Help me with my application letter please?

[AfternoonsandChristmasLooms]

Ok, so I've got a bit more to add on the end but does this sound really crap? Does it look like I'm trying to hide the gaps in employment or does it look like I'm really shit at work! Bear in mind I'm 30 with a 6 year old son!

I would like to apply for the position of Administrator/PA whick was advertised in the .........

I am reliable, hard-working and quick to learn new skills. I have good communication skills and am computer literate.

I have an NVQ level 2 in Accounting and Pitmans Computerised Accounts Level 2 (First Class Pass) which I completed in 2001 at .......... I also completed RSA Integrated Business Technology Stage 2.

Following my NVQ I worked in the treasury department at ....... where I dealt mainly with bank reconciliation. This was a work experience post initially but I was also employed for 6 further months.

In 2003 I worked at HMP ........ as a procurement clerk, where I dealt with orders, invoices and petty cash.

I am currently working at (crappy shop), where I am a Customer Service Assistant. I have been in this postion for 5 years, since my return to work after my son was born.

TIA

Some employers will ask for a full CV, instead of/as well as an application letter.

Don't worry about exact dates in your covering letter - they just want a picture of your experience and qualifications to see if you suit their job specification.

No need to go into any detail about your family circumstances - it's unlikely they'll ask anyway.

In your letter, make sure you mention each of the qualities they say they are looking for, and add a few of your own strengths. I have included a couple of possible ones in some paragraphs below, based on your letter.

Your letter is a very pleasant one. If I were you, I would start with your most recent experience first:

re: your advert in xxxx

I believe I have exactly the qualities you are looking for.

'I have been working in (crappy shop) since xxxx, and have excellent organisational and customer service skills'

'Prior to that, I gained experience in a treasury department before moving onto a procurement clerk position where I was responsible for etc'

'I feel that my successful history in offices, plus my NVQ/Pitmans qualifications would be valuable to (name of company to which you are applying), as it is clear from your advertisement that you are looking for someone like me who is good with people, really well-organised, cheerful, positive and keen to learn.'

Hope this might help and the very best of luck!

Kitty (former recruiter for big company)

Oh thank you so much for that kitty! You made me sound really good!

Oh wow - that letter sounds fab!

I have just spent 3 hours this afernoon agonising over the supporting info bit on 2 applications!

Good luck afternoonsandcoffeespoons!