General Training Writing Task 1 · formal · application

Application letter to Mr Moore for waiter position: IELTS formal letter sample

An IELTS General Training Writing Task 1 formal letter with a Band 8 sample answer, why it scores well and the phrases worth borrowing for your own letter writing.
  • 183 words
  • Formal letters
  • Application
  • 20 minutes
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The task

A restaurant has advertised in a newspaper that a waiter/waitress is required for evening work. It has also been mentioned that the prospective candidate should have some experience.

Write a letter to Mr Moore describing your previous experience and explaining why you would be suitable for the job. In your letter:

  • →how would you describe your previous experience in the hospitality industry to Mr. Moore?
  • →what specific skills and qualities would you highlight to demonstrate your suitability for the job?
  • →how would you express your interest in the position and request for an interview in a polite manner?

Write at least 150 words. You do not need to write any addresses. Begin your letter: Dear ...,

Model answer

Band 8 sample letter

Band 8183 words. Names and details are invented; write your own.

Dear Mr Moore,

I am writing to express my keen interest in the waiter position advertised in the local newspaper. With my background in the service sector, I am confident that I would be a valuable addition to your restaurant team.

Regarding my experience, I spent two years working at The Grand Bistro, a busy establishment in the city centre. During this time, I managed high-volume dinner services, handled customer enquiries, and ensured that food safety standards were strictly maintained throughout the evening shifts.

My primary strengths include an ability to remain composed under pressure and a keen eye for detail. I possess excellent communication skills, which allow me to build rapport with patrons, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. Furthermore, I am highly reliable, punctual, and comfortable working in fast-paced environments where teamwork is essential.

I am very enthusiastic about the possibility of working at your restaurant and would appreciate the opportunity to discuss my application further. Please let me know if you would be available for an interview at your convenience. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Yours sincerely,

Jonathan Sterling

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Examiner's view

Why this scores well

A Band 8 response addresses all three bullet points with specific, relevant details while maintaining a consistently formal tone. A common mistake at Band 6 is failing to provide specific examples of experience, instead offering vague statements like 'I have worked in restaurants before' without context.

  • →Write to an organisation or someone you do not know: open with Dear Sir or Madam, close with Yours faithfully.
  • →If you know the person's surname, use Dear Mr or Ms and close with Yours sincerely.
  • →No contractions, no slang; polite indirect requests such as I would be grateful if you could.

6 phrases

Useful phrases from the letter

  • keen interest

    a strong desire or enthusiasm for something

  • high-volume

    dealing with a large number of customers

  • composed

    having one's feelings and expression under control

  • build rapport

    develop a positive and harmonious relationship

  • patrons

    customers of a shop, restaurant, or service

  • at your convenience

    at a time that is most suitable

Frequently asked questions

Is this letter formal or informal?+

Formal. Write to an organisation or someone you do not know: open with Dear Sir or Madam, close with Yours faithfully.

How many words should an IELTS General Training letter be?+

At least 150 words, and 160 to 200 is the comfortable range. Spend about 20 minutes on it and leave 40 for Task 2, which carries twice the marks.

What does the examiner look for?+

A Band 8 response addresses all three bullet points with specific, relevant details while maintaining a consistently formal tone. A common mistake at Band 6 is failing to provide specific examples of experience, instead offering vague statements like 'I have worked in restaurants before' without context.

Keep practising

More application letters

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