LETTERS OF APPLICATION

A letter of application may be written when we apply for a permanent or temporary job. It is usually formal; therefore, the appropriate language and expressions should be used.

Useful language for letters of application

Opening Remarks:

I am writing with regard to your advertisement …

I am writing to apply for the post / job / position of ….. which I saw advertised in …

I saw your advertisement for a …. in today’s ….. newspaper…. I am interested in …..

I am writing in connection with …..., etc.

Reference to experience/ qualifications:

For the past year / last 2 years I have been working as …..

I have been working as …..since / for...

Two years ago I was employed as ...

I worked as ….. before ..., etc.

I have / hold /obtained a degree / diploma / certificate in ...

I have successfully / recently completed a course in ……

Closing Remarks:

I would appreciate a reply at your earliest convenience.

Please contact me regarding any queries / questions you may have.

I enclose my CV / Please find enclosed my CV.

I am available for an interview at any time convenient to you.

I look forward to hearing from you soon / in due course. etc

Organization of paragraphs

Introduction: paragraph 1 - state the reason for writing

Main Body: paragraphs 2,(3),(4),(5)* -

education & qualifications,

previous experience (it is mentioned only if it is required)

personal qualities,

suitability

Conclusion: final paragraph - closing remarks

* The exact number and division of paragraphs and the order of presenting information will depend on the specific instructions for each letter-writing task.

Example letter

Dear Mr. Benton

I saw your advertisement for a Business Journalist in today’s Guardian newspaper. I am very interested in the job and I think that I have many of the necessary qualifications.

I studied politics and modern languages at Oxford University. I am fluent in French, German and Spanish. I have travelled widely in Europe and South America, and I have worked as a business journalist for the BBC for the last five years.

I enclose a copy of my curriculum vitae. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Please let me know if you need more information.

Yours sincerely

Nancy Mann