How to end a letter of application is just as important as how you start it. A letter of application, usually in the form of a cover letter, is an essential part of a job application that most businesses will ask for.
A letter of application, along with your CV, is the first thing a hiring manager will see. It’s your chance to make a good first impression.
Below, we’re going to look at why a letter of application is important and how you can create the perfect ending.
What is a letter of application?
A letter of application, or cover letter, is a document usually no longer than a single A4 page. It usually accompanies a CV and can be used when applying for a job, volunteering role, club membership, internship or other formal reason.
Your letter of application will include most of the information that’s on your CV but will go into more detail, expanding on your experiences and interests.
Details to include in this type of letter are:
- Contact information: Your name, home address, email address and phone number should be at the top of the letter.
- Greeting: If you know the hiring manager’s name, this should be addressed as “Dear [Name],”. But if you don’t know their name, you can use “to whom it may concern.”
- Introduction (who you are): “My name is [name], and I am interested in applying for the position of [job title].
- Opening paragraph (why are you applying): “I feel I would be a great fit for this position because…”)
- Body content (explaining your experience and skills. “After earning my [degree, diploma, NVQ etc.], I now have over [number of years’ experience…”)
- Closing paragraph: Include a call to action to reach out to you.
Now, let’s take a closer look at that final section.
How to end an application letter – step by step.
The last thing that’s read will be one of the first things they remember, so you want to make sure that the ending of the application letter leaves a lasting impression. There are some key components you will want to include in the sign-off of your letter.
Include an attention-grabbing closing statement.
Use this as an opportunity to reiterate why you want the role and why you think you’re the perfect fit.
Express passion and confidence, while summarising your goals or skills.
The closing paragraph should demonstrate your confidence and ability to do the job. Use active language: Instead of saying: “I feel like I will be good at this job because of my experience” say: “With my [number] of years’ experience in [job position], I understand the skills needed to be successful in this role.”
Direct them to any attachments you’ve included as part of your application.
This might just be your CV, but some applications may also require you to submit a portfolio of your work, or a link to your professional website.
Include a call to action.
This will help keep the conversation going and encourage a follow up. Some CTAs you can include are: “I would be happy to discuss anything further with you.” “Please take a look at the portfolio attached, and don’t hesitate to get in touch if there’s anything further you need.”
Thank them for their time.
Before you sign off your cover letter, you should also thank the hiring manager for taking the time to read your application.
Include a professional sign-off.
There are a few signatures you can use when ending a letter. You can choose from: “Yours sincerely”, “Kind regards”, “Yours faithfully”, or “Best wishes”. Which one you choose will depend on how well you know the recipient.
Add your signature.
You can add your actual signature, or you can type your full name.
