Types of job search letters
Making the best impression is important in all correspondence with potential employers. Using the correct letter form provides a good first impression and vital information about you and your qualifications, either for a specific position or place of employment.
Application Letter/Cover Letter
- Used to get your resume read/reviewed and to generate interviews
- Used in response to specific job advertisements and vacancy announcements
- Demonstrates that your qualifications fit the requirements of the position
- Links major job dimensions with your related past experience and performance
- Shows you have done your homework on the position/organization
- Demonstrates you have the ability to write well!
Prospecting Letter
- As opposed to the application letter, focuses on broader occupational and/or organization dimensions to describe how your qualifications match the work environment
- Used to seek out possible vacancies in your field
- Used to get your resume read/reviewed and to generate interviews
Networking Letter
Thank-you Letter
This is one of the most important, yet least-used, tools in a job search.
- Used to establish goodwill, express appreciation, and/or to strengthen your candidacy (you may want to reiterate a point from the interview, or possibly mention something you forgot during the interview)
- Everyone who helps you in any way gets a thank-you letter (don’t forget “informational interviewers” and your references)
Acceptance Letter
- Confirms the terms of your employment (salary, starting date, etc.)
- Positively reinforces the employer’s decision to hire you
Withdrawal Letter
Once you accept a position, you have an ethical obligation to inform other potential employers (where you have interviewed) of your decision.
- Used to withdraw your employment application from consideration
- Expresses appreciation for the employer’s consideration and courtesy
Rejection/Decline Letter
Employers aren’t the only ones to send rejections. You may decline employment offers that do not fit your career objectives or interests. Do so diplomatically - you might want a job with this employer at some point in the future!
- Indicates you have carefully considered the offer and have decided not to accept it—you do not need to provide a specific reason
- Thank the employer for the offer and for considering you as a candidate
