Writing letters

One of the first opportunities you have to create a positive impression with a prospective employer may be in a letter.

You would write a letter…

• to accompany a CV or application form – your chance to outline why you should be considered for the post you are applying for. This is known as a covering letter.
• to apply speculatively to an employer you would like to work for even if there are no vacancies currently being advertised. Many jobs are not widely advertised. This may be because organisations use speculative applications to fill vacancies.
• to request an application form or further details as specified in an advertisement.

• Be concise and don't include unnecessary detail. Try not to duplicate information that has already been shown on your CV.
• Remember to include which job you are applying for and quote a reference number from the advertisement, if appropriate.
• Make sure you state why you are writing and what you want.
• Always keep copies of your CV and letters to refer to if you are called for an interview.
• If your writing is neat and presentable, consider handwriting your letter, especially if it is a covering letter to accompany your CV. Employers like to see that you are capable of writing legibly.
• Do not use coloured inks, brightly coloured paper or paper with designs on it.
• Make sure your full name and address is on the covering letter as well as the CV as they may become separated.
• Conclude your letter with ‘Yours Faithfully’ if you have addressed it ‘Dear Sir or Madam’. Use ‘Yours Sincerely’ if you have used the person's name at the beginning of your letter.