How to Describe Yourself in a Letter
When writing a letter, whether it’s for a job application, a scholarship, or a personal correspondence, describing yourself effectively is crucial. Your description should not only provide a snapshot of your personality but also highlight your skills, experiences, and aspirations. Here are some tips on how to describe yourself in a letter that will make you stand out.
Start with a Strong Opening
Your opening sentence should capture the reader’s attention and set the tone for the rest of the letter. Begin by stating your name and the purpose of the letter. For example, “Dear [Name], I am writing to express my interest in the [position or opportunity] at [company or institution].”
Highlight Your Qualifications
In the body of the letter, focus on your qualifications. Start with your educational background, including any relevant degrees or certifications. Then, mention your professional experience, emphasizing key achievements and skills that are relevant to the position or opportunity you’re pursuing. Be concise but specific, using quantifiable results whenever possible.
Share Your Personal Characteristics
In addition to your qualifications, describe your personal characteristics that make you a good fit for the role. For instance, you could mention your strong work ethic, adaptability, or teamwork skills. Use examples to illustrate these qualities, such as a time when you overcame a challenge or contributed to a team project.
Discuss Your Interests and Goals
Express your interests and goals in relation to the position or opportunity. Explain why you are passionate about the field and what you hope to achieve. This shows the reader that you are committed to personal and professional growth.
Conclude with a Call to Action
End your letter with a call to action. If you’re applying for a job, express your desire to discuss the opportunity further. If you’re writing a personal letter, invite the reader to contact you for additional information. Always thank the reader for their time and consideration.
Sample Letter
Dear [Name],
I am writing to express my interest in the Marketing Manager position at [company name]. With a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and over five years of experience in the industry, I believe I am well-suited for this role.
Throughout my career, I have successfully managed marketing campaigns that resulted in a 20% increase in sales for [previous company]. My strong analytical skills and creative thinking have allowed me to develop innovative marketing strategies that have consistently exceeded client expectations.
In addition to my professional background, I am a highly motivated and adaptable individual. I am known for my strong work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to work well in a team environment. For example, during my time at [previous company], I led a cross-functional team to develop a new product line that resulted in a 15% increase in market share.
I am particularly interested in the Marketing Manager position at [company name] because of your company’s commitment to innovation and growth. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and help drive your company’s success.
Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss this exciting opportunity with you further. Please feel free to contact me at [phone number] or [email address] to schedule a conversation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
