## Step 6 - Writing

#### Writing an application letter

You are going to learn how to write an application letter.

- First read the theory (which explains what to write and how to write).
- Read the examples of the application letter.
- Do the exercise.
- Discuss your answers with a class mate.

Read the theory.

Writing an application letter When you apply for a job with an application form there is no need to send a letter. If you are sending a CV it is normal to include a covering letter. Sometimes a letter is all you need for a job application. The job advertisement will always tell you how to apply. A letter for a job application is a very important letter. The way you present the letter is your first introduction to the person who could be your new employer. As luck would have it, there is a standard format for this kind of letter, and this makes the letter much easier to write. There are four basic pieces of information you need to include in a covering letter for a job application: Name the job you are applying for and where you found out about it. For example, name the newspaper where the ad. appeared and the date when it was printed. Include some information about yourself. This is not necessary if you are including a CV. Give the name, address and phone number of two people who will recommend you to the potential employer. It is best if one of these is a personal referee and one is a work referee. State the times when you will be available for an interview. Before taking a look at the example letters, here are some useful key phrases to use in your own cover letters. I am writing to you in response to your advertisement for.......... As you can see from my enclosed resume, my experience and qualifications match this position's requirements. During .........., I improved (furthered, extended, etc.) my knowledge of.........., I look forward to an opportunity to speak with you in person. (OR to speak with you personally).

Have a look at the first example.

Below is an example of a covering letter that could be sent without a CV. The arrangement or format of the page should always be the same as this.

3 Mountjoy Drive Cork 8908907 Handy Motors Dublin Street Cork 11/12/13 Dear Sirs, I wish to apply for the job of mechanic as advertised in the Evening Herald of 9/12/13. I am 26 years old and have just moved to the area. I am eager to start work and get settled as quickly as possible. I finished my mechanics apprenticeship 3 years ago and have been working in a busy garage since then. I have an NCVA certificate in Motor mechanics. I am reliable and I like to work hard. I think you would find me a valuable worker. I enclose the following names as referees: Mary Murray Bill Caldwell Principal Director Inver College CMS Motors Dublin 7 Dublin 2 01 3453456 01 6786789 I am available for interview at your convenience. Yours faithfully, William O’Connor

Have a look at the second example of an application letter.

2520 Vista Avenue Olympia, Washington 98501 April 19, 2013 Mr. Bob Trimm, Personnel Manager Importers Inc. 587 Lilly Road Dear Mr. Trimm, I am writing to you in response to your advertisement for a Legal Assistant specializing in Port Regulatory Law, which appeared in the Seattle Times on Sunday, June 16. As you can see from my enclosed resume, my experience and qualifications match this position's requirements. I especially would like to point out that I graduated Cum Laude from The University of Tacoma and was hired directly upon graduation due to my expertise in port authority regulations. During the four years that I worked for Shoreman and Co., I further deepened my knowledge of the fast changing regulatory laws in our state. My employer also thought highly enough of my abilities to promote me to head legal researcher after my first year of employment. I look forward to an opportunity to personally discuss the position with you. I will call you within the next five days to arrange an interview. Sincerely, Kenneth Beare

#### Assignment 1

You have read the theory about writing an application letter (covering letter). You have also read two examples.
Answer the questions on your own.
When you’ve done that discuss your answers with a classmate.

1. Why is an application letter important?
2. How many pieces of information are needed in a covering letter?
3. How many referees do you need to have?
4. Fill in the missing words in the writing exercise below.
   The words are in the box besides the writing.
5. Look up the following words in your dictionary and try to write a sentence using the word:

   referee | potential
   job | employer

6. Show the sentences you’ve written to your teacher.