Job Search Letters
Types and Samples of Letters:
Cover Letter
Used when responding to some type of printed or advertised job opening; wherever you hear or see an advertisement about a job.
"I am responding to your recent advertisement for a _____________."
Cover Letter
Used when responding to some type of printed or advertised job opening.
Broadcast Letter
Used when you want to introduce yourself to someone or some company that you want to work for. They're not advertising, but you want them to know about you.
"I would like to introduce myself as a potential job candidate for your __________________________ department."
Broadcast Letter
Used when you want to introduce yourself to a potential employer.
Referral Letter
Used when someone you know recommends you for, or suggests you'd be a good fit for a potential job. Ask this person if you can use their name and suggestion in a referral letter.
"Jack Parker of your Accounting department, suggested I contact you regarding a possible job opening in Accounts Payable."
Referral Letter
Used when someone recommends you for a job.
Follow-up Letter
Used when you need to send additional information the potential employer has requested (i.e., reference lists, referral letters, job reviews, transcripts, etc).
"Enclosed (or attached) are the documents you requested..."
And/or to generate additional interest in you:
"Thank you for spending time with me last week in our interview. I've enclosed a referral letter from my last employer, which may give you some good insight on my work habits.
As you know, I am very interested in this position. Could you please let me know the next step in the hiring process? I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Follow-up Letter
Used when you need to send additional information
Thank You Letter
Used after every job interview to thank the people or person you interviewed with. Short and sweet handwritten notes are best; that is if people can read your writing!
Otherwise, a 3-5 sentence typed letter to can be sent to each individual who participated in the interview process. You may e-mail, fax or use snail mail to get your thank you out within 24 hours.
"Thank you so much for taking the time to interview me on Monday, February 2, 2010. After speaking with you, I'm convinced this position would be a good fit for me and (Name of Company). Please contact me at this e-mail address and/or 555-555-5555 so we can discuss the next step in the hiring process. Sincerely,...."
Thank You Letter
Used after every job interview to thank the person or people you interviewed with.