Memo (memoranda)

A memorandum (plural memoranda, abbreviation memo) is sent to people or whole departments inside the organization, never to a customer.

This is a memo warning staff that they may have problems with their computers.

	BLOGGS & BLOGGS MEMO
To: All staff C.C. M.D.	From: Michael McGovern, I.T. Centre Subject: Computer Access
Date: 18 August 2000 ---------------------------------------------------------------------1 ----------------------------------------------------------------------2 We will be upgrading the software installed on the network over the weekend. It is possible that you may have problems accessing your computer on Monday morning. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------3 If this is the case, please do one of the following: Press the restart key when the ‘access denied’ message comes up. Phone extension 2291 for help from a technician. ----------------------------------4 We are doing everything we can to make sure things go smoothly, and will be glad to help if you have any problems. MM -------------------------------------------------------------------------------5

Comments

1. Memos should include the following headings: To/From/Date/Subject.

2. No greeting (such as Dear…).

3. They should be short and include only useful information.

4. Points should be arranged in logical order. It is normal to use bullet points or to number different points.

5. You can end with your initials or a signature, not your full name.

Check yourself:

1. Is memo used for internal or external communication?

2. What are the main headings of a memo?

3. How should you end your memo?

CURRICULUM VITAE (CV)

Your CV should be: * word-processed

* laser printed on good quality paper

* no longer than two pages of A4 paper

You should include:

Personal details. The employer wants to know who you are and how to contact you (essential information only).

Profile.

Achievements. If you do not have a lot of work experience, this section will show your potential.

Skills. Be positive about your ability – never underestimate your experience.

Work experience. Don’t describe the job – stress what you achieved and what you learnt.

Education. Qualifications.

Interests. Stress any significant achievement related to your interests.

Referees.

• Current students and recent graduates should choose an academic referee and a personal one (this could be an employer).

• Get your referees’ permission first and tell them what you are applying for and what you would like them to stress in a reference.

Study the advice given above and look at Ana Lekic’s CV.

Following the guidelines, prepare your own CV.

Check yourself:

1. What is a CV?

2. What information should be included in your CV?

3. Why do you think it is necessary to give references in you CV?