In writing an application, you are virtually writing an advertisement for yourself. This means tailoring the information to the sort of job you are applying for. Employers have not got the time to read pages of irrelevant information and they will be more impressed with a short application that provides information related to the job.

In the selection process a number of details are used by employers to do the initial sort before they read in detail the applications. Here are some of the guidelines used by employers:

* Handwritten envelopes are sometimes put aside, so are envelopes with incomplete addresses or unnecessary abbreviations.

* Bulging envelopes are out - no time to read them.

* Use good quality paper and sending a letter by special delivery indicates initiative and keenness for the job.

* On reading the applications, employers usually begin with the statement emphasising the qualifications for a particular position. Don't use unnecessary details in your resume but emphasise the level of responsibility that you have assumed in the past or are willing to assume.

* Overdoing the special interests list can have a negative effect as it tends to sound false.

Your application should be error - free, neat, to the point and if possible convey some positive personality trait. For example, warmth, enthusiasm or whatever is suitable to the job. These last qualities separate your application from the rest.

Have someone check your letter of application before you send it. Always keep a copy, and if applying to an advertisement, pin the advertisement to the copy. It serves two purposes. Firstly, if you get an interview you have a copy of what you said to the employer. Secondly, having copies help when you are writing to other firms and you also can keep a record of who replies to your applications.

Your letter should create a good first impression so type it unless the application specifically asks for a hand written letter. Use good paper but not coloured. Make the letter brief and relevant to the job you are applying for. Greater details can be set out in your resume or curriculum vitea.