Thorough

When looking for a job, it's important to leave no stone unturned. In addition, you should cast your net wisely, to ensure that you maximise the chance of each letter bringing you the offer of an interview.

I used to run a small (and I mean miniscule) computer business from my home address. I received a single application for a job that did not exist. However, I felt that the sender ought to receive something in return. This is what he received:

Mr Brian Elliott
xx Something Street
Boldon Colliery
Tyne & Wear

26th February 1999

Dear Mr Elliott,

I wish to commend you for the thorough attitude you obviously have to the process of finding a job. Not only have you managed to write to a company that has never advertised for staff, but you have also managed to write to one which has been out of business for over a year.

I apologise for the delay in writing to you, but the business address of The Computer Deli was also my home address and I have recently moved house.

While I cannot offer you any employment, I can offer you my sincere good wishes for the future. I am sorry that your letter to me was in vain, but I hope that your positive attitude will win you favour with another business in the area.

I wish you all the best for the future and good luck.

Yours sincerely,

Ashley Frieze. Ex Managing Director, The Computer Deli Ltd.

I had intended to offer him tips on why his C.V. might not have impressed me even if I had been offering jobs... but realised (with some gentle persuasion) that it was not my place to do so. I was genuine in my wish for his ongonig success. I hope he's in a smashing job now.