Difference Between A Cover Letter and An Application Letter

While cover and application letters are usually used in the same context, there are subtle differences between the two documents. They both serve the same purpose but the difference comes in their content.

An application letter is often intended to stand on its own, whereas a cover letter generally can’t be the only document submitted by a job seeker to apply for a job vacancies in Kenya.

The main differences between application and cover letters are:

• Cover letters only define your professional qualifications and the purpose of the letter. Application letters perform three main functions: to attract the employer, market yourself to the employer and convince the employer to call you for an interview.
• Application letters highlight qualifications, skills, strengths, and previous jobs where this information should relate to the job applied. A cover letter is more general and can omit some specific details. It, however, must include contact information and an explanation as to why you think you are a good fit for the position.
• Cover letters are shorter as they don’t include detailed information. Applicant documents shouldn’t exceed one page.

To understand these differences better, let us see how different a cover letter’s content is different from that of an application letter.

Differences in Cover Letter Content and Application Letter Content.

Cover Letter vs Application Letter Introductions

Cover letters have brief introductions, written in three to four sentences about the job seeker’s work experiences, education, accomplishments and the type of organizations he feels are best suited for his qualifications.

Application letters contain in-depth information about candidate skills and qualities. It has a more extensive introduction since it serves a similar purpose as to that of a resume.

Cover Letter vs Application Letter Work History

An application letter contains a brief description of the job seeker’s work history or professional experience whereas a cover letter contains less information about the applicant’s history and qualifications since it is accompanied by a CV that has detailed information.

Cover Letter vs Application Letter Content

A cover letter is a teaser whose intent is to capture the employer’s attention enough to make him or her want to go through the whole application.

An application letter, on the other hand, has more comprehensive content which if done properly, will showcase you as a good fit for the position. It describes the applicant’s educational background, certifications, experiences, and any other requirements as stated in the job description.

When to Use an Application Letter and a CV letter.

A cover letter accompanied by a CV is the document that is generally used to apply for job vacancies of interest. Employers do rarely accept an application letter in lieu of a cover letter and a CV.

An application letter is more appropriate when expressing interest for a position that is not being advertised with hopes to be considered in case a position opens up.

In conclusion,

Despite the differences, both documents when being used are very important when it comes to convincing the employer of you is the right fit for the vacancy. When writing either of them, follow the guidelines but if you feel like you cannot manage to write one well, get a professional resume writer to help.