This has always been my problem with writing

[gemfyre]

Beginning and ending things. Middles just come to me.

AWC (Australian Wildlife Conservancy) have advertised a an admin position. Damn perfect. I want this job.

But I need a cover letter. And I have no idea how to begin. How to explain that yes, even though I have much interest and experience/qualifications in environmental roles, I am truly interested in taking up a mere admin job, because right now I WANT to do admin, but doing it for a law firm when I know nothing about law is shitting me. AWC however, if someone rang and asked me about stuff, I could answer their questions.


I have long admired the work of the AWC and have even had the opportunity to work closely with your organization. I am very keen to take up the role of receptionist within the AWC.

I have had experience in both administrative roles as well as environmental roles. During my time at Broome Bird Observatory I was required to take bookings, answer guest enquiries and manage the small shop. I believe my experience allows me to be a knowledgeable first contact for your organization.

As you will see in my resume, I have had experience in various roles involving both admin and environmental.

AWC is one of the main organisations I have aspired to work for. At the moment I am still recovering from a bad knee injury so I am seeking relevant office work instead of field work – this position is pretty much perfect.

I am currently working as a receptionist for a law firm but am seeking to re-enter my field of expertise.


Anyone really good at writing cover letters? *puppy dog eyes* I need to get this to them by Friday.

Comments

[(Anonymous)]

Name and address etc

6th August 2008

Re: Adminstration Assistant/Receptionist

Dear Jacintta Watts

I am writing to express interest in the above advertised position within the Perth office of the Australian Wildlife Conservancy. I believe my skills and experience combined with my passion and enthusiasm for conservation and the environment make me an ideal candidate for consideration.

Then address the document online briefly following the advice below
extract from their website re position:
Critical Competencies:
1. Strong telephone, email and personal communication skills.
2. Presentation must be professional and personable.
3. Self-motivated; ability to work independently.
4. An organised approach to work tasks.
5. Solid Microsoft Word and Excel skills.
6. An interest in the environment is highly desirable.
Experience:
1. Demonstrated ability to function in a team, shouldering a share of the responsibility.
2. Reception or other experience in interacting with the public is very desirable.
3. Experience in a small office administrative role is desirable.

Body - Explain what you have to offer the employer. Show that you've truly read the
role advertisement by drawing specific parallels between the requirements listed, and
your own proven abilities. Don't repeat your resume parrot-fashion; Just interpret
relevant pieces of it that you wish to highlight, and illustrate their relevance to the
position in question. Ensure that you are supporting your statements with specific
examples of achievements if possible, but keep the text reader-friendly (i.e. not too
long, and split out if necessary into paragraphs or bulleted lists).
Conclusion - Provide the practical information that the prospective employer/agent
will need to know (notice period, availability for interview, and possibly a guide to
salary expectations). Thank the recipient for their attention, and specify if you intend
to follow up.

Thank you for your consideration and I look forward to the opportunity .... blah blah blah...

Closing and signature
Quick-reference contact number

[gemfyre.livejournal.com]

Who are you O-Anonymous-Helpful-Person?

[(Anonymous)]

Would be interested in seeing how you go with writing it...he letter is as important as your resume...:o)
you don't know me...
Signed
A depressed nony mouse who reads an ex friends lj who is your friend...

[gemfyre.livejournal.com]

 I am writing to express interest in the position of receptionist at the Perth office of the Australian Wildlife Conservancy. I believe my skills and experience combined with my passion and enthusiasm for conservation and the environment make me an ideal candidate for consideration.

I have had varied experience in an office environment. During my time at Broome Bird Observatory I was required to take bookings, answer guest inquiries and manage the small shop. I worked as part of a small team of employees living at and maintaining the entire observatory as well as catering for guests, taking tours and providing information. My most recent job was working at a small law firm as secretary to two solicitors. I have had my own computer since 1994 and I am very familiar with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and Powerpoint) and I am an efficient typist.

I have held both paid and volunteer positions where I worked closely with native wildlife. I am knowledgeable on local wildlife, ecology, conservation measures and management of sick and injured wildlife.

I look forward to hearing from you and attending an interview. I can be contacted by phone at...

[(Anonymous)]

What other office experience or education have you had?

[gemfyre.livejournal.com]

All kinds of stuff, bits and bobs all over the place.

My resume is too long to post the whole thing.

[stephbg.livejournal.com]

I'm a big fan of the "I am interested" opening. Too tired right now to contribute further however, but Annie Mouse up there has done a nice job.