Applying in Writing for a Job

 

Why Must I Apply in Writing?

Many employers ask applicants to write letters of application, especially if they are looking for someone who can spell accurately and write well for a clerical job. These letters are often the first stage in the selection process and are extremely important. Those who send in badly written, untidy letters may not be offered an interview.

What to Include

The aim of your letter is to get an interview so if you have to write a letter of application remember the following points:

• always write a rough copy first to make sure you don’t leave anything out
• use proper writing-paper and ink or ball-point pen or have it typed, if allowed
• make sure that your writing or typing is neat and legible, that you do not make spelling mistakes and that your punctuation is correct. Don’t use a long word if a short one will do
• set out the letter accurately, with the correct beginning and ending and make sure the addresses are in the right place
• if you start with ‘Dear Sir’ or ‘Dear Madam’ end with ‘Yours faithfully’ and if you start with ‘Dear Mrs Jones’ end with ‘Yours sincerely’
• if you are replying to an advertisement address your letter to the person mentioned eg. Personnel Officer or Manager
• if your letter relates to a definite vacancy, start off by mentioning this and say how you heard about it
• next, give brief details about yourself:
  •  your date of birth
  •  the name of your school and the date of leaving
  •  details of qualifications and any courses taken
     since leaving school
  •  if you were employed before, state the job(s)
     and the length of time spent in it (them)    
  •  mention part-time jobs.
• include your reasons for applying for the job, any relevant activities or interests, names of referees and finally dates and times which would suit you to come for an interview
• some employers may ask you to send a CV (Curriculum Vitae) which is a detailed summary of your past experience. If so, you should attach a short covering letter with it.Click here if you need some help to write your CV.  
• always enclose a stamped self-addressed envelope so that you will be more likely to receive a reply.

Remember!

Double check that you have included your name, address, phone number / e-mail address and that you have signed and dated your letter.