuss my interest further with you. You can reach me at 07XX 123456 if you need further information and clarification. Sincerely, (Signature) Graduate Job Seeker If you would like to have your Application Letter or CV written professionally visit Corporate Staffing Services .

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 A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Write a Cover Letter in Kenya

• Modified On November 19, 2024
• 15 minutes read
• Home | Blog | Cover letter |  A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Write a Cover...

Learn how to write a cover letter in Kenya to boost your job application success.

Key Steps:  Start by addressing the hiring manager personally, introduce yourself and the position you’re applying for, and highlight your relevant skills and achievements.

Importance : Covering letters complement CVs by providing a more personal introduction and detailing how you can add value to the company.

Tools and Tips:  Use tools like  Grammarly  and  Hemingway  for proofreading. Consider using a cover letter template to guide your drafting process.

From Good to Great: Transform Your Kenyan Cover Letter Today

The key to landing your dream job is an outstanding cover letter, but most people don’t know that. Most people think a loaded CV or resume is enough to do the trick.

What they fail to realise is that a CV or resume only goes halfway. A cover letter then meets it halfway to create the magic.

After weeks of job-hunting, perfecting your resume, and preparing for interviews, you find that you must write a cover letter before calling it a day. Now you are staring at a blank page on your screen and wondering how to even begin.

We understand and we are here to tell you that writing a cover letter is not as hard as it seems. Yes, you could use  cover letter-generating AIs  to do the work. However, it doesn’t mean you can’t do it on your own.

In this article, we will show you an easy-to-follow and step-by-step approach to creating a  compelling cover  letter that aligns with hiring trends.

How to Write A Cover Letter in Kenya Professionally

Cover letters should be quick and tailored to the job market. Here are some quick tips for writing a great cover letter in Kenya:

Make it concise. Keep it to one page and around 250-350 words.

Address the letter correctly and use the hiring manager’s name when you can.

Introduce yourself and mention the position you’re applying for.

State where you found the advert and express your interest in the position.

The skills and experience you include must be relevant to the position and summarised.

Explain how you can contribute to the company and (briefly) discuss your  30-60-90-Day Plan  (optional).

Showcase your (relevant) accomplishments.

Proofread for typos or grammar errors (Use free  Grammarly  and  Hemingway  apps to improve readability).

You will find more details as you read the body article.

Key Takeaways

A cover letter is like a sales pitch or ad copy.

A cover letter completes your job application by showing who you are beyond the bullet points.

When writing a cover letter, you must make it concise and direct, address the letter correctly, introduce yourself, show relevant accomplishments, explain how you will add value, and proofread.

Anyone can write a good cover letter, whether you are a recent graduate, a young professional, or a mid-career professional.

Use a  template  when writing your cover letter for guidance.

Why A Cover Letter Is Important? Understanding the Cover Letter

A cover letter or job application letter is important because it is your sales pitch. It is your ad copy that helps recruiters gauge whether or not you are a good fit.

Like a sales pitch or ad copy, a cover letter tells recruiters who you are beyond the bullet points.

If you check the definition of a cover letter, you will find that it is a document that provides additional information about your skills, experiences, and accomplishments.

It is a document (you submit together with your CV) that introduces you by briefly summarising your professional background.

Your cover letter is meant to convince the recruiter that you are a good candidate worth interviewing. It adds focus to your CV and increases the chances of getting an interview.

Use a Proper Heading and Role Title

Your heading is the first thing employers see, so ensure it makes a good impression by making it professional and organised.

Start your heading with your full name, P.O. box number, city, postal code, and contact information (phone number and email address) at the top.

Write the date below your contact information.

Use a professional format to write the name of the hiring manager (if available), company name, P.O. box number, city, postal code, and email.

Jane Mwangi Finance Assistant +254 712 345678 [email protected] P.O. Box 12345 Nairobi, 00100 Kenya 23rd October 2024 Human Resource Manager ABC Company P.O. Box 67890 Nairobi, 00200 Kenya

Address it to a Person (The Hiring Manager Directly)

A personalised greeting makes your cover letter more genuine and thoughtful. Whenever possible, use the name of the hiring manager. You can find the hiring manager’s name by searching the company’s website or LinkedIn page.

Instead of saying sir/madam, send it to the recruiter directly. If you know the name, use it. For example, “Dear Mr Kamau.”

Avoid using a generic greeting like “Dear Hiring Manager,” or “Dear Hiring Team” if you don’t know the hiring manager’s name. In that case, don’t add a salutation. Move straight to the caption (e.g.,  C# Developer Vacancy (Ref #RT4758 )

Make Your Introduction Strong

Your introduction should grab the employer’s attention and explain why you’re a great fit in a matter of seconds. State why you are writing to them and mention where the job was advertised. This is your chance to make a memorable first impression.

For example:

When I came across the Sales Executive position at ABC Company on [specify job platform, e.g., Brighter Monday], I knew it was an excellent opportunity for someone like me who is passionate about driving sales and building client relationships.

Outline Relevant Experiences Only

This is the main body of your letter. Talk about your professional experience and skills as it relates to the position. Mention specific  achievements  that demonstrate your abilities.

Use metrics if possible. Quantifying your achievements makes them more impactful and adds more context. For instance, “Increased sales by 20% within six months.”

This part of your cover letter should be clear and relevant to the job requirements. Two or three paragraphs are enough to get your message across.

In my previous role at XYZ Ltd, I successfully managed a portfolio of 50+ clients and achieved a 95% client retention rate. My ability to connect with customers and understand their needs helped me exceed sales targets by 20% annually.

Explain Why You’re a Good Fit For The Organisation

Start by briefly stating why you’re excited to work for the organisation. Then, explain how your work experience, capabilities, and achievements make you a perfect fit for the company. Talk about how you can add value to the company’s goals.

To make this part solid, mention (specific) company values and goals and how they align with yours. This shows that you made the effort to understand the company.

An example:

I admire ABC Company’s dedication to sustainability and community support, values I share deeply. I am eager to bring my expertise in sales and customer service to your team and prioritise social responsibility.

Close with a Strong Conclusion

In your closing, be polite but confident. Briefly summarise your interest and invite the employer to contact you for an  interview .

Thank the hiring manager for their consideration and for taking the time to read through your application. Invite further conversation by mentioning that you look forward to discussing your application in an interview.

Your closing remark should be either “yours sincerely” or “yours faithfully”. Then place your signature and full name below.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my experience and skills can benefit ABC Company. Please feel free to contact me at your convenience.

Yours sincerely,

[Signature]

Jane Mwangi

Watch this video for more tips on how to write good covering letters in Kenya in 2025:

Best Practices for Cover Letters

• Keep your cover letter concise and focused on the role. A cover letter should be at most one page and provide relevant information only.
• It should be clear and demonstrate your skills, attitude, and expertise for the role.
• Use a professional tone and format.
• Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and experience.
• Highlight your achievements and qualifications.
• Use a professional closing (e.g., Kind regards) and sign your name.
• Include your contact information and a clear call to action, such as requesting an interview.
• Proofread your letter.

4 Sample Cover Letter Templates to Inspire Yours

Are you looking for templates to spark ideas and help you craft your standout cover letter? Here are four cover letter templates you can use.

Cover Letter Examples For Graduates and Young Professionals

For graduates and young professionals, here are sample cover letters to help you create a strong first impression.

Example 1 ( Download Word version – Free Cover Letter Example for Job Seekers in Kenya)

Why this cover letter stands out:

Rather than stressing hard skills and qualifications (which are outlined in the resume), Kipchirchir emphasises a genuine commitment to the clients served and the mission of this organisation. The letter closes with a P.S. that highlights even more value.

Example 2 ( Download Word version )

Key Strengths of This Cover Letter:

Kimani makes an immediate connection with Ms. Chebet by sharing his philosophy about website design—a business that greatly intersects with the job posting. The letter includes specific skills, certifications, and experiences that relate directly to the position as described in the advert.

Cover Letter Examples For Mid-Career Professionals)

Here’s how to write a powerful cover letter that highlights your experience, skills, and the unique value you bring as a mid-career professional.

Example 3 ( Download Word version )

What makes this cover letter exceptional:

Despite being relatively lengthy, this letter is well-designed to make it readable, and the relevant content is sure to engage the reader. The heading graphic is distinctive and perfect for a kindergarten teacher.

Example 4 ( Download Word version )

Reasons This Cover Letter Excels:

Ochieng’s cover letter is well-designed to reflect her professional experience and unique qualifications, effectively highlighting her skills and experiences relevant to the position she is applying for.

Finalising Your Job Application

Reiterate your interest in the position and mention your desire to discuss your application in more detail.

Thank the employer for considering your application and express your commitment to the role.

Mention your availability for an interview at your earliest convenience.

Make sure to proofread your cover letter and job application letter carefully before submitting.

Before you send your letter (E-note can be via email), ensure you include all the documents the advertiser requires.

If you’re using an E-note, create a fresh free account for your application purposes. Then paste your message in the email body and send.

Like this post?

My Last Advice :  Please,   Pay Closer Attention

We are finally at the finish line! Congratulations champion!

If you’ve come this far, you’re dead serious about changing the narrative in your favour. Hunting for jobs can feel like a game of chance, but with the knowledge from this article, it doesn’t have to be that way for you.

You’ve already done good work reading the tips outlined in this article. You only have to implement them right now. You cannot read this article and leave empty-handed. Start honing your cover letter game now, and recruiters will be knocking in no time.

We believe in you and we know the stuff you’re made of. So, go out there and show them!

FURTHER READING

HOW TO WRITE A CV

SPECIALIST INSIGHTS

Improve your CV by tailoring content and using a professional format. Include action words and quantifiable successes. Ensure it passes ATS checks with relevant keywords.

• Wendy Enelow and Louise Kursmark (2017).  Modernize Your Job Search Letters Get, Noticed… Get Hired . Emerald Career Publishing, USA.
• Opportunities For Young Kenyans (2024): How To Write A Job Application Letter In 2024

• Posted by Ita J John

How to Write a Cover Letter in South Africa: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

The Ultimate Guide: How to Write a Cover Letter in Nigeria

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How To Write an Effective Job Application Letter (With Examples)

In the competitive job market, your job application letter (or cover letter) is often your first opportunity to make a great impression on potential employers. Whether you’re applying for jobs in Kenya, jobs in Nairobi, or remote positions, an effective job application letter can set you apart from other candidates. Here’s a comprehensive guide to writing a job application letter that stands out.

Understanding the Purpose of a Job Application Letter

A job application letter serves as a personal introduction to your prospective employer. It should complement your resume by highlighting your relevant skills, experiences, and the value you can bring to the company. Your goal is to convince the employer to invite you for an interview.

Structure of a Job Application Letter

• Your Contact Information : Include your name, address, phone number, and email at the top of the letter.
• Date : Write the date you are sending the letter.
• Employer’s Contact Information : Include the hiring manager’s name, company name, and company address.
• Greet the Hiring Manager : Use a formal greeting such as “Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name]”. If you don’t know the hiring manager’s name, use “Dear Hiring Manager”.
• State the Position : Begin by stating the position you are applying for and where you found the job listing.
• Express Enthusiasm : Show your enthusiasm for the role and the company.
• Highlight Relevant Experience : Discuss your most relevant work experiences and skills. Use specific examples to demonstrate your qualifications.
• Align with Company Needs : Explain how your skills and experiences make you a perfect fit for the company’s needs. Show that you understand the company’s goals and culture.
• Quantify Achievements : Whenever possible, quantify your achievements with numbers and metrics to provide concrete evidence of your capabilities.
• Restate Your Interest : Reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and the company.
• Call to Action : Politely request an interview or a meeting to discuss your application further.
• Thank the Reader : Thank the hiring manager for considering your application.
• Formal Closing : Use a professional closing such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards”.
• Signature : Sign your name if submitting a hard copy. For an email, simply type your name.

Tips for Writing an Effective Job Application Letter

• Customize for Each Job : Tailor your letter for each job application. Highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the specific role.
• Use Keywords : Incorporate keywords from the job description to show that you are a good match for the role.
• Keep It Brief : Aim for one page in length. Be concise and to the point.
• Focus on Relevance : Stick to experiences and skills that are directly relevant to the job.
• Be Authentic : Let your personality shine through while maintaining a professional tone.
• Express Enthusiasm : Show genuine interest and excitement about the opportunity.
• Check for Errors : Proofread your letter for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. An error-free letter shows attention to detail.
• Seek Feedback : Ask a friend or mentor to review your letter and provide feedback.
• Standard Business Letter Format : Use a standard business letter format with clear headings and paragraphs.
• Professional Font and Size : Use a professional font such as Arial or Times New Roman, and keep the font size between 10 and 12 points.

Sample Job Application Letter

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, Zip Code] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address] [Date]

[Employer’s Name] [Company Name] [Company Address] [City, State, Zip Code]

Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name] as advertised on [Job Board/Company Website]. With my background in [relevant field or industry] and [number] years of experience, I am confident in my ability to contribute effectively to your team.

In my previous role at [Previous Company], I successfully [describe a relevant achievement or responsibility]. This experience has equipped me with [specific skills or knowledge], which align well with the requirements of the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I am particularly drawn to [Company Name] because of [specific reason related to the company’s mission, values, or projects].

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my unique skills to [Company Name] and help achieve its goals. I would welcome the chance to discuss my application further and demonstrate how my background, skills, and enthusiasm align with the needs of your team. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your esteemed company.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

A well-crafted job application letter can make a significant difference in your job search. By following these guidelines and tailoring your letter for each application, you can present yourself as a strong candidate and increase your chances of securing an interview. Whether you’re applying for jobs in Kenya, jobs in Nairobi, or remote positions, your job application letter is your opportunity to make a great first impression.

For more job search tips and to explore job listings, visit workexchange.co.ke .

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How to write an application letter for employment

An application letter also known as a cover letter is a document accompanied by the curriculum vitae when applying for a job. Your CV contains your skills, experience and education background in detail while your application letter for employment highlights the requirements you have for your desired job. This article will guide you on how to write an application letter for a job vacancy. Read on to know more.

Writing an application letter requires some skills. Everything has to be professional. Your potential employer will want to see your abilities and talents in your application letter before seeing what you can present. The first rule of writing an application letter is that it should be concise and to the point. Employers do not have time for long letters as they are probably vetting more candidates. Check out job application letter examples and writing tips below.

Steps to writing a good letter of employment

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• Prepare and organize your thoughts: Keep in mind that a lot of candidates are applying for the same position. Highlight the most useful or relevant skills and experiences. You need to understand what the employer is looking for and be in a position to convince him or her that you are fit for the job. Explain your qualifications and skills in such a way that the need of the employer will be met. With the ideas of what you want to write in mind, better still, written down; you can then proceed to the actual writing.
• Writing guide: This is a totally different write-up from a quick email to your friend or a thank you note to someone you appreciate. There are expectations from those who will receive your application. Meeting the bare minimum would mean better consideration of your case. You need to adhere to spacing, presentation and length guidelines if you want hiring managers to read your letter.
• Length: The length should not exceed a page
• Font: Have between 10 and 12 points in your font size so as to make your legible.
• Formatting and margins: The format and page margins of your letter matter too. Single space your letter with spaces between every paragraph. Align your text to the left if it is not the default setting. Use at least 1” margins and use a favorable font. Times New Roman, Calibri, and Arial are the most suitable MS Word fonts to use in your application letter for a job.

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The format of an application letter

The following format should be used when writing an application letter:

This includes both your contact and that of your potential employer. The heading contains your name, postal address, the email, phone number, and the date beneath the contact information. The recipient's contact information includes the company name, the address, and their role. Add the reference just below the contact details.

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Introduction

The introduction of an application letter for a job should have a simple salutation such as Dear Mr. /Ms. which is followed by the person's last name. Do not be casual in your greetings. Avoid words like “Hey or hello” and use more professional terms. Only use “To Whom It May Concern” if you are unsure of the name or title person you are addressing. You can also use general salutations like “Dear Human Resources Manager” or “Dear Hiring Manager” if the contact person’s name has not been provided.

A step by step guide for writing an awesome attachment letter

This part contains the most weight in your application letter. Start by mentioning the job you want and where you heard the vacancy from. Next state your qualifications and convince your employer to be that you are the best guy for the job. Mention any accomplishments you have had in your career or how your skills saved a company you previously worked for in your application letter for a job vacancy. Employers love to hear about your achievements as they are assured that your addition to the company will make the firm more successful. Share every detail in your experience.

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In conclusion, be grateful to your potential employer for taking the time to hear you out and thank them for considering you. The conclusion is usually short, just three to four sentences.

Sign off with with a polite close like yours sincerely or yours faithfully. Complete the letter with your handwritten signature followed by your name, typed. Include your contact information as you end..

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Job application letter template

Job application letter sample

(Your contact information )

(Employer’s contacts information )

Dear Sir/Madam, (salutation)

Re: Application for the Sales Manager job

I would like to express my interest in the Sale Manager position that was posted on the Daily Magazine on 4th December 2018. My experience and skills are sufficient enough to meet the requirements of this job. (Indicate your interest in the job and from where you learned about it).

Working as a Sales Manager for MNP Company exposed me to very many activities that enhanced my experience in my line of work. I effectively managed the budgets for the company and solved customer complaints amicably for six years. (Talk about what you did in the past that enabled you to gain the skills).

Attached is my resume providing further details about me. Thank you for considering me. (Express gratitude).

How to write a verification of employment letter

(Signature)

Kate Williams

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There you have it. A step by step procedure of writing the best application letter for employment. Go ahead and apply for that job you saw advertised. Goodluck!

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Source: TUKO.co.ke

Venic Nyanchama (Lifestyle writer) Venic Nyanchama is an editor with more than three years of working experience in journalism. She has an educational background in Journalism and Media Studies from the University of Nairobi, having graduated in 2014. Venic has worked on different platforms, such as Rumour Juice and Yen.com.gh. Her content encompasses celebrity biographies, education, guides, fashion, and gaming. In 2023, Venic finished the AFP course on Digital Investigation Techniques and the Google News Initiative. You can reach her via [email protected].

How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter

Most Kenyans cannot tell the difference between an application letter and cover letter. The truth is; they are one and the same thing and is sent together with your CV when applying for jobs.

A job application letter is intended to explain to your prospective employer why you are the best qualified candidate for the position. As much as it might sound like a highlight of your skills and qualifications, it must not be a duplicate of your CV .

Why? As your initial written contact with an employer, its main goal is to clarify and interpret parts of your CV while highlighting experiences and competencies that relate to the position for which you are applying.

What steps should you follow when writing a job application letter?

Header: This includes both your and the employers contact information (name and address) and the date.

“If this is an email rather than an actual letter, include your contact information at the end of the letter, after your signature,” says Colm Cavey, a Professional Career Consultant with over 24 years experience.

Salutations: Kenyan job seekers make a mistake of having generic greetings such as ‘Dear Sir/ Madam/ Human Resource Manager’. Do a thorough research and begin your letter with ‘Dear Ms./Mr./Mrs. Last Name of the HR’.

Subject: If you are sending an email application, the subject line of your email message should state the job you are applying for. This spells out to the employer who you are and the kind of job you are looking for.

Body of Letter This is where you convince the employer that you are the best candidate for the job.

“It is divided into three paragraphs: The first one explains your reasons for writing the application letter. Mention the job you are applying for and where you found it; the newspapers, online or through a referral,” says Florence Mukunya a career advisor at Corporate Staffing Services.

The second paragraph, as she further explains, is your sales pitch. What can you offer the employer?

“Point out why and how your skills and experience are a good fit for the job by providing specific examples that demonstrate your abilities,” she adds.

“The third paragraph says thank you to the HR manager for their consideration and it is where you give your contacts so that they can follow up,” Ms. Mukunya says.

Finish off your application letter with a typed name and signature if you are sending hard copy job applications then proof and edit your letter.

A job application letter must be properly organized, formatted and spaced so it’s readable and makes a lasting impression on your potential employer.

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