Job-hunting for young people - 6: "What makes a great letter/application? I'm not a brilliant writer so give me clear and simple tips."
Following on from her last post, Nicola Morgan continues her job-hunting advice for young people
Published
A great letter or application does the following things:
- It gives exactly the information asked for.
- It emphasises the skills required for this job – so, if you’re applying for a job in a shop, it emphasises your punctuality and reliability and how you are confident with strangers, rather than your canoeing skills.
- It is written in simple, very clear English. (Well, obviously, if you’re in France, French…) You don’t have to create amazing sentences – although if a major part of the job involves writing, then yes, your writing skills should be evident.
- It is positive and confident, highlighting why you will be great at this job.
- It is enthusiastic – showing that you really want this job rather than just any job (even if actually you do just want any job).
- It is formal, not over-chatty – so, do not use any text-speak; do not say “Hi” or “bye”. Imagine you are writing it for a fussy English teacher. BUT you don’t need to be ridiculously over-formal or pompous.
- It is appropriate for the job – so, if you’re applying for a job in a video-games company your language can be a little more informal than if you are applying to work in a solicitor’s office…
- It shows you as a pleasant person who will be easy to get on with.
- It has no mistakes or crossings-out at all.
- It contains your name and contact phone number.
- It mentions everything you think they want to know .
The Teenage Guide to Stress is launched in London today!
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