Effective Job Application Letter

What is the primary purpose of a job application letter?

• To list your job experiences

• To introduce yourself to a potential employer

• To request a salary increase

• To provide a detailed résumé

Answer explanation

The primary purpose of a job application letter is to introduce yourself to a potential employer, highlighting your interest in the position and setting the stage for your qualifications.

Which of the following is NOT a function of the introductory paragraph?

• Clearly state the position you are applying for

• Provide a detailed work history

• Identify your source of information

• Express your interest in the position

Answer explanation

The introductory paragraph should express interest, identify the source, and state the position. Providing a detailed work history is not a function of this paragraph; it belongs in the body of the application.

What should you include in the inside address of a job application letter?

• The date of your application

• Your name and title

• The recipient's name and organization

• A list of your qualifications

Answer explanation

In the inside address of a job application letter, you should include the recipient's name and organization. This ensures your letter is directed to the correct person and reflects professionalism.

What is a key element to include in the concluding paragraph?

• A summary of your education

• A request for an interview

• A list of references

• A detailed job history

Answer explanation

A request for an interview is crucial in the concluding paragraph as it expresses your interest in further discussing your qualifications, making it a proactive step towards securing the position.

Which of the following is an example of a poor cover letter?

• Dear Hiring Manager, I am very interested in the role...

• Dear Mr. Smith, I am applying for the position...

• Dear Sir, I have no experience but I am enthusiastic...

• Dear Ms. Johnson, I believe I am a great fit for the job...

Answer explanation

The choice 'Dear Sir, I have no experience but I am enthusiastic...' is poor because it highlights a lack of relevant experience, which is crucial for job applications, making it less compelling to employers.

What should you avoid in a job application letter?

• Tailoring your letter to the job

• Including personal anecdotes

• Using professional language

• Making grammatical errors

Answer explanation

Making grammatical errors in a job application letter can create a negative impression and suggest a lack of attention to detail. It's crucial to present a polished and professional image to potential employers.

How many paragraphs should a job application letter have at minimum?

• Four

• Three

• Five

• Two

Answer explanation

A job application letter should have at least four paragraphs: an introduction, a body with details about qualifications, another body paragraph for specific examples, and a conclusion. Therefore, the correct answer is four.

What is the purpose of tailoring your job application letter?

• To make it longer

• To address the specific needs mentioned in the job posting

• To impress the hiring manager with your vocabulary

• To include irrelevant experiences

Answer explanation

The purpose of tailoring your job application letter is to address the specific needs mentioned in the job posting. This shows the employer that you understand their requirements and are a suitable candidate.

Which of the following is a recommended salutation for a job application letter?

• To Whom It May Concern

• Dear Hiring Committee

• Dear Mr. Smith:

• Hello Everyone

Answer explanation

'Dear Mr. Smith:' is the most appropriate salutation as it is personalized and professional. 'To Whom It May Concern' is too generic, 'Hello Everyone' is informal, and 'Dear Hiring Committee' lacks specificity.

What should you do if you do not know the name of the person to address your letter to?

• Call the company to ask

• Leave it blank

• Use 'Dear Sir or Madam'

• Use a generic greeting

Answer explanation

If you don't know the name of the person to address your letter to, the best option is to call the company to ask. This ensures you have the correct name, making your correspondence more personal and professional.