
Job Application/Cover Letter 
To create an effective job application letter, use good document design and use the 
reader-centered approach to information design: put the bottom line up front, show how 
you will help the organization achieve its goals, explain how your experience matches the 
job requirements, move from general to specific information to back up your claims. 
Please note that this sample is double-spaced for readability only. Professional 
documents are usually single-spaced. 
224 Happy Drive #8 
Middletown, OH 12345 
 
April 14, 2008 
 
 
Mr. Robert Robertson 
Director of Human Resources 
Data Systems Design 
600 DSD Lane 
Raleigh, NC 12345 
 
 
Dear Mr. Robertson:  
While attending the computer science job fair at the University of Dayton on April 7, 2008, I met 
with Ms. Kathy Anderson from your networking and data transfer division. Ms. Anderson 
mentioned that Data Systems Design has an entry-level Application Programmer position open, and 
I would like to meet with you to discuss this opportunity further. For the past several years, I have 
followed the growth of Data Systems Design from a small privately owned company to a 
multinational corporation. Based on your aggressive growth in international markets, I believe my 
skills in programming and systems analysis can help your company succeed in these areas. 
Moreover, since you are planning to expand your operations in Asia, my fluency in Japanese 
and French will help you in this potentially lucrative market.  
 
 
Introduction 
Your introduction should discuss the following: 
  • Where you saw or heard about the position  
  • A brief background on the organization and its goals 
  • How your experience matches the position 
  • How you will help the organization achieve its goals  
  • Your objective: an interview