Resume

Application Letters

Description

An application letter is also known as a cover letter. it is the first thing that a potential employer sees. This doesn't just support your CV - it's an opportunity for you to stand out from the crowd and persuade the recruiter to put you through to the next round.

Standard, Conservative Style

• this is ideal for sectors such as business, law, accountancy and retail

• for more creative sectors, a letter like this might be less appealing and could work against you

Standard, Speculative Letter

• this may vary according to the nature of the organisation and the industry you're applying to

Note about application letter outline

• salutation -> if you begin with "dear sir" or "dear madam", end with "yours faithfully". If you begin with a name, end with "yours sincerely"

• opening paragraph -> state your intentions and bring yourself to the attention of the reader in order to make clear what job you are applying for

• body or content -> provide the reader with plenty of reasons to invite you to an interview : education, work experience, ability to work with others and/or alone, interest in your field, interest in the company, responsibilities in previous positions

• closing paragraph -> use the closing paragraph to ensure action from the reader. You can ask for an interview appointment time, stating that you will be happy to come to the employer's office when convenient. Make it easy for the reader to follow-up by providing your telephone number and email address

• enclosure -> always sign an application letter. It shows your serious intention and dedication

Open Ended

a. What would you write as your opening remark when the HR officer whom you are applying to is the same age as you? Would you still use "sir" or "madam"?

Open Ended

b. Do you think that it is important thoroughly to list your experience in the application letter you send? Why?

Open Ended

c. Do you agree that when someone is applying for a job, he/she is trying to "sell" him/herself to the employer? Do you think he/she has to put their best effort into the job they apply for?

Open Ended

d. Should you call / contact the company you have been applying to if you don't get information whether you are accepted / hired within 2 weeks?

Open Ended

e. What do you think would be more polite; to go directly to the office you want to apply to or to send your application letter using email? Explain briefly your answer.