How do I write a CV envelope?

The envelope you place your curriculum vitae (CV) in must look as professional as the document itself. Format it correctly and include all of the necessary information to ensure it is delivered into the right hands. Your possible future employer's first impression of you will begin to form the moment your envelope lands on his desk.

Buy a C4 size envelope -- 229 by 234 mm (9 by 12 inches) -- that matches the colour of your CV paper. Don't cram or fold the document into a smaller envelope. Flat CVs are easier to read, and the C4 envelope presents your information to the employer immediately as he opens the envelope.

Print your address and the address of the employer on mailing labels. This makes your envelope appear more professional than if you used only a pen. Use a font size and style that makes the addresses easy to read.

Include the name of the person to whom the resume should be sent in the employer's address. If the job advert did not list a name, phone the company and ask for the correct contact name.

Put the name of the company on the first line of the employer's address. Then include the appropriate department name, if you know it, on the next line. Add the name of the contact person on the next line, typing "FAO" or "Attention" before the person's name. Include the street address on the next line, type the city or town on the next line, and then the county (if it's different from the city) and postcode on the last line.

Turn the envelope horizontally, with the envelope's opening facing to the right. Place your address label in the upper left-hand corner. Put the employer's address label in the middle of the envelope.

Ensure that you have enough stamps to post the CV. To be sure, take it to the Post Office so it can be weighed precisely. Put the stamps on the envelope neatly in rows.