0 courses selected
How to write a letter to get a job – even if they have already turned you down once (22 Jun 16)
Whatever the business, the principles are the same
I wrote to you last week about how to go about writing a letter to get a job.
You may remember that I used my daughter’s application for a summer job as an example of how not to go about it.
(She hasn’t spoken to me since. Just kidding!)
Well, I had so many responses and comments that I went one better and wrote something my daughter Ally, and other young people I hope, can use. You may recall that I thought the covering letter was her weakest spot of her application.
This one is a pretty good case because we are now writing to people who have already said no.
Don’t be put off by the fact that it’s a letter to a posh jewellery shop in London. Nor should you be put off because it’s an application by a university student. It really doesn’t matter two hoots if you or the person you are passing this onto isn’t a student.
In fact this letter could be adapted to any job, from a Saturday night job at a local restaurant to applying for that first full time job.
Here’s what really matters when you write to get an interview:
- Never forget, you are selling yourself - and your sole reason for writing is to get seen.
- Always write a proper covering letter where you sell yourself and give every reason why they should employ you.
- Answer any concerns or questions they might have about you
- Be enthusiastic. Say you really want the job.
- Prove that you are genuinely interested by referring to something you have found out about them
- Explain how they will benefit by employing you
- Prove you are good by using testimonials and examples of your work
- If necessary make an offer they can’t resist
- Pay attention to detail right down to a big, confident handwritten legible signature preferably in blue ink
- Try having a PS, as this is on average the most remembered part of a letter
- And be ready to do it all again at the interview stage
This is my attempt, so please let me know if you think I don’t measure up!
Dear Mr Jones,
My last letter asking to work for you this summer failed dismally – because it was awful, to be honest.
So I’m trying again - and if you think persistence is a virtue in retailing, I hope you will change your mind.
Would you like someone so keen to work for you that I’ll gladly work for nothing while you see what I can do?
It would be a dream come true if I could now work for you.
Why am I so keen? I have always thought X is the best jewellers in the world. And I have always been utterly fascinated by your jewellery, whether it’s your diamond rings, necklaces and pendants, bracelets, cocktail watches or men’s cufflinks. And I have a personal reason I will mention in a moment.
But what can I do for you, despite my inexperience? Well, I can:
Like to read more or make a comment? Log in or register below
Why not join the discussion!
Or even better still offer your own advice and tell us about things that others can learn from.
We moderate comments lightly so bear with us and we'll get your thoughts listed as soon as we can.
You must be logged in to post comments.
Not registered yet? Simply fill in the box below.
