Writing a letter of application
Step 1...
- Read the advert/job description carefully and any instructions you have been given about the application they wish to receive.
- Find out about the company.
- Make sure that your CV focuses on the work that you would like to do for this company.
Step 2...
- Your name, address and telephone number go on the right hand side at the top of the page.
- The date goes underneath these on the right hand side.
- The name and address of the person you are sending to goes on the left of the page.
Step 3...
- Under Dear Mr/Mrs/Ms………. or Sir/Madam put the title of the job you are applying for.
- Start your letter with a phrase like ‘’I wish to apply for……’ and name the title of the job and where you saw the advert.
- Write about your skills and qualities which show that you would be able to do the work. Make sure you include the skills and qualities that are needed for the job you are applying for.
- Give examples of how your experience shows you can do the job.
- Use words that show you are enthusiastic.
- Spend time drafting this part of the letter. Keep changing it until you are satisfied with it.
Step 4...
- Conclude with a phrase like ‘Should you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.’
- Finish with ‘Yours sincerely’ if you have written their name at the top.
- Finish with ‘Yours faithfully’ if you have written Dear Sir/Madam at the top.
- Print/type your name below these and leave a gap for you to sign above it.
Step 5...
- Check it through for any errors and ask someone else to check it for you.
- Remember to sign it and include everything you have been asked for in your envelope e.g. your CV.
