Application letters and personal statements

Covering letters should go with your CV as an introduction. Use covering letters to add any points you feel are important and to say why you are applying and don't repeat information you have already given in your CV.

Employers sometimes ask for a letter of application instead of a CV or an application form. Colleges and universities may ask for a personal statement, which is very similar. You may also have to do a personal statement as part of a job application. Below is an example of a letter.

46 Oxford Road
New Town
NT4 2QX
Tel: 01987 654 321
28th August 2008

Mr Clive Jones
Personnel Officer
New Town Council
Upper Road
New Town
NT14 6RT

Dear Mr Jones

I would like to apply for the job of Administrative Trainee advertised in the New Town Herald on 27th August.

I am 16 years old, an enthusiastic team member, well organised, of smart appearance and I like working with figures.

For the past two years I have worked as a Saturday Sales Assistant in a local clothing store, carrying out duties such as serving customers, stock checking, handling money and operating the cash till. I also had a successful work experience placement in the office of a local transport company. There I processed invoices, recorded data using spreadsheets and used e-mail.

I have five GCSEs in the following subjects: English (C), Mathematics (B), Business Studies (C) Geography (D) and French (D). As part of my Business Studies GCSE, I completed a successful project on starting up my own business. My interests include playing basketball and listening to music.

I am keen to work for the Council because I would like the opportunity to train and gain further qualifications.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely

HArry Patterson signature

Harry Patterson

Hints on writing a Letter of Application

  • write the letter out in rough first and check it thoroughly
  • word process your letter or use plain, unlined paper and black ink and write neatly.
  • letters to "Dear Sir" or "Dear Madam" end with "Yours faithfully"
  • letters to a named person end with "Yours sincerely"
  • print your name clearly under your signature
  • if you are asked to make a written application, apply by the closing date, give details about yourself and say why you are applying
  • keep a copy for yourself.