Seeking a Job (Part 1)

Summary

This transcript provides a comprehensive guide on how to write an effective job application letter, focusing on its structure, social function, and key language features. It explains the importance of including personal information, educational background, job experience, and professional skills in a formal yet concise manner. The content contrasts the Indonesian and English formats of application letters, highlighting differences in details like document attachments and interview requests. The video also emphasizes the significance of using professional language, clear communication, and expressing suitability for the role to make a strong impression on employers.

Takeaways

• 😀 The purpose of a job application letter is to formally request employment and present qualifications to potential employers.
• 😀 A job application letter typically includes personal identity, educational background, and relevant job experience.
• 😀 Job seekers should understand the importance of researching job vacancies through various channels like job boards, job agencies, and announcements.
• 😀 In Indonesia, job application letters are formal documents that often require attachments such as a CV, diploma, and identification, but these are not always included in English versions of the letter.
• 😀 The main goal of a job application letter is to highlight your qualifications and explain why you are a suitable candidate for the position.
• 😀 A key feature of job application letters is the 'Call to Action' paragraph, where the applicant requests an interview opportunity.
• 😀 In English job application letters, it’s common to express your availability for an interview and provide contact information like a phone number and email.
• 😀 The structure of a job application letter includes a salutation, an introduction paragraph, one or more body paragraphs highlighting qualifications and experience, and a closing paragraph requesting an interview.
• 😀 It is important to personalize the application letter by addressing the person responsible for hiring, as it adds a personal touch and shows initiative.
• 😀 The tone and language of a job application letter should be formal and professional, avoiding colloquial or casual language.

Q & A

What is the primary purpose of a job application letter?

The primary purpose of a job application letter is to formally introduce the applicant to the company, highlight their qualifications and experiences, and express interest in the job position while requesting an interview.

How does the structure of a job application letter differ between Indonesian and English?

In Indonesian, the application letter includes detailed personal information, such as name, address, and contact information, which are typically not included in English versions. The English application focuses more on qualifications and experience without personal details, which are usually found in the attached resume.

What are the key sections of a job application letter?

The key sections of a job application letter include the heading (date, recipient’s address), salutation (greeting), introduction (self-introduction and reason for applying), body (qualifications and experience), closing (request for interview and gratitude), and sign-off (applicant’s name and signature).

What type of language should be used in a job application letter?

A job application letter should use formal, polite language. Slang, colloquial expressions, and informal language should be avoided. The tone should be professional and respectful.

What are the social functions of a job application letter?

The social functions of a job application letter are to serve as a formal introduction to a potential employer, to provide information about the applicant's qualifications, and to request an interview for a job position.

What is the difference between a cover letter and a resume?

A cover letter (or job application letter) is a formal letter that introduces the applicant, explains their interest in the position, and highlights their qualifications. A resume, on the other hand, is a document that lists detailed information about an applicant's education, work experience, skills, and other qualifications.

Why is it important to customize a job application letter for each position?

Customizing a job application letter for each position allows the applicant to highlight relevant skills and experiences that match the specific job requirements, demonstrating a genuine interest in the company and the role.

What is the significance of the 'call to action' in a job application letter?

The 'call to action' is the part of the letter where the applicant expresses a desire for an interview and provides contact information, signaling readiness and enthusiasm to further discuss their qualifications in person.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when writing a job application letter?

Common mistakes to avoid include using informal language, failing to tailor the letter to the job, being too vague about qualifications and experience, and including unnecessary personal details not relevant to the job application.

How should an applicant highlight their work experience in a job application letter?

An applicant should highlight their work experience by focusing on relevant job positions, key achievements, and specific skills that demonstrate their qualifications for the position. This can be done in the body of the letter where the applicant connects their experience with the job requirements.