Letter Writing
As your first point of contact with potential employers it is very important that you learn the essentials of writing an effective letter. There are a number of reasons for writing letters to potential employers. The main ones are listed below: Responding to a vacancy, either directly to a potential employer or via a recruitment agency. Requesting an application form. Arranging a meeting. Networking.
It is generally possible to break down the format of a letter to a three-part structure.
- Opening Paragraph
- With no more than a few, e.g. 1-3, sentences this is where you should introduce yourself and set out your reasons for writing.
- Central Paragraph(s)
- Use these sentences to make your point, whether it's asking for a job, requesting an address or anything else.
- Be sure to carefully plan, draft and edit everything that goes into this section.
- Final Paragraph
- Conclude here politely and concisely.
- If there is to be a next step make sure that it is explained clearly.
Personalise Your Letter
- Ensure that you find the full name and title of the person you want to contact.
- Use the proper salutations - 'Dear Sir/Madam' with 'yours faithfully' and 'Dear Mr/Ms/Mrs …' with 'yours sincerely'.
Presenting Your Letter
- High quality white or cream A4 paper is the best to use, if possible with a matching envelope.
- If using coloured paper avoid b colours. Make the most of white space to make the letter visually attractive.
- Unless specifically instructed to hand write a letter always type it. Aim not to exceed one side of A4. Use a large envelope to avoid folding the letter.
Synopsis
- Be concise.
- Check grammar, spelling and punctuation.
- Use correct titles and names when possible.
- Use paragraphs properly and consider other techniques such as bullet points.
