A good cover letter is not the only letter in the job search that can improve your chances of landing a job. Each of the five job search letters discussed here have specific uses for various phases of the job search. However, regardless of when each of these five job search letters is used in the job search process, they do have some things in common.
1. All job search letters must be addressed to someone specific.
2. No job search letter should not be addressed “To Whom it May Concern.”
2. All job search letters must be proof read for completeness and accuracy.
3. All job search letters should be timely.
4. Current job search protocol says that many of these letters can be shared via email.
Broadcast Letter – A broadcast letter is, as the name suggests, an announcement about a transition. Broadcast letters could announce graduation from college and interest in pursuing a specific career area. These letters can announce an interest in changing careers or exploring opportunities within a company. The broadcast letter should include the reason for the letter and why you are reaching out to the specific organization.
Job Application Letter – This letter, known also as a cover letter, is used in the job search to express interest in a specific vacancy or known job opening. The cover letter partners a resume tailored for a specific job and markets specific job skills, experience and training that meets the minimum criteria stated in the job announcement.
Thank you Letter – Thank you letters are gratitude letters and are essential to a good job search strategy. The thank you letter should be sent within 24 hours after a job interview or meeting. It expresses the job seekers’ appreciation. For example, the thank you letter could be the way a job seeker thanks the interviewer for time or thank a networking contact for a new lead.
Acceptance Letter – Once a job offer is accepted, the selected applicant may choose to send an acceptance letter, to confirm details and express appreciation for the opportunity . This letter is a good time to ask about next steps.
Rejection of Offer Letter – Your job search has resulted in a job offer which you would like to decline. Is a good idea to send a rejection of offer letter to the employer briefly explaining the reason for your decision. You never know when you might have the opportunity to interact with the company again in another way and it pays to build rather than burn bridges with a well written rejection of offer letter.
