These letters can make all the difference in being called for an interview or having your file stay with an organization for a long time. When you have been in continued touch with the recruitment officers, they are more likely to remember you and call you for an interview. As most firms use computerized data bases for finding candidates, keeping in touch with the recruitment officer is an excellent method of keeping your file active.

Letters of Continuing Interest
These letters keep your file active and should be sent every three to six months to employers who have you on their data bases. If any changes have occurred in your resume, it is important to send employer's letters to document these changes. Also, remember to inform employers if you have accepted another position as it is in your interest to maintain contacts and relationships.

Follow-up Letters to an Interview
After an interview, a follow-up letter should be sent immediately to thank a recruiter for the opportunity to meet them and learn about the organization and position they are looking to fill. Use this opportunity to send additional information that is related to the interview and would further your chances. This letter also gives you an opportunity to clarify or correct an error during the interview. Ensure that the letter is enthusiastic and optimistic of your chances of getting the job.

Formatting Notes
Adhere to being a thorough professional and never send any photocopied mater or handwritten materials. Be precise in addressing your letters to a specific person, using 'Dear Sir/Madam' when the name is not known and never 'To whom it may concern' which will likely ensure that you never get the job. It is acceptable to send your resume to more than one person in the same organization, but you must inform both officers by adding a 'cc' at the end of the letter; for example, 'cc. Mr. Steve Brown, Manager, International Marketing.' Be observant and use titles such as Dr., when the recruiting officer is a PhD or President, when addressing the head of the organization. Avoid using abbreviated terms such as P.O., St., Ave., etc in international addresses. Always make a notation of the items enclosed, using the abbreviation 'Encl'; for example; 'Encl.: Resume, application form, two reference letters.'

Conclusion
Follow-up letters are critical to the success of your application and must not be overlooked. Use these letters to your advantage as another opportunity to sell yourself.

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It can be one the most frustrating aspects of the job hunting process if you cannot find the hiring manager’s name. If you simply address your cover letter to the HR Officer or 'To Whom it May Concern' you are bound to have a long job search. It is important to get the right contact person for your job application.

This in turn can lead to being unemployed for six months or more and the depletion of your funds. First you start to cut back on luxuries and eventually essentials such as cell phones and then end up working in a chain store because you need an income and security. If you don’t want this to happen to you, start saving now to make sure you can afford to job hunt should you get retrenched or fired. Apart from this, you can speed up the process by getting the right contact person for your job application.

Easier said than done, but how do you get the right contact person for the job when there is no name on an ad?

Company name

If you know the name of the company, you can locate the telephone number through a telephone directory or by typing in the company name on the Internet. You should have enough luck with this part. Call the switchboard and request the name of the person who heads up that specific department.

If the receptionist seems unhelpful, try to get the hiring manager’s name. If you are still unsuccessful, ask who the HR officer is. Don’t let her give you the name of the head of department. Ask for another person who normally deals with hiring. Address your cover letter to that person.

How to get the right contact person for your job application if there is no company name

If there is only an email or fax number, type that number into the Google search box and you should get the full web address where you can conduct all the research about the company. This should also give you the departments and job opportunities. Call the receptionist if you still cannot find the right contact person for your job application.

Using a guerrilla job hunting technique to find the right person for your job application

As an alternative, you can address your cover letter to the CEO or MD of the company and contact the secretary to find out where your CV went. Contact the person at the company and say you are just following up on the CV forwarded by Mr. CEO. This will serve as a name drop since the person will not know what your relationship is with the MD or CEO, will thus respond in a positive way.

These are techniques for finding the right contact person for your job application when the information is limited and your savings are spent. Rather than ending up in a job you don’t want because you are in a financial hole, start using initiative to get your application processed.

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Do not over look the thank you letter. It can be very help full to make you stand out from other candidates. In your job search you have to make use of all the tools, and the Interview thank you letter is one of them.

Thank You Letter General Guide Lines

• The letter has to be sent before the decision to hire a particular candidate has been made.
• It is your last opportunity to mention any information you missed to mention in your CV, Cover Letter or Interview.
• Clear up any misunderstandings.
• You can use some things you learnt during your interview to your advantage.
• This shows you are a professional.
• Your last opportunity to leave a good impression.
• Send it within one day of the interview.

When to use a Thank You Letter :

• After an employment interview.
• To a person or contact who referred to a particular job.

Thank You Letter Structure

• Short and Simple is the key.
• Mention Specific points discussed.
• Follow the how to write a cover letter guide lines.
• 1st Part Thank Interviewer, for time and interest.
• 2nd Part Emphasis skills, enthusiasm and why you are fit for the job. Mention also any new things you have learnt about the organisation.
• 3rd Part Provide your contact details, and any follow up action.

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An Overview

• A cover letter is sent with your CV. It can make the difference between being successful in your job search or not.
• Cover letters are generally not read during the first candidate selection, but usually they will be read when the candidates have been short listed. Do not waste such an opportunity.
• Always include a cover letter even if the job ad does not specify that one is needed. Occasionally, job ads also specify a hand written cover letter.
• Your cover letter should not be a copy of your CV. Specify some of your cover letter achievements and be sure you know how to handle Cover Letter weakness. (Uncertain as to what you're trying to say here).
• A cover letter is a way of showing your writing and reporting skills.
• Your cover letter should be customised per employer. However, if you are sending a lot of CVs, this task could prove impossible. Try instead to have a cover letter per industry or per area.
• Do not mention salary in your cover letter. If the job ad requests your expected salary then mention a range rather than a specific amount.

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Keep in mind that you are not going to be the only applicant for a particular job. A bigger company that has thousands of employees is going to command a high response rate. Also, a high profile job in an industry that everyone wants to join will also command a lot of attention. You need to do something that will set your letter off and raise you above the competition. Follow these tips to make your letter stand out in the crowd.

• Use bulleted lists that will help to set off your strengths. Bulleted lists allow for the reader to quickly find what they are looking for. If a hiring manager has 100 cover letters and resumes to sift through, yours will stand out because he or she can skim right down to the important points.
• Add a post script or PS to your letter. This is one final way to get an important nugget of information implanted in the readers mind. If at all possible handwrite the post script. This shows a personal touch.

The main goal of the cover letter is to show your reader that you are unique and well qualified for the position. You need to do something that shows you are head and shoulders above the competition. If you can successfully do this you will be sure to receive more interviews, thus increasing your chance to win your dream job.

Finally, always remember to sign your letter. If you do not, it looks like you are mass mailing resumes in a last ditch attempt to find a job.

Some common mistakes to avoid:

• Make sure you have the correct address and spelling of the hiring manager's name.
• Be specific. You have a better chance of getting your resume in the right person's hands if you address it to the right person. Never send a resume to a general human resources address unless the employment ad says to do so.
• Failing to ask for a meeting or an interview can be detrimental to your chances at landing the job. If you do not do this, it looks like you are only making 'half an attempt.'
• Even though you are trying to show the reader your skills, make the letter about them. State what you can do for them, not what they can do for you!

Good Luck! Contd . . .

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The structure of these three cover letters is very important. It is necessary that the reader be able to follow your letter clearly. Below are some tips to maintain a solid structure.

• First paragraph should be why you are writing. Introduce yourself!
• Next, state your qualifications, both academic and professional.
• Tell the reader why you should get an interview, and why you are right for the job.
• Request that the reader contacts you. Ask for a meeting.

A couple things that you should always mention and a few things you should never mention.

• Put great emphasis on the skills that you can bring to the job.
• Show how college prepared you for the working world. Include relevant classes and/or work experience such as internships and co-ops.
• Use action verbs that show your positive attributes.
  NEVER use any negative verbiage in your cover letter. Do not say 'I apologize', this shows the reader that you know you did something wrong.
• Do not bring up anything that you do not need to! In other words don't write anything to the effect of 'Even though I do not have experienced.'
• Do not sound like you absolutely need the job. Sounding desperate puts the company in the position of power.
• Do not brag on your accomplishments.
• Write a strong closing paragraph that asks for a meeting or an interview.
  

Know that we have the structure down; let's go over the actual content of the cover letter. This is more important than the structure as it is going to introduce your personality to the reader. Some things that you always want to include in your letter are:

• Show what skills and experience you can bring to the company. Show your positive qualities, and how they will fit in with the structure of the company.
• Show that you have done your homework. By showing your knowledge of the company and their industry, you are showing that you are already a step above the competition.
• Customize your letter to match the advertisement. If a company is looking for sales skills, talk up your past sales experience in your cover letter.
• Be sharp, concise, and to the point with your letter. Do not make the reader search for answers. He or she should be able to find them without looking.

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Mr. Leslie Marks
Global Sales, Inc.
48 University Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85005

Dear Ms. Marks:

I recently came across your internet posting on your career board searching for a customer service representative. I feel that I am an ideal fit for this job, and wanted to send you a quick note to express my interest.

Over the past four years I have worked as a sales and marketing representative for Nationwide Marketing, Inc. During my time with them, I was responsible for prospecting for new clients, as well as providing customer service to existing customers. Though I did not work directly in the customer service department, I maintained daily contact with my clients to ensure great service. These skills and experiences will allow me to make an easy transition to the customer service industry.

In addition to my work experience, I have also earned a Master's degree in Business Administration.

I am eager to speak with you about how I can contribute to Global Sales, Inc. I will contact you the week of February 27 to set up a good time for us to get together and discuss this opening.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best Regards,

Dave Roscar

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Mr. Jeff Lewis
Holland Company
7800 Crafton Boulevard
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
Dear Mr. Lewis:

My several years of customer service and sales experience, along with my educational background, make me the perfect fit for the sales representative position available at your company.

For the past three years I have worked in the sales and customer service industry. The skills that I developed during this time have prepared me well for a position within your company. The skills that I have gained pertain directly to what you are looking for in a new sales representative.

My educational background includes a Bachelor of Science degree in business, as well as a Master's of Business Administration. I have also completed several sales courses that have aided in my career development.

I am very confident that I can be an asset to your company, and would be glad to answer any further questions that you may have.

Per your request, my salary requirement is $35,000-$40,000 plus benefits. This is fully negotiable based on added benefits, bonuses, and commission structure.

Thank you for your time. I am looking forward to speaking with you in the near future.

Sincerely,

Brian Eagles

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February 15, 2006
Ms. Arlene Steel
Credential Check
489 Wiley Street
Morgantown, WV 26505
Dear Ms. Steel:

A business contact of mine, John Morningstar, suggested that I contact you regarding the open position of Sales Manager at your company.

As the current Sales Manager at Hire Us, I have several years of experience in the field of sales. In this position I am responsible for contacting prospective clients, as well as following up with current clients. I also supervise a team of five sales representatives.

Prior to my current position, I was a pharmaceutical sales representative for Biomedic. During my time with Biomedic, I increased western regional sales by 124%.

My stellar performance has been recognized by my past employers as I have won employee of the week on three occasions, as well as salesman of the year at Biomedic.

I am very interested in meeting with you to discuss this position further. Attached is my resume for your review. If I do not hear from you by the end of February, I will give you a call to set up a meeting.

Thanks again, and I am looking forward to meeting with you.

Sincerely,

Jeanette Duncan

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February 16, 2006

Mr. Don Terpack
IT Marketing
10 Hawthorn Drive
Oakdale, PA 15071
Dear Mr. Terpack:

Your advertisement on Monster.com fits my experience and qualifications perfectly, and I am writing to express my interest in this position.

Most recently in a position with Comprehensive Information Services and an internship with The Pittsburgh Penguins, I gained valuable experience in a variety of different fields. This position, coupled with my educational background has prepared me for a career in a variety of different fields.

In addition to my desire to join your organization, you will find that I have experience in a wide range of fields, as well as numerous academic accomplishments such as:

• A position with Comprehensive Information Services in which I was responsible for daily client interaction, and tracking of reports and supplements.
• A position with The Pittsburgh Penguins, where I gained experience in the area of sales and marketing.
• A Bachelor of Arts degree in Marketing, while maintaining a 3.55 GPA and graduating cum laude.
  

If you agree that my qualifications are a fit to your needs, I would be delighted to meet with you personally to discuss any openings that you have. You can reach me via phone at 814-834-8971.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Billy South

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Mr. Joseph Banks
Hamilton and Meyer
25 State Drive
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
Dear Mr. Smith:

I recently received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting from the University of Pittsburgh, and feel that my background makes me a good fit for the position of accountant at Hamilton and Meyer.

Even though I recently graduated, I have several years of experience in the accounting field. In a recent internship with Thorp and Reed I helped to assist staff in the daily accounting duties and office work. This experience gave me the necessary skills to take on a full-time accounting position.

I feel that my past work and education have prepared me well for a position within the accounting industry, and I am very interested in starting a career with a reputable company such as yours.

I am available to interview at your office anytime this month. I feel that a meeting would be mutually beneficial to the both of us. If I do not hear from you within the next week, I will give you a call to arrange an interview.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Chris Banks

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February 15, 2006
Mr. Don Yoder
Grant and Associates
90 Home Avenue
Carnegie, PA 15106
Mr. Don Yoder:

I recently came across your ad in the Daily News searching for a professional copywriter. I have the writing and photography skills that you are looking for, and feel that I would be a perfect fit for this position.

I am currently employed by an award winning daily newspaper in which I am responsible for all copywriting duties. My current supervisor, Ms. Jenny Shields, will most definitely offer a good reference. After carefully reading your advertisement I feel that my current position entails many of the same duties that you are looking to fill.

In addition to my present job, I also work on a freelance basis with some of the biggest companies in the Pittsburgh area.

Knowing how urgent a good copywriter is I am sure you would like to interview applicants as soon as possible. You can reach me via phone at 412-893-0999 or by email at cjones@hotmail.com.

Thank you for your time, and I am looking forward to speaking with you in person.

Sincerely,

Chris Jones

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August 25, 2007

Ms. Bill Gates
Max Marketing
4 Station Road
Ann Arbor, CA 48105
Dear Ms. Tom:

I recently came across your internet ad searching for a marketing intern. My combination of previous work experience and education make me a perfect fit for this position.

I have several years of work experience in the marketing field as an intern with Computer, Inc., as well as 21 credit hours in business and marketing at the University of Pittsburgh. My past experience has convinced me that I would like to pursue a full-time career in marketing after graduating college.

On top of my desire to work for your company, I also feel that an internship with Electronics Company would benefit the both of us. Your company is always thinking of new and innovative marketing techniques, and I have several years of experience creating marketing campaigns.

I am confident that an interview would be a great way to discuss this position further. If I do not hear from you within the next two weeks, I will call you to discuss a meeting. You can reach me via phone at 442-575-9048 or email at max@yahoo.com.

Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,

Max Job

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August 25, 2007

Ms. Bill Gates
Max Marketing
4 Station Road
Ann Arbor, CA 48105
Dear Ms. Tom:

My four years of experience as an electrician in the U.S. Army make me a very strong candidate for the position of head technician that you have posted on your company website.

During my time in the U.S. Army I became fully certified to work on residential and commercial property. My past experience has prepared me well to troubleshoot and repair electrical problems in both a home and business setting.

My time in the U.S. Army has also provided me with the personal skills necessary to work in this field. My past experience has honed my customer service skills, and has allowed me the opportunity to work with a variety of different people.

I am confident that my services could help your company continue to grow. I will call you within the next 14 days to arrange an interview. If you would like to contact me in the meantime, you can reach me via phone at 487-449-2360.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

UltraJob

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August 25, 2007

Ms. Bill Gates
Max Marketing
4 Station Road
Ann Arbor, CA 48105
Dear Ms. Tom:

If you are aware of anyone who is searching for an experienced Sales Manager I would like the opportunity to present my skills to them. My past experience in the sales industry include positions with Western Life, Sony Electronics, and Luxottica to name a few. My current company is in the process of down sizing, and I feel that you may be able to help me in my search for a new position. Some of my recent accomplishments that may be of interest to your clients include:

• 2006 Sales Manager of the year at Western Life. In 2005 I helped to increase eastern region sales numbers by 213%. This was the greatest increase in any region, company wide.
• A Master's Degree in Business Administration that helped to advance my career by providing me with the necessary educational groundwork to excel in the sales industry.
• Consistently received above average performance reviews during my 23 years in the sales industry.

I am looking for positions in the tri-state area of Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia with a starting salary range of $80,000-$90,000. I would be willing to look at any position in the sales and marketing industry.

Also enclosed is my resume for your review. I would like to meet with you as soon as possible to discuss my situation and any openings that you may have. You can reach me via phone at 745-876-7546 or email at Ultra@aol.com.

Thank you again for your time and consideration. I am looking forward to speaking with you in the near future.

Sincerely,

Ultra Job

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August 25, 2007

Ms. Bill Gates
Max Marketing
4 Station Road
Ann Arbor, CA 48105
Dear Ms. Tom:

I recently came across an opening for your organization in the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania area for a Territory Account Manager. I feel that it fits my experience and qualifications perfectly, and I am writing to express my interest in this position.

I am currently employed as the Sales Manager at Justifacts Credential Verification, Inc. Through this position I have had the opportunity to enhance my sales and marketing skills on several different levels.

Also, I previously held an intern position with Bayer Corporation in the Sales and Marketing Department. This position allowed me to become familiar with all areas of the industry, and provided me with the opportunity to work in several different areas of the organization.

My salary requirements are open to fit your needs. I am currently earning $25,000 per year, plus commission.

I feel that an interview would be mutually beneficial. I will give you a call within the next 10 days to set up a time. In the meantime if you have any questions please feel free to contact me at 734-644-9461.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Ultra Job

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A Letter of Inquiry can help you uncover the hidden job market. Sometimes these cover letters are called marketing letters.

A letter of inquiry should be followed up with a phone call as this will increase your chance of getting your "foot in the door". Hopefully such a phone call can lead to a meeting or interview.

Good Letters of inquiry

• Inform the reader why you are writing within the first sentence.
• Read the how to write a cover letter guide, most of the tips are the same for letters of inquiry.
• Have a look at job application cover letter article, it offers a lot of insightful tips on writing job related correspondence.
• Highlight creative ideas to generate interest.

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Before sending the acceptance letter, you need to decide if you are going to accept or reject the job offer.

Make Sure You

• Know the length of the notice period from your current job.
• Understand in which job category you will start.
• Have an idea of the organisational structure.
• Are aware or have agreed on benefits, performance reviews, moving expenses.
• Respond as soon as possible.
• Acknowledge the employment offer.
• Express your gratitude.

Add

If you are sure

• Inform your employer that you have accepted their offer.
• Inform your employer of the notice period of your current job.
• Let the employer know when you are able to start work.

If you are unsure and you need more time

• Notify the employer when you will be able to take the decision.

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You should always inform the organization that has offered you a job about your decision even if it is a negative one.

You never know, maybe you'll need to re-apply to the same organization some time in the future.

A declination letter should consist of :

• Thanks for the offer is always important.
• State the job reference you were being considered for.
• You do not need to apologise.
• Be polite.
• Always leave your options open in your declination letter.

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Date: Tues, 15 Feb 2005 16:56:39 -0700 (EDT)
From: Ultra Job [admin@blog.com]
Subject: Customer Service Manager with three Years Experience
To: bill@gates.com
Content-Type: text/plain

Dear Ms. Long,

Being that I have three years of customer service experience in the promotional goods industry I feel that I would be a perfect fit for your company. In addition to my work experience I have received an MBA from the University of Michigan.

After starting out with my current company as a Customer Service Representative I was quickly promoted to Customer Service Manager due to my exemplary performance. In my current position I am responsible for the supervision of six representatives.

With your firm gaining new clients at such a rapid pace I am sure that you would like to have an experienced Customer Service Manager to ensure customer satisfaction.

I would be delighted to meet with you in person to discuss this position. I will contact you within the next two weeks to arrange a meeting. If you should want to speak before then, feel free to contact me via phone at 304-685-4738. I am looking forward to speaking with you in person. Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,

Ultra Job

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August 25, 2007
Ms. Tom Cruse
Web Plaza
420 Fun Street
Ann Arbor, CA 48105
Dear Ms. Tom:

As website design firms are expanding rapidly due to the increase in small business, the need for web designers is higher than ever.

Through my past work experience and master's degree program, I have gained the necessary skills to become very successful in the web design industry. I feel that I would be a valuable asset to your firm as you continue to expand. My web design and programming background could bring an added level of expertise to your current team.

I will be finishing my master's degree program in Nov of 2007, and would be interested in scheduling a meeting with you shortly there after. I feel that a meeting would allow us to better understand each others needs.

Please contact me at your earliest convenience so that we can set up a time that works for the both of us. I am eager to speak with you about the direction that your company is moving in.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Ultra Job

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This is a sample thank you letter to give you an idea on how to write your own letter, the phrases in italics, should be replaced by your own information.

[Date]
[Address]
[Phone Number]

[Employer's Name and Title]
[Employer's Address]

Dear [Name of HR manager],

I would like to thank you for the opportunity you have given me for an interview for the [Position title and reverence number]. I have learned a lot of new things about [Organization Name].

This vacancy is right for me as I am qualified and experience to fulfill the duties required by the position. The [info you learnt during interview] is also very interesting because I [have experience qualification in info you learnt].

If you need any more information on my career history please do not hesitate to contact me. Thank you for your time and I look forward to hear from you.

Sincerely, [Sign your name]
[Type your name]

Modify this Sample Thank You Letter to create your own version. You do not want your Sample Thank You Letter to be the same as 1000's of others.

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This is a sample declination letter to give you an idea on how to write your own letter, the phrases in italics, should be replaced by your own information.

[Date Declination Letter was written] [Date] [Address] [Phone Number]

[Employer's Name and Title]
[Employer's Address]

Dear [Recruiter Name],

I would like to thank you for your time to interview me for the position [Position title] at [Organization title]. After having considered your offer carefully, I have decided that at this point I cannot accept your offer because

Choose One

• The salary offered is not to my expectations.
• I can only considering full time employment.
• The position offered does not fit in my career path.
• I have received another more advantageous offer.

I do thank you for your thoughtful consideration and the employment offer I received and wish you luck in your search for an appropriate candidate.

Sincerely,
[Sign your name]
[Type your name]

Modify this Sample Declination Letter to create your own version. You do not want your declination letter to be the same as 1000's of others.

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This sample letter of inquiry is a good base from which to start, the italic lettering is where you have to insert your own information.

[Date]
[Address]
[Phone Number]
[Employer's Name and Title]
[Employer's Address]

Dear [Name of hiring manager]

I have been informed of a job opportunity as [specific position or area you are applying for] by [name of referrer]. I am a very interested in such a position because [qualifications or related work & interests].

I am currently employed at [name of organization] as [title of position].

or

I have just graduated from [name of academic organization]. [Achievements related to the position] [Note: Read Writing about achievements guide]

I look forward to further discuss this job opportunity and how I can contribute to the success of [name of organization].

Sincerely, [sign your name ] [type your name ]

Modify the Sample Letter of Inquiry, it is a good idea to add your own flavour.

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Several types of cover letters can be used, depending on the purpose and the target person. Careful consideration should be given to the format, tone, grammar, and structure of it to ensure that the letter creates a positive image of the applicant. The following types of cover letters can be used during your job hunt:

First contact cover letter

This type of letter is used when you contact an enterprise that didn't place advertisements for specific positions. You are using the letter to initiate negotiation for a job. It serves as an introduction of your skills and resume in the hope that it arrives at the perfect time - when they need someone like you. This type of letter normally doesn't produce many leads. It can be compared to advertising through pamphlets. It first has to reach the right person, then be read, kept, and used to contact you. You thus have on average a 2 to 20% chance of getting a job interview through this method.

Other names for this type of letter include cold contact and introduction. Since you have so many things that count against you this method is best used as the last option.

Targeted cover letter
This type of letter has immense potential for getting the interview since it is normally sent for an advertised position. You are able to highlight your skills and experience that match the job requirements and motivate why you are the perfect person for the job. It is also called a response letter.

Recommendation cover letter
This type of letter produces the best results since you and the company already has something in common. You share an acquaintance. It is used when you have been referred to the enterprise by someone reputable. Make sure that you mention the person's name within the first paragraph of your letter. It is also called the network letter. Always try to get a referrer because it enhances the possibility of getting the job.

Report back cover letter

It is also called a follow-up on a previous letter or interview. It may seem desperate but if your wording is correct, it can show determination and attention to detail. It works the same as following up on a sales lead and brings your application to the attention of the recruiter. Use this letter three or more days after an interview to show your interest, highlight skills, and to thank the recruiter for the interview. Try to mention skills and experience that you may have missed during an interview. Do not repeat the information from your first cover letter. It must be fresh and original.

Many recruiters feel that job seekers send cover letters to a broad audience. They are looking for targeted and original letters. The person who receives the letter must think that you are writing specifically for him. It must motivate the recruiter to call you for an interview or job offer.

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This is a sample acceptance letter to give you an idea on how to write your own letter, the phrases in italics, should be replaced by your own information.

[Date]
[Address]
[Phone Number]
[Employer's Name and Title]
[Employer's Address]

Dear [Recruiter Name],

After having considered your offer for [Position title] at [Organisation title] it is with great enthusiasm that I accept your offer. This job opportunity fits with my career expectations and path and I therefore look forward to contributing to the success of [Organisation title].

As we discussed, my starting salary will be [salary here] and health and life insurance benefits will be [describe here].

I have handed in my notice form my current job, the notice period being [notice period length].

I look forward to start [work / training course] on the [starting date]. If you need any additional documents please let me know.

Again, thank you.

Sincerely, [sign your name ]
[type your name ]

Modify this Sample Acceptance Letter to create your own version. You do not want your acceptance letter to be the same as 1000's of people.

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A cover letter is handy tools to market your skills and experiences, whose goal is to make you stand out and gain you an interview. These are a required part of all application processes and it is now an acceptable practice to email them.

There are three types of cover letters:

• 1. The e-mail cover letter
  Do not write a cover letter in the body of the e-mail as it is hard to format. Instead, write a short message in the e-mail and send two attachments consisting of your cover letter and resume. It is a common mistake to treat e-mail messages flippantly, using informal language and style. Candidates must follow professional writing techniques and make the most of the chance to promote themselves. Be polite, precise and professional, listing what position you are applying for and where you heard about it.
• 2. The letter of inquiry
  The letter of inquiry is used to find out about possible openings, application procedures and to register for the data bank for recruitments. These should be sent out in bulk several months in advance to gather information.
• 3. The application letter
  The letter of application is used to apply for a specific job, often from an advertisement.
  

Calling Potential Employers
It is advisable to call the company before you send them your resume, as unsolicited mail is frequently discarded upon receipt. When you make the phone call, find the following information:

• Exact name and job title of the interviewing officer to be included in the cover letter.
• The ideal profile the employer is looking for, so you can highlight these items in your cover letter.
  

The main advantage of making this initial phone call is that you can make a reference to it in your cover letter, showing your communication skills and reminding the employer as to whom you are.

Writing effective cover letters
An effective cover letter should convey clarity of thought and highlight your writing skills. Never use any slang or humor in a cover letter. The average cover letter should not exceed one page and should be in the following format:

• State the purpose of the letter in the first paragraph. Be precise and professional, stating how you heard of the position, mentioning the name of the employee if you were referred internally.
• Highlight your experience, especially international experience, in the second and third paragraphs. This is your opportunity to sell yourself by drawing attention to your skills and experiences. A good strategy is to describe your previous experiences from an employer's perspective instead of your own.
• Suggest for follow-up action such as in interview and add a short affirmative sentence about yourself in the last paragraph.

Conclusion
Cover letters require some quality time invested in their creation and need to be revised often. They can open the door for an interview and must be utilized to the utmost. Add something unique to your cover letter that will make the recruiter recall you.

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You have been doing the same thing for too long and would like to direct your energy along another career path. The big question is how do you sell yourself to an employer in an area where your experience and qualifications are limited?

In case of a career change use the Cover Letter to

• Highlight your related experience skills and education.
• Emphasis your transferable skills and even interests for your new career choice.
• Show how you can contribute to the success of the organisation.
• Concentrate on the employer and not yourself.
• Show what new things you can bring to the table.
• Consider working for a 'free' period in order to prove yourself.

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Letter writing samples are becoming a common request from employers.

The short listed candidates are generally analyzed using graphology in order to further limit the number of candidates that are called for an interview.

• Letter writing sample should be between 2 and 5 pages long.
• Write about something that is related to work; this is your chance to write about your achievements. Tip: Avoid creative writing!
• Get it as close to perfect as possible, avoid correction fluid such as 'tipex' or other corrective materials.
• Make sure the letter writing sample is grammatically sound and has no spelling mistakes.
• Submit your own work and make sure you know what you have written about.
• If the job application does not specify to submit a written cover letter or written sample do not send one.

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A cover letter is a letter that you send to accompany your CV when you apply for job, whether advertised or when you are sending an unsolicited application. Do not over look this tool as it can be a great asset in your job hunt.

The Job Application Cover Letter page contains specifics and tips on how to write a cover letter.

There are different types of job related letters :

Letter of inquiry: In this type of query you are enquiring about possible job opportunities that fit your skills. You have to give a general area you are interested in working in.

Job Application Cover Letter or Response to an Job Advertisement: Answering a particular job advert. The important thing in the cover letter is to show that your skills match those for the job advert.

Thank You Letter: A thank you letter shows the interest you have in a position you have been interviewed for.

Acceptance Letter: In this letter you state that you are accepting the job offered.

Declination Letter: You inform your employer that you are no longer interested in the position offered.

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Job related correspondence includes

• Job Application Cover Letter
• Letter of inquiry
• Job application cover letter
• Thank You Letter
• Acceptance Letter
• Declination Letter

General Guide Lines for writing Job related Correspondence

• Focus on your qualifications and experience and why you fit the job profile.
• Use simple and clear English. If you are applying for a technical job, make sure that a non technical person is also capable of understanding your CV.

Correspondence to business and organisations has to be written in a formal manner. A cover Letter should never be longer than one page. Mention achievements or strengths, apart from your qualifications and job experience. Your letter should be address to a specific person. Job research is very important. One of the results of your job research should be the name of the person responsible for the recruitment.

• Do not send a hand written cover letter if you are not asked. Make sure that your letter and CV are similar in style.
• Use top quality stationary. The envelope, the paper and the style of your CV stationary should match that of the cover letter.
• Make sure that whatever you write in your cover letter is backed up by facts or at least be able to convincingly back them up in the interview.
• Convey your enthusiasm about the job opportunity. You have to show that you are confident in your expectations about the job selection but do not be 'cocky'.
• Sign your cover letter and write your name in block capitals under your signature.

In all cases make sure you follow the Guide on writing Job related Correspondence which gives a lot of specific tips on writing different types of Cover Letters.

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