1.1.- Formal Letter of request or enquiry.

Content of a formal letter:

First paragraph: It should be short and state the purpose of the letter to make an enquiry, complain, request something, etc.
Middle paragraphs: These should contain the relevant information behind the writing of the letter. Most letters in English are not very long, so keep the information to the essentials and concentrate on organising it in a clear and logical manner rather than expanding too much.
Last paragraph: It should state what action you expect the recipient to take: to refund, send you information, etc.

Translation

Click here to read the Spanish version.

A letter of request or enquiry is written when you are approaching a company speculatively, that is, you are making an approach without their having advertised or announced a vacancy. These types of letters have the following contents:

Opening Paragraph: Introduce yourself briefly and give your reason for writing. Let them know of the kind of position you are seeking, why you are interested and how you heard about them.
Paragraph 2: Show why their company in particular interests you, mention your qualifications and experience along with any further details that might make them interested in seeing you.
Paragraph 3: Refer to your enclosed CV and draw their attention to any particularly important points you would like them to focus on in it.
Closing Paragraph: Thank them, explain your availability for interview and restate your enthusiasm for their company and desire to be considered for posts that might be unavailable.

Translation

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Feedback

Carta de petición.

Una carta de petición es aquella que se escribe directamente a una empresa para pedir trabajo sin que ellos hayan puesto ningún anuncio de vacante. Sus partes son las siguientes:

Párrafo de introducción: preséntate brevemente e indica el motivo de tu carta. Indícales qué puesto estás buscando, por qué estás interasado o interesada en dicha empresa y cómo les has conocido.
Segundo párrafo: indica por qué esa empresa en particular te interesa y menciona tu preparación así como la experiencia que poseas y que podrían hacerles estar interesados en ti.
Tercer párrafo: haz alusión al Currículum anexo a la carta y llama la atención sobre aquellos puntos que más puedan interesarles.
Despedida: da las gracias, explica que estás disponible para concertar una entrevista y reafirma tu entusiasmo en dicha empresa así como por qué te gustaría que te consideraran para futuros puestos.

Think about it

When was the last time you wrote a formal letter in your language? What for? Enter the forum and tell everyone about your experience. Did you need any help?