Today, most people complete job applications online, where they submit an application along with a cover letter and resume. In many cases, employers use automated systems to process these applications. The system analyzes the applications to determine if the applicant is a good candidate for an interview. Generally, if the application contains many of the desired qualifications, the computer system flags it for further review. For example, if the job description lists traits such as “loyal,” “hardworking,” or “team player,” applications containing these words are more likely to be flagged for a possible interview.

Cover Letter

Many employers request a cover letter with a job application, especially if applications are submitted via email or online. A cover letter is a short letter, usually less than one page, that highlights the applicant’s qualifications for the job. The goal of the cover letter is to convey why the applicant is a strong candidate for the position. It should include the following:

• The job the applicant is interested in pursuing
• Qualifications specific to the job description
• Contact information, including the applicant’s preferred email address
• The date
• A greeting
• A signature

The cover letter should follow a standard business format, include a header, and begin with a formal salutation. If the hiring manager’s name is known, address them directly (e.g., “Dear Mr. Smith”). If the name is unknown, use a general salutation such as “Dear Review Committee.” The introduction should specify the job the applicant is pursuing, why they are applying, and where they found the job listing. If the applicant is targeting a specific organization, they could reference the organization’s mission. For example, if the applicant wants to work for a medical center with a mission to “serve all people with justice,” they could mention how this aligns with their personal values as a caregiver.

The body of the cover letter should highlight the applicant’s qualifications, emphasizing relevant experience, skills, and strengths that would make them a good fit for the position. Referencing keywords from the job listing can help the hiring committee quickly identify how the applicant’s qualifications align with the job.

Finally, the conclusion should reaffirm the applicant’s interest in the position and include a professional salutation, such as “Sincerely,” followed by the applicant’s signature. The cover letter should also include a reminder of how the employer can contact the applicant. Applicants must regularly check their email or voicemail and respond promptly to any inquiries. Failure to reply within a day or two may suggest a lack of interest, prompting the employer to move on to other candidates.

Resume

For most job applications, a resume is required. A resume is a document that provides information about a job seeker’s employment history, educational background, skills, and accomplishments. There are three main types of resumes: chronological, functional, and combination resumes. Each type has a different purpose.

Chronological resumes start by listing work history, beginning with the most recent position held or the current job. Subsequent positions are listed in reverse chronological order (from most recent to earliest). This type of resume works well for applicants with a consistent work history, especially in the healthcare or business fields. However, if the applicant is new to the healthcare field, has gaps in employment, or is changing careers, a chronological resume may highlight those gaps or limited experience. If there are employment gaps, it is helpful to provide brief explanations. Specific skills may also be easier to spot if emphasized in the most recent job listed at the top.

A functional resume, on the other hand, focuses more on education, skills, and experience than chronological work history. Instead of listing employment history at the top, the applicant may feature their education and qualifications. This ensures the reviewer sees that the applicant is qualified for the position. Functional resumes also often include a summary of qualifications or a headline that highlights specific skills or achievements relevant to the job. This format is particularly useful for applicants with employment gaps, as it avoids focusing on specific dates or job titles. However, the lack of detailed work history may require the applicant to provide additional context elsewhere.

Some applicants may choose a combination resume, which merges elements of both chronological and functional resumes. This format typically starts with a summary of qualifications or a short list of relevant skills, followed by a more traditional chronological work history. A combination resume allows applicants to showcase their skills while still presenting a solid work history. However, the work history may spill over onto a second page, which an employer may not fully review.

A resume should generally be one page, but it can extend to two pages if the applicant has more than 10 years of experience. It is best to avoid going beyond two pages, as most employers prefer concise resumes.

Letters of Recommendation

A letter of recommendation is a formal document that helps connect an employer with someone who can speak to the applicant’s suitability for a job. Recommenders are individuals who can provide insight into the applicant’s professional or academic achievements. Common recommenders include current or former employers, teachers, or co-workers. In some cases, recommenders may be asked to participate in a phone, Zoom, or in-person interview. Additionally, they may need to fill out surveys or respond to questions via email, either in addition to or instead of writing a formal letter.

Since writing a recommendation takes time, applicants should provide as much lead time as possible. Ideally, applicants should inform recommenders at least 2–3 weeks before the application deadline, although more time is preferable.

A strong letter of recommendation will include information about how the recommender knows the applicant and for how long. For example, the recommender might describe their role as a clinical instructor for a specific quarter or a teacher for 2 years, or perhaps they were a direct supervisor for 5 years. It is important that the recommender can speak to the applicant’s strengths and skills that are relevant to the job. Providing specific examples of the applicant’s work or why they would be a good fit for the job can also make the recommendation more compelling.

When requesting a letter of recommendation, applicants should provide the recommender with several key pieces of information: the deadline for submission, an updated resume highlighting the applicant’s skills, and details about the job being applied for. Depending on the recommender’s preferences, applicants might also offer to draft a few suggested points or skills that the recommender can incorporate into the letter. If the letter is to be submitted through a specific process (such as a particular address or online portal), applicants should provide clear instructions on how and where the letter should be submitted.