PLEASE can someone help me write this letter

[flashingnose]

I have complete writer's block, I just can't seem to get this letter started.

I haven't worked for 7 years and am looking to return to the field I worked in pre children. I want to write to local companies to see if they'd be interested in seeing me - I'd only want part time and ideally want to work from home plus my skills obviously need updating and I might need a bit of retraining and I need to work everything round my three kids. However, I don't want to mention any of this - I just want to write something quite vague to accompany my CV but I CAN'T DO IT - AAAARGH!!!!

Help!

[Twiglett]

Personally I'd phone each company first and ask who would be the person you should speak to

then I'd speak to them and ask if they are planning on recruiting in your field

at which stage they'll probably say send me a cv, when you can start the letter 'further to our conversation'

before phoning jot down some salient points

x years of experience
looking to re-enter the field after a short career break
keen to find a good local firm and you have heard great things about them especially x, y and z

HTH

[Twiglett]

tbh I have been flailing around recently thinking I might like to consider working again in the next few years but I am feeling totally useless and unemployable so I probably shouldn't be giving advice

but oh the joy of having distance from the actual problem makes it so much easier

[roisin]

You need to really think positive and sell yourself. Try and see it from their perspective. I don't know what field you work in, but think about what you can offer them.

So for instance if you are working in admin, you could start off with something like ...

Are you drowning in paperwork? I can help bring order to your office ...

As far as the hours are concerned, I would just say At the moment I am available for work for up to 20 hrs per week (or whatever), and then negotiate from there at interview.

What sort of skills need updating? Is it possible for you to go on a course to update these in advance. That would improve your chances, and September is a good time for many courses.

A good ending (IMO) is
If you would like to discuss the possibilities further please contact me by phone, email, or letter.

[LittleMissNaughty]

My MIL in is in Human Resources so I have it drummed into me how to write a proper CV and covering letter.

Basically, you have to say in the first paragraph what you are applying for and why. e.g. I am applying for this job as an Engineer as I have this qualification and this many years experience. Refer to your CV and talk about specific experience.

In the second paragraph, talk about why you are suited to the job (mention your skills such as communication, team-player etc...).

In the third paragraph, something like 'i would appreciate the opportunity to discuss this further and am available for interview at short notice'.

Hope that helps.

[roisin]

I actually got a part-time job a couple of years ago through exactly this approach, after a break of 6 yrs, in an area of very high unemployment. So it is possible! Think positive Good luck!

[roisin]

Oh another thing, buy some expensive high quality paper and envelopes - not white - cream or off-white, it really makes you stand out from the crowd.

And research your companies as much as possible, but do send a LOT of letters. Many on-spec letters go straight in the bin and very few are successful. So you need to try and detach yourself a bit from the process.

[LittleMissNaughty]

Oops sorry flasingnose, I didn't realise you were doing speculative applications. It is a good idea to ring the companies first and then you can follow up with a letter.

[flashingnose]

Thanks for all the speedy responses . Will let you know how I get on!