Background Details in the Application Letter.
One of the best ways to make an application letter great is to work in details, examples, specifics about related aspects of your educational and employment background. Yes, if the resume is attached, readers can see all that details there. However, a letter that is overly general and vague might generate so little interest that the reader might not even care to turn to the resume.
In the application letter, you work in selective detail that makes your letter stand out, makes it memorable, and substantiates the claims you make about your skills and experience. Take a look at this example, which is rather lacking in specifics:
As for my experience working with persons with developmental disabilities, I have worked and volunteered at various rehabilitation hospitals and agencies in Austin and Houston [say which ones to inject more detail into this letter]. I have received training [where? certificates?] in supervising patients and assisting with physical and social therapy. Currently, I am volunteering at St. David's Hospital [doing what?] to continue my education in aiding people with developmental disabilities.
Now take a look at the revision:
As for my experience working with people with developmental disabilities, I have worked and volunteered at Cypress Creek Hospital in Houston and Capital Area Easter Seals/ Rehabilitation Centre and Health South Rehabilitation Hospital in Austin. I have received CPR, First Aid, and Crisis Intervention certificates from Cypress Creek Hospital. Currently, I am volunteering at St. David's Hospital assisting with physical therapy to people with developmental disabilities in the aquatics department.
Exercise 80 Sometimes companies ask for references from your previous places of employment or educational institutions. Here is a sample of such a reference.
A.N.Y. Company Ltd 69 Any Street, Anyville, Anystate Tel: 0123456789 Date To Whom It May Concern: Reference for Mr James Blond James Blond joined the A.N.Y. Company in July 1998. Since then he has proved to be a most reliable and effective member of the sales team. James is professional and efficient in his approach to work and very well-liked by his colleagues and executive clients. He is well-presented and able to work both independently and as part of a team. His contribution to all areas of company activity in which he has been involved have been much appreciated. I believe that James will make a valuable addition to any organization that he may join. We deeply regret his decision to move on and I recommend him without hesitation. I would gladly answer any request for further information. Sincerely, Penny Farthing Penny Farthing Managing Director penny.farthing@a-n-y.com |
Exercise 81
[8, ex.5.2]
After having submitted your application letter and resume all you have to do is to wait for a company reply. If your letter attracts attention you are likely to receive a favorable response. That is you will be invited for an interview with your prospective employer. Listen to the text and follow the audio script.
Interviewer: Alan, are there any key questions that you regularly
use when interviewing candidates?
Alan Lawson: |
Yes, there are and it’s almost ritual with me. Following the CV tells you about the people and their qualifications. What you also want to know is their personality. So key questions I ask – what do they like most and what they like least about their present job? They might say that they like travelling and they like meeting new people. These are standard answers. I think more interestingly perhaps are what don’t they like about the company. They might not like working weekends at their current company. You might have the same problems with yours, working weekends might be something essential for the job. Also, ask them what their weaknesses are. They're usually, generally I would say, quite honest when they’re giving their weaknesses. And ask them what their strengths are. It gives you an in-depth, if you like, feeling about their personality rather than just the straightforward qualifications that they have on their CV. Do they fit in? That’s what you’re really looking for. |
Answer the questions:
What four questions does Alan usually ask candidates?
What examples does he give of candidates’ likes and dislikes?
Exercise 82
The interview for a job is a crucial point in the process of applying for a job. If you pass the interview successfully you will get the job. Then you should take the next step and write a letter to your employer thanking him for the position offered. Below you will find the samples of such letters.
Thank You Letter
Michael Smith 2521 Kingston Pike Knoxville, TN 37919 (865) 555-5555
October 24, 2000
Ms. Sara Jordan, Director Campus Recruiting Acme Corporation 1000 Peachtree Road Atlanta, GA 30340
Dear Ms. Jordan:
I want to thank you for the opportunity to interview with Acme Corporation for the District Sales Representative position. I enjoyed meeting you and learning more about the position.
I would like to stress my interest in the position and my enthusiasm for working with Acme Corporation. I believe my education and internship experience in the Marketing and Sales industry fits ideally with the job requirements outlined.
I feel that I could make a significant contribution to your company. Thank you again for your time and consideration. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at (865) 974-5555 or msmith@utk.edu. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Michael Smith