>> Y12 6th/college >> Look for a job or training>> Writing letters >> Speculative letter

• Plan what you want to say
  
• Do a rough version first
  
• Keep the wording simple and stick to the point
  
• Leave out anything that won’t help you get the job
  
• Try to find out the person in charge of recruitment’s name; you can ring and ask or look at the company’s publicity leaflets or website
  
• If you are applying by email, put something like ‘Job Application’ in the subject line (so the email isn’t deleted) and attach your letter and CV
  
• Say why you are sending them your CV
  
• Always include information that will encourage the reader to look at your CV
  
• Briefly point out the things in your CV that you think match what the employer needs – this might be about your qualification(s), a skill, your experience, voluntary work
  
• Say why you want to work for this company
  
• Include what you hope will happen next… you could suggest you will ring them to discuss going to see them or that you can attend an interview at any time
  
• Ring to see if your letter (and CV) has arrived...You can also ask when they'll be letting you know if they would like to meet you or that you've been short listed for interview

Remember: below are example letters only. Have a go at writing a letter of your own showing what you can do - be truthful and only include things you are happy saying.
	Spec letter for a job (41kb)	Spec letter for a job with A levels or equivalents (43.5kb)	Spec letter for an apprenticeship (8.48kb)