Difference Between An Application Letter And A Cover Letter

Most people, especially job seekers get confused in differentiating what an application letter is from a cover letter. The truth is that both forms of letters or documents look similar but they have few different meanings and functions.

This article will reel out important points to note about the difference between both documents (cover and application letter). It will also give sample format template of each type of letter as a guide especially when you want to write an application for a Job or summit your curriculum vitae (C.V).

A cover letter as the name implies, can cover any kind of document; be it a report, a CV/résumé, a budget, an application package, even an application letter. It introduces you and that is all. It needs to be accompanied by a resume or a CV.

An Application letter on the other hand is specifically a written application aimed at seeking for a job. It is often intended to stand on its own, and basically contains your qualifications and describes a bit of who you are and what you have done, as well as, your objectives and why you want to apply for a job. Whereas a cover letter generally can’t be the applicant’s only document submitted to express interest in a job opening.

A cover letter template should complement, not duplicate, your resume. Its purpose is to interpret the data-oriented, factual resume and add a personal touch. It is usually a page you have typed in the format of any business letter in which you introduce yourself to a perspective employer.

An application can sometimes be a form that is given by a hiring company or person in which you would fill in information asked for on this form that would often be included in a resume. Many employers will ask you to write to them perhaps in the form of application letters when they advertise jobs. Sometimes you will be asked to send your CV or resume. Your CV or curriculum vitae lists your educational and career history and is a useful summary for an employer of all your educational and employment achievements up to the present time.

You must always ensure that it is up to date. A covering letter may then be very useful because you can enclose it with your CV or the completed application letter. In your covering letter you can then draw attention to particular information which you wish to highlight in the other documents it covers (application letter or CV).

Finally, however, to clear your doubts, cover letters can also sometimes be used as application letters. Find below the format of writing both documents.

SAMPLE FORMAT OF A COVER LETTER TEMPLATE

Emeka Taiwo Ahmed
20 Second Ave.
Surulere, Lagos
March 7, 2017

The Human Resource Manager
XYZ Company
123 Central District.
Abuja, Nigeria
Dear Sir/Madam,

I am interested in the Coordinator position advertised on ABC Media. Given my related experience and excellent capabilities I would appreciate your consideration for this job opening. My skills are an ideal match for this position.

As a professional administrative assistant with excellent research skills, I am eager to contribute my abilities and experience to XYZ Company. Given my extensive training and background, I believe I can help XYZ Company meet its
goal of providing only the most accurate and timely information to its clients.

Please find enclosed my resume and a list of my references. Feel free to call me at 1234567890, to arrange a time to meet. I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,
Emeka Taiwo Ahmed.

SAMPLE FORMAT OF AN APPLICATION LETTER TEMPLATE

Emeka Taiwo Ahmed
20 Second Ave.
Surulere, Lagos
March 7, 2017

The Human Resource Manager
XYZ Company
123 Central District.
Abuja, Nigeria
Dear Sir/Madam,

APPLICATION FOR THE POSITION OF A COORDINATOR

I am writing to you to express my interest in the Coordinator position currently available at XYZ Company. I believe that after you have reviewed my application and resume, you will see that I possess an excellent skill set which matches your requirements perfectly.

As a professional administrative assistant with excellent research skills, I am eager to contribute my abilities and experience to XYZ Company. I believe I can help XYZ Company meet its goal of providing only the most accurate and timely information to its clients.

I look forward to hearing from you at your earliest convenience.

Yours Faithfully,
Emeka Taiwo Ahmed.