52 Hanover Street, Edinburgh
EH2 5LM
UK
8th March 2014
Karen Gilbert
Patagonia Gmbh
Reitmorstrasse 50
8000 Munich 22
Germany
Dear Mr. Karen
I am writing to apply for the position which was advertised last week in the Independent.
Although I am presently employed by a none-profit making organization, it has always been my intention to work in a commercial environment. I would particularly welcome the chance to work for your company as I have long admired both the quality of the products that it provides and its position as a defender of environmental causes. As you will notice on my enclosed CV, the job you are offering suits my personal and professional interests as well.
My work experience has familiarized me with many of the challenges involved in public relations today. I am sure that this together with my understanding of the needs and expectations of sport and nature enthusiasts would be extremely relevant to the position. Moreover, as I am fluent in German language, I would definitely enjoy working in a German – speaking environment.
I would be pleased to discuss my curriculum vitae with you in more detail at an interview. In the meantime, please do not hesitate to contact me if you require further information.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Sally Scott
Yours sincerely.
Assignment:
Just imagine you need to write an application letter for the position in a company you have been dreaming to be employed since you were a graduate. Following the tips and the example letter presented make up your own one.
Interview
Like getting married or moving house, a new job can change our lives and this means that a job interview is very important. It is when the interviewer must decide who the best person is for the job. So, if you want the job, it seems like a good idea to help the interviewer to find out you are the best, better than all other applicants. Yet some people do nothing and seem to think that if they want job, that is a good enough reason for it to be theirs.
Here is some advice about job interview.
1. Find out about the company before the interview.
It’s a good idea to apply for company which can give you a range of experience.
2. Make sure you have a clear idea of what type of job you want.
Before the interview decide why you would be good for the company.
3. During the interview try to seem relaxed and friendly.
It is a good idea to look at the interviewers. Make sure you tell the interviewer if you are good at organizing your work or working in team.
4. Try to make sure you arrive in time for the interview.
5. When the interviewer asks a question try to think of some relevant to say.
Careful preparation is again important and has the following main stages:
a. Introductions and explanations.
b. Questions asked of you.
c. Questions you ask
d. Conclusion
Warm up
Think and talk about these questions.
- Have you ever had a job interview? If so, did you enjoy the interview? Why? Or why not?
- What do you think interviewers enjoy or don’t enjoy about interviewing people for a job?
Useful language to keep in mind to get ready for an interview.
Skills
What are you good at? | People say that I am good at… My main skills are… |
Experience
What did you learn from your last job? What didn’t you like about your last job? | I learned how to …. Well, I had a problem with… |
Interests
What did you do in your free time? What are your main interests? | I really enjoy… I spend a lot of time… |
Future plans
What do you want to do in the future? | My main name is to … |
Ex.1 Here are some questions that are often asked in job interviews (1-5). Match each one with the best answer (A-F). There is one answer that you won’t need.
1. What are your greatest strengths?
2. What are your greatest weaknesses?
3. Why do you want to work for this company?
4. What can you contribute to this company?
5. What are your career goals?
A. I sometimes spend too long thinking about alternatives before I make a decision.
B. I have plenty of experience of managing projects, and that fits your way of working.
C. I know there will be an opportunity to learn more about production.
D. I have a degree in business studies and a certificate in management
E. I work hard and I manage my time well. For example, every Monday morning I plan what I need to do that week.
F. I’d like to get experience and become a manager within the next five years.