Job Application Email

Do some preparation

Before anything else, read and understand the advert so that you can work your application around the job requirements. Then do a little research on the organization to get an insight on your prospective employer. This will show initiative.

Structure your letter or email

• The position you are applying for. Write the title of the job as the heading or use it in the starting sentence of the letter giving the reference code if it is available. This will make it possible for your application to get to the right place in the organization. Don’t forget to mention where you saw or heard about the vacancy and if it came from someone who is working for that company mention their position and name.

• Your current situation should also be outlined briefly on the application, for instance, your current job. Take a look at the job requirements and focus your current responsibilities and skills that correspond to those required. For example, if one of the requirements in management skills, briefly state the experience in management you have acquired. If you are still pursuing your studies, then focus on the aspects that are relevant in your course.

• Reasons for applying for the job. Your reasons should be positive and clear. You may feel like you’re ready for greater challenges, bigger responsibilities and a change of direction. You need to outline the skills and qualities that you think you’ll be able to bring to the organization.

• Closing paragraph. In the last paragraph you could mention when you can start work or suggest to the company for them to keep your resume on file if they think you’re not suitable for the current vacancy.

• Signature. Always remember to sign the letter and write your name below it if you’re sending it via mail and not email.

General points

• Be brief. A lot of details are not necessary so go straight to the point and explain why you are best suited for the job.

• Start your email or letter with Dear Mrs. /Ms. /Mr. if a name was given, or Dear Madam or Sir if the name is not available.

• Use proper language and avoid slang or technical words.

• Use sentences that are brief and informative and use short paragraphs.

• Carefully check your punctuation, grammar and spelling. Some employers ignore applications containing such errors.

Dear (Recipient),

My name is (Your Name). I am a student (your school) at the Law School of XX University. I have attached my resume and cover letter for the (position you’re applying for). If you need more information or cannot access my documents please contact me on (your contact details, both telephone and email).

Regards,

(Your Name)

Dear (Recipient),

I am an advancing 3L at the (Your University) Law School. I am writing to apply for the position of (advertised position) at (name of the organization) that was advertised on (where job was advertised). I have attached my resume and cover letter. Should there be a problem or if you need more information, you can reach me on (contact details).

I will be waiting for your favorable response.

Regards,

(Your name)

Remember, if you are sending a prospective employer an email, you should write it as professional as possible. Check for grammar mistakes, typos and spelling errors. Ensure any attachments are uploaded properly before hitting send.

Dos

• Read the advert carefully and work your letter to go hand in hand with the job requirements. Include information that has been asked for such as when you are available to start work.

• Do some research online regarding the company to show your intention and initiative.

• Be brief and keep to the point when stating why you are suitable for the job.

• Keep the A4 paper one sided.

• Use standard English, short paragraphs and brief informative sentences.

• When highlighting key points, use bullet points.

• Get career advice from college advisers for they will give you some insight on job applications.

Don'ts

• Avoid a lot of details for prospective employers are too busy to go through a wordy job application email.

• Avoid slang or jargon that is technical and explain obscure abbreviations.

• Don’t forget to read the letter and check both mistakes and content. You can get someone else to go through it.

• Don’t use several different typefaces. Stick to one or two that are easy to read and clear.

• Don’t use inappropriate graphics or colors to brighten the letter.