Some companies usually ask for writing samples that you must include with your job application letter, especially for positions that focus on translating, writing, and editing written content; or for research positions. You can make sample writing effortlessly, and it can be done with just a few simple steps.
Step
Part 1 of 2: Choosing Sample Writing
Step 1. First understand the purpose of the writing sample
The company you're applying to is definitely looking for writing samples that show how you can organize and express your ideas. The writing sample should show that you can produce good written material that meets the standards for the position you are applying for.
Think of this sample essay as a test or one of the key elements in a cover letter. The company will examine the sample writing as a tool to measure whether you are eligible for the job or not
Step 2. Read the instructions for the requested sample text carefully
For example, a company may ask for a one-page sample piece of writing that demonstrates your ability to communicate marketing ideas effectively. If that's the case, don't submit a three-page article about the energy crisis, as this will waste time and show that you're not able to follow instructions. Submit a sample of the writing according to the instructions given. Companies often check to see if you understand the order given and whether you sent a sample that meets the criteria set by the company.
Some companies may not specify what type of writing they want. If that's the case, take a look at the type of job you're applying for and think about how you can demonstrate your abilities through the writing
Step 3. Choose a solid writing sample
When you decide which writing samples to use, choose those that are relevant to the job you are applying for and choose the best writing. However, this is not a must. If you are torn between two examples: the first is a very good but less relevant piece and the second is less good but more relevant, just submit the first one. Sample writing will show you to the best of your ability, and relevance will only be a secondary consideration, especially if the writing is already very good.
- If you have time, revise the second one for the better. So you can submit it, instead of the less relevant first post. This will show the company that you took the time to create relevant writing samples and demonstrate good writing skills.
- You can also create a sample writing for a specific job application. Sample writing may be necessary especially if work experience is limited and you are applying for entry-level jobs. For a salesperson position, for example, you can create a sample company product sales proposal to a client, or create a profile for a client. Or if you're applying for a research position, send in a sample college assignment that demonstrates your excellent research and writing skills. Coursework can be a great example of writing for novice applicants, especially if you take it seriously and the content is relevant to the position you are applying for.
Step 4. Don't submit samples of informal writing
Although the writing sample should show your writing style and identity, don't send samples that use informal language and casual conversations. Your writing samples should look professional and mature. Don't post blog posts or Facebook notes, unless the blog is professional and addresses issues related to the job you're applying for.
Submit the latest posts instead of the old ones. Old writing may no longer represent your current abilities-which should have developed for the better. Submitting old posts will also show the company that you haven't written in a long time and that your existing writing doesn't show your current writing skills
Step 5. Make a short but solid writing sample
Companies sometimes specify a maximum number of pages or attachments for a cover letter. If not specified, do not submit ten-page essays or fifty-page reports, as they are bound to have a limited time and will only read a few pages. The default number is two to five pages. Some companies even only ask for one to two pages of writing samples.
If you have a long piece of writing that you'd like to include, take the excerpt from it that shows the best part. One option is to take one section of the opening, body paragraph, and conclusion, with no more than five pages in total. In this way, the reader can still capture the entire content of the writing
Part 2 of 2: Formatting Sample Writing
Step 1. Check for grammatical and typing errors
Read the sample writing carefully. Of course, you want the results to be as well-written and perfect as possible. This is still relevant even if you're applying for a job that doesn't require in-depth writing every day, because there's still a chance you'll be emailing clients, and your employer doesn't want erroneous emails sent on behalf of the company.
One trick to editing text is to read it from the end to the beginning, to see misspelled words or grammatical errors. You can also ask a friend, partner, or family member to read it and see if there are any spelling and grammatical mistakes you might have missed
Step 2. Follow the format guidelines specified in the job posting
Many jobs specify formatting guidelines or include a short paragraph explaining an example of what kind of writing the company expects. Example: double space, include the page number in the lower right corner, write the name clearly at the front of the text or in the file name (if you send it via email).
- If you don't specify a format, it's a good idea to make a double-spaced example for easy reading, and don't forget to include your page number and full name as well.
- If you include a citation, provide a note informing that it is a quote from page X to page X, and write the topic of the article at the very top.
Step 3. Remove information that should be confidential from the sample writing
If you are using a written sample from a document that was created for a previous job, disguise the name, description, or numbers, so you don't reveal the other party's personal information. Do not reveal the secrets of the previous employer. Take the time to disguise or discard the confidential information, after all this will not be very essential to the content of the article.
Another option is to create a fake company name and match the location and type of business listed in the sample text, so you don't reveal any personal details
Step 4. Create a table of contents
Having a table of contents indicates that you took the time to organize and format your application. Include sample writings in the table of contents so that the company can access them easily.
