The effect of English language errors in application letters on recruiters’ attitudes and behaviour and the role of (non-) nativeness of the writer.

Abstract

The most spoken language worldwide is English, and many large companies have incorporated English as their company language, which is why, when applying for a job abroad, it is likely that this will have to be done in English. It is common, when applying for a job, to send in a resume and application letter. The application letter counts as a first impression, which is why recruitment agencies recommend applicants to check their letters on any language errors. The purpose of this study was to investigate the extent to which English language errors in application letters influence native speaker readers' attitudes towards the text, their perception of the writer and their behavioural intention, and the extent to which (non-) nativeness of the writer plays a role. Furthermore, this study investigated the criteria used to judge an application letter.