GUIDELINES FOR WRITING A GOOD JOB APPLICATION NYSF STYLE

Introduction
Each student has been asked as usual to find and apply for a real job advertisement. Similarly,
to make the exercise as relevant as possible, we have asked each student to provide a three-part
application as follows:
Covering Letter (one page maximum) in which they indicate briefly the reasons why the
job is of particular interest; the elements of your qualifications and experience which
particularly equip them to do the job effectively and will enable them to make an
outstanding contribution to the employers organisation.
Selection Criteria (one page maximum for the present purpose). We have stressed that
job advertisements always require that they must if they wish their application to be
considered - clearly and succinctly indicate the extent to which they satisfy each of the
published selection criteria.
CV. Sets out the details of their qualifications, experience, achievements and interests.

Points to Note Covering Letter

1. Should usually be about five sharp, focused succinct paragraphs: which should
Tell the prospective employer what you can do for them and why you feel
you are well qualified for that particular job;
Interpret and highlight the key points of knowledge, skills or experience
that apply to the key requirements of this particular job;
Focus on what you can contribute to the employer (not what you expect
they can do for you)
Ask specifically for an interview to discuss in more detail.

2. Clearly show your contact details: name; address; phone; mobile & email.

3. Properly addressed: To the relevant person by name or by title if name not known (e.g.
Recruitment Manager. Never Dear Sir/Madam or To whom it may concern

4. Neat, brief and businesslike:

Heading identifies job sought e.g. Application for Position of Chemical Engineer
Left hand justified
Properly paragraphed with space between paragraphs

5. Clear and Easy to Read and Copy:

Business font e.g. Ariel, Palatino, Times New Roman; 11 or 12 point type.
On white paper - No fancy fonts, colours, illustrations, decorations, symbols,etc.

6. NO Mistakes. There must be no errors in spelling, grammar or punctuation that will simply
make you look sloppy, careless or iggerant.

Points to Note: Selection Criteria. Set out the actual wording of each criterion as a heading
then address in one or two short, clear, lucid and highly focused paragraphs observing other
points as above. Avoid wandering sentences and waffle.
Points to Note: CV. Note key points of presentation as previously outlined above.