communication skills
interpersonal skills
organisational ability
I was responsible for
…co-ordinating
…developing
…implementing
…initiating
…monitoring
My work involves …negotiating
…organising
…setting up
…devising
…managing
I can work/perform well under pressure.
I am willing to take the initiative.
I have a proven track record in…
I have extensive knowledge of…
I have wide experience in/of…
I am able to delegate…
I can work effectively in a team.
I am fluent in…
I have a good knowledge of…
B) Complete the letter using words and phrases from the Useful Language box. The letter in brackets indicates which column you should check to find the correct word or phrase.
Dear Ms Walker,
I am writing to apply for the position of Managing Director which you advertised in the International Herald Tribune, dated 22April.
I am currently employed as Marketing Director in a medium-sized cosmetics company. However, I am seeking a position which will offer a greater challenge and more responsibility.
In my last job, I was responsible for developing a sales strategy for the firm and for ___(B) the work of the advertising, sales and marketing personnel. I was also involved in ___(B) contracts with overseas agents and distributors, setting their sales targets and ___(B) their performance. In the last six months, I have been engaged in ___(B) franchising networks in Eastern Europe.
I have ___(C) in the cosmetics industry, having worked for three companies dealing in health and beauty products. I think that I work well ___(C) as I have organised several product launches when I had to meet tight deadlines. Although I never avoid responsibility, I am able to ___(C) authority when necessary.
As for my personal qualities, I am a ___(A) person, with many ideas for exiting new products which would interest your company. Most people say that I am very ___(A), with the ability to motivate staff and get results. I consider myself to be extremely___(C) in English and Spanish, and I have a working knowledge of Portuguese.
I would welcome the opportunity to meet you to discuss my application at greater length.
Yours sincerely,
Gabrielle Gerard
Exercise 15 Select a job in business you would enjoy and make a list of the qualifications, skills, and personality traits that you think are important for that job. Give your reasons.
Example: In my opinion, a person who works in finance must be precise because making mistakes could cost a company a lot of money.
giving an opinion
I think, in my view, in my opinion, I believe
giving a reason
because, as, consequently, therefore, as a result
Exercise 16 Find the job ad and complete the first paragraph of an application letter. Then write two more paragraphs, explaining your reasons for applying and describing your skills and qualities.
I am writing to apply for the position of …, which you advertised in today’s Daily Informer. I am very excited by the opportunity you offer and believe that I have the personality and qualifications you are looking for.
