Letter of application

There are many different ways to write a letter of application, and expectations are different depending on the kind of work which you are applying for. However, there are some things that they all have in common. A letter of application tends to be quite standardized and uses a lot of formulaic language. You should therefore try to include some of the phrases given below when you write a letter of application. There is also a fairly predictable order to the paragraphs for all letters of application.

Introductions

You should begin your letter stating your reason for writing, naming the position that you would like to apply for, and saying where you have seen the position advertised.

State your purpose in writing, name the position and say where you saw it advertised: I am writing in response to the job which I saw advertised in the Metro. | I would like to be considered for the position of teaching assistant. | I heard about this position through my careers officer at school. | I am writing to apply for a place on your work training scheme. | I heard about this scheme from someone who was on the program last year.

State that you think you are suitable: I believe that I have all the necessary skills and qualifications for this post. | I believe that I would be suitable for this post.

Qualifications and experience

Say what experience from your past makes you suitable for this job.

State your work experience: I have two years' experience working in this field. | I have had considerable experience working with 16 year olds. | I have been a qualified Office Instructor for five years.

State your qualifications: I am a fully qualified teacher. | I have passed the European Computer Driving Licence. | I have taken courses in Excel. | I graduated from university cum laude. | I am currently studying on a Master's Degree Programme at Ghent University.

Personal qualities and additional skills

State what personal qualities you will bring to the job. Try to give some evidence of these qualities. For example, if you say you are hard-working, mention the high grade that you got at school or university. If you say that you get on well with people, mention that you were working in a team in your last job.

Give personal qualities: I enjoy working in a team. | I enjoy the challenge of meeting targets. | I am patient and thorough in my work.

Talk about language abilities: I am able to carry out most day-to-day tasks in French. | I am fluent in Spanish.

Talk about computer skills: I am computer literate. | I have a good working knowledge of Excel. | I am confident using most desktop publishing packages.

Say why you want the job

Give the reason why you would like this particular job, or why you would like to work for this company.

Say why you want this position: I would like the opportunity to learn more about dictionary systems. | This job would offer me more experience in my chosen professional field.

State why you want to work for this company: XYZ is a leader in the field of digital printing. | I would like the opportunity to work for a large, international company like ABC.

End the letter

It is not appropriate to ask about salary or other work conditions in a letter of application. You should end your letter with a reference to future contact, and express your interest in hearing from them soon.

Mention any documents you are sending with you letter: You will find a copy of my CV enclosed.

Say that you would like to come to an interview: I would be happy to attend an interview at a time convenient to you.

Mention possible referees: I can send you the names and addresses of people who would be happy to provide a reference on request.

Express your interest in hearing from them: Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.

Refer to future contact: I hope to hear from you in the near future. | I look forward to hearing from you at your earliest convenience.