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[lew]

I am going to have to apply for a job at work because we are undergoing a radical transformation and existing posts have been deleted!!

 

I'ts over 20 years since I've applied for a job, I've always been promoted or transferred between departments so I'm a bit worried to say the least. We don't have to fill in application forms but have to write saying what post we want and why. I really want a particular job and think I am qualified for it but for some reason I'm really struggling with my letter Its ridiculous I know because I write reports and letters for a living! I think it's because it is so important. I have to get one of the posts as I can't afford not to work, I won't be able to keep myself never mind the Chooks!

 

Anyone out there got any tips on writing an effective application letter?

 

I'd be very grateful for any help

 

Lew

[Lewis]

Have you got the job spec/job description?

I'd go through that and look at what they want and tick off what you have and give a personal example.

 

Then in the letter I'd say why you'd like the job, what you think you have/can give to the role and why it will benefit the business, and then what you'd gain from it, and try to give examples or relate something to the points you make.

 

Good luck!

[majorbloodnock]

I agree. Just remember that the only thing the covering letter is there to achieve is to get you an interview.

 

The key things for me are to brevity, relevance and personalisation. No-one has time to read a lot, no-one wants to read anything off topic and no-one will take seriously a standard letter that's just been topped and tailed. I've had a very good hit rate before now (and, I should add, when my employment history was far more shaky than it is now) by using the job spec to identify what the employer wants, then literally put it in either a table in the covering letter - two columns; Stated Requirements and My Abilities - or a set of bullet points. In either case, it has demonstrated that instead of simply spouting how great I am, my starting point is what they want, and that's a powerful influencer.