Letter Writing / Email Writing
Writing cover letters or emails is a daunting task. You are wondering what to say, in what format do you write it and how should you sign it off. Once again we have created templates for you to use like this example. The golden rule of the letter is to be crisp, clear and concise in what you say. To create an invitation in what you say for the reader to continue to read your CV without saying anything that will shoot yourself in the foot at this stage.
Generally your letter should contain the following
- Your address and contact information (just in case)
- The name title and address of the person to whom you are sending the letter
- The date on which you are sending the letter
- The purpose of the letter, a reference number for the job and where advertised or seen
- A salutation e.g. Dear Mr. Sullivan
- Next to the content which should normally be of three or four short paragraphs
- The opening paragraph should introduce your purpose e.g. I wish to apply for the position of XXXXXXXX as indicated above
- The second paragraph should give a summary of why you are applying, what makes you suitable by way of qualifications and experience. Take time to craft this paragraph well. Write it and write it over and over again. Use power words like qualified, achieved, delivered, etc. Read the advertisement you are replying to carefully and make sure you match the requirements.
- The third paragraph should contain any particular information you feel it necessary to provide the employer with e.g. perhaps you are going on holidays for two weeks and will not be available until a certain date.
- The final paragraph might be a request to consider your application and a statement of your interest in the job
- Finally, you need to sign off. This is usually done with a 'Yours Sincerely,' and followed by your name.
Use quality paper and have your letter typed or present a handwritten letter if requested to do so, some advertisements state this as a requirement.
EMAIL responses follow a similar format. However, it is normal to place your address and contact information beneath your name at the end. The rest should be the same.
If you do not have a contact name use whatever was provided in the ad, where possible with a speculative letter to a company use a specific person to increase your chances.
Take a look at our sample and use our templates to generate your letters or email responses.
|