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This article provides information on how to write a letter of application and what it consists of. Although its content is mainly aimed at Cambridge exams, it can also be used for other purposes of learning English and writing a real letters of application.
Letter of application is always formal in style unless the question explicitly states otherwise. Its purpose is to propose a candidate and outline his suitability, for a particular position. Description (of a person’s character and strengths), explanation and justification are important functions in a letter of application.
| 1. Salutation Dear ……. |
| 2. The Introductory Paragraph Begin your letter by telling the reader where you saw the advertisement: |
| 3. The next paragraphs (the body) List your experience, qualifications and abilities. |
| 4. Closing paragraph Conclude your letter and sign off with: Yours faithfully |
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Dear Sir or Madam
If you do not know the name of the person you are writing to, use this. The following is a list of letter salutation examples that are appropriate for letters of application.
Begin by stating the job for which you are applying. Briefly mention how your skills and experience match the company and/or position; this will give the employer a preview of the rest of your letter.
I am writing to apply for the post of Fashion Shop Manager advertised in the ‘News Shopper’ of 14 February 2002.
In the following paragraphs, explain why you are interested in the job and why you make an excellent candidate for the position. Mention specific qualifications listed in the job posting and explain how you meet those qualifications.
Please see the example structure below:
(2nd paragraph) You might go and list your experience and relevant qualifications:
(briefly introduce yourself first) I am an ambitious and creative 25-year-old who have worked in the retail industry for a total of ten years, first as a sales assistant in a department store and for the last three years as a Section Head and Deputy Manager at Jones the Bootmaker.
(3rd paragraph) You might then go on to mention the particular abilities and skills that you have:
I believe I have all the skills, knowledge and expertise that you are looking for. I have lots of retail initiative, can schedule and prioritise tasks and can work to strict deadlines. I also work particularly well with people and would enjoy leading the team and working with clients and customers.
(4th paragraph) Say why you are particularly interested in this job:
I am applying for this position as I am looking to progress from junior to senior management. I have always been interested in the latest fashion trends and developments and I believe your organisation is a well-run quality fashion business. I would very much like to work for your company.
Conclude your letter of application by thanking the employer for considering you for the position and stating that you would like to interview.
You might close the letter with the following formula.
I look forward to hearing from you and hope that you will be able to invite me for an interview.
Yours faithfully
XYZ
“Yours sincerely” or “Yours faithfully”?
“Yours sincerely” is typically employed in English when the recipient is addressed by name (e.g. “Dear John”) and is known to the sender to some degree, whereas “Yours faithfully” is used when the recipient is not addressed by name (i.e., the recipient is addressed by a phrase such as “Dear Sir/Madam”)
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At the exam, you should of course aim to write grammatically correct English. But is that enough? For example, it is grammatically correct to write “Give me a job!” , but that is not the way to write a successful job application. In fact, the employer is more likely to forgive a number of grammar or spelling mistakes than to employ an applicant whose letter was too rude or too informal.
You have read the following information from a British university, and have decided to apply for a course:
The university welcomes applications to all its courses from overseas students. Please write to the Admissions Officer giving details of the course you wish to apply for and why. Your letter should include an outline of your qualifications and any other relevant information.
Write your letter of application
Dear Sir or Madam
I am writing to apply for your two-year degree in teaching English at the university level. At present, I am a teacher of English and of Computer Science in the primary school here, in Lutynia.
I am keen to improve my English as this is not only my hobby but also a strong need. I should add that I am already half-way towards achieving my goal. Ten years ago I was a university teacher of Computer Science. Up to now, I have specialized in both subjects. I graduated from Technical University of Wroclaw, Department of Foreign Languages and the Academy of Economics, Department of Computer Science with Master’s Degree.
I have a great deal of work experience that demonstrates my ability in languages. I have undertaken a number of translation projects for doctors, scientists, computer programmers and travel guides. I estimate that my English is at an advanced level and at present, I am preparing for the CAE exam.
I am particularly interested in completing my degree at your university as it is famous all over the world. If you wish Ms.J.Forde can give you a reference.
I hope you will give my application serious consideration and I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours faithfully
(your name)
A restaurant in your region is to open shortly and the owner has placed the following advertisement in your local newspaper:
RESTAURANT STAFF NEEDED…
…For a busy restaurant located in the main tourist area of this region. We have a number of vacancies available, including: Junior Chef, Waiter/Waitress, Restaurant Manager.
Hours of work: 6 – 12pm, Mondays to Saturdays.
Please send us a letter explaining which post you are interested in and why we should consider you for the job. Interviews will be held a week after the closing date.
Dear Sir or Madam
I am writing with reference to your advertisement for the position of a Restaurant Manager, which was placed in The Guardian on 10 December.
My reason for being interested in this vacancy is that according to what is said by the executives of the companies I worked for (please find enclosed their letters of reference), I am particularly efficient at being involved in projects requiring a great deal of physical and mental energy and also creativity. I would be able to bring to bear these personal qualities of mine for the benefit of the restaurant.
I am sure that I would be successful in this post as I have now gained managerial experience having had work as a Senior Manager for the “Little Chef Restaurant” for 10 years. At present I work for the restaurant mentioned above, where my responsibilities comprise dealing with suppliers and corporate clients, recruiting employees and checking the financial statements of affiliated companies.
My academic background (a Master’s Degree in Tourism & Hospitality) would also prove valuable to you.
Please could you send me an application form and any other relevant details including those of salary, working hours and any additional benefits (such as private health care or social facilities).
I am able to attend an interview on any day from 11 a. m. Should you need any further information, do not hesitate to contact me on 222333222 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or by email at olga_mail_2000@yahoo.com.
Yours faithfully,
name and surname
A tourist company which organises coach tours of your home town has placed the following advertisement in your local newspaper:
TOUR GUIDES REQUIRED
Are you an outgoing and sociable person, who has a good command of English and some knowledge of local history? Take-a-Tour is setting up a branch in your area and we are looking for tour guides to accompany up to fifty passengers a time on our coach tours. Your duties will include welcoming passengers aboard the coach, giving a commentary about the local sights, and taking small groups around the town on foot.
Dear Sir or Madam
I am writing to reply to your advertisement for a tour guide in The Tokyo Mini Times on 13th January.
I have always been interested in working with tourists and this is one of the main reasons why I am applying for this job. I actually have some experience of guiding foreign people around the town as a volunteer. Therefore, the city council sometimes asks me to take people to some historical places and explain about the background. Once I organised a sightseeing tour that thirty people took part in. Every time I have a chance to do that, they appreciate my explanations. I think I will be a competent guide.
I have been living in this town since I was born. My ancestors came to live here two hundred years ago thus I know how this town has developed. I think I will manage to give a unique speech to the tourists.
I passed the Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English last year, which I believe endorses my English ability. As far as I am concerned, this level is suitable for a tour guide.
I am available to start work on 15th February. I am also available to attend an interview in the afternoon on Monday to Thursday. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you need any further information.
I would be very grateful if you consider my application. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Yours faithfully,
name and surname
You have read the following information from a British university, and have decided to apply for a course:
The university welcomes applications to all its courses from overseas students. Please write to the Admissions Officer giving details of the course you wish to apply for and why. Your letter should include an outline of your qualifications and any other relevant information.
Write your letter of application to the Admissions Officer.
(CAE 220-260 words – CPE 280-320 words)
A restaurant in your region is to open shortly and the owner has placed the following advertisement in your local newspaper:
RESTAURANT STAFF NEEDED…
…For a busy restaurant located in the main tourist area of this region. We have a number of vacancies available, including:
Junior Chef
Waiter/Waitress
Restaurant Manager
Hours of work: 6 – 12pm, Mondays to Saturdays.
Please send us a letter explaining which post you are interested in and why we should consider you for the job. Interviews will be held a week after the closing date.
(CAE 220-260 words – CPE 280-320 words)
A tourist company which organises coach tours of your home town has placed the following advertisement in your local newspaper:
TOUR GUIDES REQUIRED
Are you an outgoing and sociable person, who has a good command of English and some knowledge of local history? Take-a-Tour is setting up a branch in your area and we are looking for tour guides to accompany up to fifty passengers a time on our coach tours. Your duties will include welcoming passengers aboard the coach, giving a commentary about the local sights, and taking small groups around the town on foot.
Write the letter of application.
(CAE 220-260 words – CPE 280-320 words)
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Sample papers, online practice tests & tips. FCE CAE CPE
I’m writing to apply for the post/position of…..as advertised in……..
I’m writing with reference
I’m writing in response to your advertisement which I saw….
I’m writing in connection with your advertisement
I gained some experience while …
I am currently working as …
I have been working for … for the last four years.
I worked part-time for three years as …
At the moment| am employed by …
My qualifications include …
I have a diploma in …
I graduated from Barcelona University last year with a degree in …
Please find attached my CV
As you can see from the attached CV …
I see myself systematic, meticulous in my approach to work…..
I have a clear insight of………
I value time and not squander……
I tackle a problem…..
I would appreciate a reply at your earliest convenience
Please contact me with any queries you may have,
I would be glad to attend an interview at any time convenient
I look forward to hearing from you in due course….
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