What to Write When Applying for a Job

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When You Need to Write a Message

Not every job application has a dedicated cover letter field. Sometimes you need a short, punchy message to:

• LinkedIn Easy Apply - The optional "Add a note" field
• Email applications - When applying directly to a hiring manager
• Recruiter outreach - Reaching out cold to recruiters on LinkedIn
• Referral requests - Asking a connection to refer you
• Follow-up messages - After applying or meeting someone

Each situation needs a different approach. Here's exactly what to write.

LinkedIn "Add a Note" When Applying

You get 300 characters. That's about 50 words. Make every word count.

Template 1: Direct & Relevant

Hi [Name], I'm a [job title] with [X years] experience in [key skill]. Your [specific project/initiative] caught my attention - I've achieved [relevant result] in a similar context. Would love to contribute to [Company]'s mission. Happy to discuss further.

Example:

Hi Sarah, I'm a Product Manager with 5 years in fintech. Your expansion into SMB lending caught my attention - I led a similar launch at PayFlow (£2.3M ARR). Would love to contribute to NeoBank's mission. Happy to discuss further.

Template 2: Referral Mention

Hi [Name], [Mutual connection] suggested I reach out. I'm a [role] with experience in [skill], and I'm excited about [Company]'s work on [specific thing]. I'd love to discuss how my background in [X] could add value to your team.

Template 3: Company Enthusiasm

Hi [Name], I've followed [Company] since [milestone/reason]. As a [role] with [skill], I'm excited to apply for [position]. My experience [achieving X] aligns with what you're building. Looking forward to the opportunity to chat.

Email Application Message

When applying via email (to hiring manager, HR, or info@ inbox), your email IS your cover letter. Keep it under 200 words.

Template: Email to Hiring Manager

Subject: Application: [Job Title] - [Your Name]

Dear [Name],

I'm applying for the [Job Title] role at [Company]. [One sentence on why you're excited about this specific company.]

In my current role at [Current Company], I [achievement that matches the job - with numbers]. I'm particularly drawn to this opportunity because [specific reason related to job description].

I've attached my CV for your review. I'd welcome the chance to discuss how my experience with [key skill] could contribute to your team.

Available for a call at your convenience.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

[Phone] | [Email] | [LinkedIn URL]

Key elements:

• Subject line includes the job title and your name
• Under 200 words total
• One specific achievement with a number
• Clear call to action

Cold Message to Recruiters on LinkedIn

Recruiters receive hundreds of messages. Stand out by being specific and making their job easy.

Template: Cold Recruiter Outreach

Hi [Name],

I noticed you recruit for [industry/company type] roles - I'm a [job title] with [X years] in [industry/skill].

I'm currently exploring [type of role] opportunities where I can [value you bring]. Recent highlights include [achievement with number].

Would you be open to a brief chat about roles that might be a fit? I'm flexible on timing.

Best,

[Your Name]

Template: Responding to Recruiter Post

Hi [Name],

Saw your post about the [Job Title] role at [Company]. My background seems like a strong match:

• [Relevant skill/experience 1]

• [Relevant skill/experience 2]

• [Key achievement]

Would love to chat about this opportunity. What's the best way to proceed?

Best,

[Your Name]

Asking a Connection for a Referral

Referrals are powerful - candidates with referrals are more likely to get hired than those without. But the ask needs to be easy to act on.

Template: Referral Request

Hi [Name],

I hope you're doing well! I saw [Company] is hiring for [Job Title], and I'd love to be considered.

Given your role there, I wanted to ask: would you be comfortable referring me? I've attached my CV and a brief summary of why I'm a strong fit.

No pressure at all if you're not able to - I completely understand. Either way, thanks for considering it!

Best,

[Your Name]

Make it easy:

• Attach your CV
• Include 2-3 bullet points on why you're qualified
• Give them an easy "no" option

Follow-Up Message After Applying

If you haven't heard back after 7-10 days, a brief follow-up is appropriate.

Template: Post-Application Follow-Up

Hi [Name],

I wanted to follow up on my application for the [Job Title] role submitted on [date].

I remain very interested in the opportunity and would welcome any updates on the timeline. Please let me know if there's any additional information I can provide.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

What NOT to Write

❌ Generic openers: "I'm interested in opportunities at your company"

❌ Life story: Save the details for the interview

❌ Desperation signals: "I really need this job" or "I'll take any role"

❌ Salary questions: Not appropriate in initial outreach

❌ Demands: "Please respond within 48 hours"

Quick Checklist Before Sending

Speed Up with AI

Writing personalised messages for every application is time-consuming. ApplyArc's AI tools can:

• Generate LinkedIn messages from job descriptions
• Draft email applications in your tone
• Create follow-up sequences automatically

The AI Career Coach can also review your outreach strategy and suggest which message style works best for different industries and seniority levels.

Try ApplyArc's AI Tools - 10 free generations per month.

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