An application letter is demanded by most employers. Knowing how to write an application letter in Nigeria will increase your chances of getting your dream job.
As a job seeker in Nigeria, you will probably write more than one application letter during your quest for a job. Writing an application properly is a prerequisite to getting a job, Some Nigerian employers consider this as important as your CV.
In this article, you will understand how to write an application letter and how to fix your interest, skills, and experiences to show your recruiter that you are the best fit for the job.
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What is an Application Letter?
Application letters are letters that are written directly to the hiring manager telling him your qualifications and why he should hire you for the job. Although it doesn’t have to exceed one page, it should be more detailed than your Resume.
Nigerian jobs always seek application letters to evaluate how good you are for the job. To stand out among the thousands of candidates applying for a particular job, your application needs to be very good.
A well-written application letter will answer all these questions:
- Which job position are you vying for?
- Why do you want the job?
- What are your skills?
- How has your skill benefited others in the past (experiences)?
- How does your skill fit the job opening?
Check your application letter and see if you answered these questions professionally. If you didn’t or you don’t know how to, then this article will explain more.
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How to Write an Application Letter in Nigeria
Take the following steps to write a professional application letter
1. Research the company and the job opening
Doing proper research on the company and job opening will help you to
- Get more information about the job
- Write an application tailored to their needs.
- Know the skill set that they are looking for and write your application in a way that will set the relevant skill first.
- Get the exact contact information you will need to address your letter to
- Understand the culture of the company and use similar words.
You can find relevant information by visiting their website or checking out their social media handles.
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2. Create an Outline
Outlining before you start writing is important for any write-up including an application letter. When you outline you create a rough draft which will help you arrange your paragraphs in a more synchronized way.
A Typical outline should show the main point of each paragraph. With this, you can easily lead your recruiter from one point to another. This outline is majorly for the body of the letter
Remember to keep your outline short, application letters are not more than a page.
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3. Start Writing (in sections)
After your outline, you can start your application in print (which is best) or handwritten (if it is compulsory). Hold your outline side by side when you are writing.
Here are the sections you must put into your letter
Your name, title, contact address, email, and phone number.
The first information your employer should see is your name and contact information. This information should be in clear font size and type.
Using a header is a good idea, make sure the information is clear and if you are using colors, make sure they contrast very well.
Date
Some soft-copy application letters do not need dates, but it is important to write one if you’re not sure. There are many formats to write a date for an application letter, pick one of the date formats for application letters and use it.
Salutation
This is usually a simple, ‘Dear ma’ or ‘dear Sir’ if you are addressing a recruiting team then you can put your salutation in a plural form.
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Opening paragraph
This is one of the most important parts of your letter, here you will need to describe who you are, as it relates to the position you are vying for. You need to write this in a conversational tone, expressing yourself without show-off.
Body of the Letter
The body of your letter should have at least two paragraphs and not more than 3 paragraphs. You can divide the paragraphs into skills and experience. While stating your skills, always write how they will be relevant to your company or employer.
When writing your experiences, state in figures (if there are) the results of your impact on your previous work experience. Use powerful words that are simple and can hype up your application letter.
Remember to write why you like the job and what your employer stands to benefit from if he employs you.
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Closing Paragraph
Here is another chance to show off your skills. Address your recruiter politely, telling him that you’re looking forward to hearing from him.
Greeting and signature
The application will naturally end with a greeting at the end and your name. Check out some official closing for application letters.
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How to Write An Application Letter in Nigeria for a Teaching Job
Before you write a letter as a teacher make sure you check out what your employer wants and if you have the skills to match it.
Here’s an example of what a teacher’s application letter should look like.
Esther Edet
+234 81458933XX
31st October 2022
Dear Ma,
I am very much interested in your teaching job at Mary Slessor Academy. I saw your advertisement in a newspaper and that your job opening suits my eligibility. As someone who loves education and possesses deep skills to connect quickly with students, I consider your opening a means to continue my career.
I have worked with children for over 5 years, and I understand and practice modern teaching tactics to ensure the whole development of a child. I also have computer skills which will aid in learning.
As a trained teacher I love helping children grow both educationally and socially is . I will work independently as well as in a team to make sure your students flag high.
Thank you for reading through. I am looking forward to meeting you in person, to share what my duties are and how I can work to make your school great
Yours sincerely,
Esther Edet
You can see other teachers’ application letter templates
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How to Write an Application Letter in Nigeria as a Cleaner
Below is an example of an application letter for a cleaner.
your physical status must be mentioned, also mentioning other things you can do will give you a better opportunity
Here’s an example
Victory Eyo
33A Gambia Street
Port Harcourt
5th March 2022
Dear Sir,
I came across your vacancy for a Cleaner on social media. After reading through your job description I feel that I have all of the skills that you are looking for in a candidate.
I have worked as a cleaner for the last 3 years and I have gained experience in sweeping, mopping, and scrubbing floors and walls. I understand how modern equipment and measurements work and I can use them properly and safely.
As a physically fit individual, I am very energetic and need no supervision to get my jobs done properly. I have no problem walking, stooping, or kneeling and I can lift and carry heavy loads up and down I am comfortable having a role that is physically demanding.
I am time conscious and intelligent so I can work both independently and as a team to get your jobs done
My CV is enclosed with this letter to give you more detailed information about my education and competencies. I look forward to hearing from you
Yours sincerely,
Victory Eyo
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How to Write an Application Letter in Nigeria as a Security Job
When writing application letters for a security job. It is important to check out the qualities of a security officer and write those skills on your application.
Here’s an example
Brass Ekpo
62 Usiefurn lane
Warri
Dear Mr. Brewer,
I am writing to apply for the Security Officer position at the University of Benin. I saw your post online and I know that I have the skills required to fill it properly.
with three years of security experience, I understand the nature of this job, which includes observing suspicious behavior, detaining students who have been caught in illegal activity, and keeping records.
As a physically fit individual, I can work well on my feet for prolonged periods with ease. I am organized, diligent, and attentive to detail.
Thank you for this opportunity. I am looking forward to hearing from you.
Yours sincerely,
Brass Ekpo
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Conclusion
Application letters are very important in Nigeria and writing a professional application letter will increase your chances of being chosen for your dream job. Be sure to have the skill set needed then tailor your application as you’ve seen in this article and you’ll land yourself a job soon enough.
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