Job applications
Fit the words from the box into the text. Read the whole of the text first, as the general context and meaning will help you to guess the right word. It is also useful to consider what part of speech (noun, verb, adj. etc), the missing word is.

A completed job application gives the employer two kinds of 1. ___________ about you. First, it answers questions about your education and work experience. Second, it provides information about your ability to follow 2. ___________, work neatly, spell correctly, and provide accurate and complete data. This is provided by the 3. _________ that you fill in the application form.

It is not only a statement about your personal, educational, and 4. work ____________ but also about some of your other very important 5. ____________ as a person and as a 6. __________ employee. It is very important that you take the time to make every job application a very positive statement about you as a person and as a future 7. __________. Take care with your preparation and while you are filling in the application, make sure that you follow any instructions 8.___________. Be neat. Give positive information to show your 9. ________ of interests and include any unpaid volunteer work in the 'work experience' section. The job application represents who you are.

Sometimes an employer will ask you to send a CV or résumé. This is an individualized, written summary of your personal experience and educational qualifications. It is a fact sheet that tells a prospective employer why you are a desirable prospective employee, rather like a written sales presentation. An 10. ___________ CV creates a favourable impression of you while presenting your abilities and experience.

Writing the letter
Look at Letter 1, this is a sample cover letter written in response to a newspaper advertisement. The three paragraphs have been mixed up. Put them in the correct order.

Letter 2 is enquiring about job possibilities, but is not written in response to an advertisement.

Put the sentences in the correct order and then group them into three paragraphs.

Here are some useful key phrases to use in your own job application letters.
*I am writing in response to your advertisement for.…
*As you can see from my enclosed CV, my experience and qualifications match this position's requirements.
* During ...., I improved (furthered, extended, etc.) my knowledge of...,
* I look forward to an opportunity to speak with you in person (or to speak to you personally).
*I have enclosed a copy of my CV for your information.
*I believe I possess the right combination of skills…...
*My current position as ..…. has provided the opportunity to .…..
*I look forward to your reply.
* Should you require any further information please do not hesitate to contact me.

Before you post the application letter, make sure that it is perfect and that:
*It is not too long.
*There are no grammar or spelling errors.
*You have answered the job requirements.
*It is well organised and easy to read.

Some notes about appropriacy:
Remember, if you are dealing with an international organisation they will expect to select employees because of their skills, qualifications and experience. It is not appropriate to beg favours or offer prayers. It gives a bad impression in the 21st century international world of business.

British and American English:
The British use the word "CV" (from the Latin curriculum vitae), but Americans use "résumé" (from the French). The British would end their letters with "Yours sincerely", but Americans prefer "Sincerely Yours". Neither is "right" or "wrong" but you should use whatever is most appropriate for the person or organisation that you are writing to.

For further help:
Good English Learners' Dictionaries contain sections on letter writing.
Use an Internet search engine, type in "job applications" or "applying for a job". There is lots of material available to help you "get it right".

During the four years that I worked for Waterman & Co, I furthered deepened my knowledge of the fast changing international maritime laws. My employer also thought highly enough of my abilities to promote me to head legal researcher after my first year of employment.

I hope to have the opportunity to personally discuss the position with you. I look forward to your reply.

Letter 2
I am writing to express my interest in working in the marketing department of your organisation.

I have enclosed a copy of my CV for your information. I am familiar with the requirements for success in the sales profession and believe I possess the right combination of marketing and management skills.

I graduated with honours in Marketing and Business Administration from George City University. My current position as a coordinator of area sales teams with Yummy Chocolates has provided me with the opportunity to work in a high-pressure team environment working closely with my colleagues in order to meet sales deadlines.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I would welcome the opportunity to personally discuss my potential contributions to your company with you. If you require any further information, you can contact me on (360) 352-0259 after 4.00 p.m. I look forward to your reply.