Getting Started on Your Job Search

Begin by working out the kind of job you want and the interests or skills you already have. Jot down a list — for example, working with computers, working with animals, being organised — and use it to match yourself to particular fields or roles. The next step is deciding where and how to hunt for a job.

Speculative letters

A covering letter responds to a specific advertised vacancy. A speculative letter, by contrast, goes straight to a company to ask about work that fits your skills. Sending speculative letters to firms that interest you is worthwhile — you may have exactly the qualifications and skills a vacancy needs. And even when nothing is open right now, plenty of employers would rather look through their stack of speculative letters than pay for advertising.

Some estimates suggest that over 50% of vacancies are never advertised, so it always pays to approach an employer directly and ask what opportunities exist.

Writing a speculative letter:

• Research - this means learning about the job openings or companies that suit your skills and interests. Start with your local paper for job adverts and for articles announcing firms moving into the area or expanding, since those are likely to be hiring extra staff. Your local library or the Yellow Pages can help you track companies down.
• Content - Once you have found a company you would like to work for, call them, explain the type of job or department (for example accounts) you are asking about, and find out who handles recruitment. Be sure to note the full name and job title of that person — and check the spelling! It shows you have done your homework and want to make a strong impression.
  
  Write your speculative letter so that it is as tailored to the company as possible. It should set out the main reasons you want to work for that firm or organisation. Align what you can offer with the company's work and bring out your strengths, qualifications and experience. Remember to enclose your CV with the letter.

Tips for laying out your letter

• Print your letter and CV on white A4, 80g paper
• Keep the page margins equal, for example 2cm on each side
• Write on one side of the paper only
• Add the company address and the date
• Open with Dear + the name of the person you are writing to
• Close with Yours sincerely and type your first and last name
• Sign the letter by hand with your name
• Choose a clear, readable font and size, such as Arial at size 12
• Check your spelling and have someone else read the letter over before you send it.