Structure
[insert your name]
[insert your street number and name]
[insert your suburb, state and postcode]
[insert title and name of addressee]
[insert his/her position title if known]
insert the organisation’s address]
[insert the date]
Dear [insert Ms/Mr Xxx or Sir/Madam]
Application for position of [insert name of role], Reference Number [insert if given]
Paragraph 1 – Introduction – Mention the position you are applying for and where you saw the advertisement.
Paragraph 2 – Why Me – Give a brief outline of your academic and employment history in relation to the selection criteria for the position. State how you could contribute to the role and the organisation (or industry). Provide evidence by describing relevant qualifications and experience, taking care to cover those skills/areas the employer is looking for. These can include your studies, skills developed in extra curricular activities, work experience and employment history.
Paragraph 3 – Why Them – Explain why you’re interested in the role and the organisation. In order to do this you need to have thoroughly read the selection criteria relating to the role and researched the organisation using the internet, newspapers, industry contacts etc. If you don’t know the name of the organisation (e.g. the position is advertised by an agency), you can research the industry.
Paragraph 4 – The Hoped-For Result of Your Letter – Mention your availability for interview and the best way of contacting you. Conclude that on the basis of your outlined skills and experience you’d like to be considered for an interview. State that your resume, application form etc. is attached.
Yours sincerely
[insert your signature]
[insert your name typed]
Enclosures: (e.g. resume)
(Use “Yours sincerely” for letters beginning with “Dear plus Addressee’s Name” and “Yours faithfully” for letters beginning with “Dear Sir/Madam”)