How to Write a Perfect Letter Requesting a Full-Time Position

Making the leap from part-time to full-time employment is an exciting career move. As a part-timer looking to go full-time you’ll need to formally request that change from your employer. The best way to do it? With a well-crafted letter.

Writing a letter to request full-time hours shows the company you’re serious about the opportunity It also gives you a chance to highlight your skills and passion

But what exactly should your letter say? Here are some tips on how to write the perfect request to go from part-time to full-time.

Why Write a Letter for a Full-Time Job?

Job searching often happens online these days. You upload your resume to a website and wait to hear back.

But when asking your current employer for more hours, a letter can be more effective than an email or verbal ask. Here’s why:

• It’s formal. A letter shows this is an official request vs. just a casual chat.

• It looks professional. You can format a letter with your name, the date, the employer’s info, a salutation, etc.

• You can include key details. In a letter, you’ll have the space to lay out important info like your qualifications and availability.

• It allows you to showcase writing skills. A well-written letter highlights your communication abilities.

• You can print or email it. Your employer will have a formal document to refer back to.

• It gives you time to organize your thoughts. A letter allows you to carefully consider what to say.

So if you want to look like a consummate professional as you ask for more responsibility, a letter is the way to go.

How to Write Your Full-Time Request Letter

When drafting your letter, you’ll want to cover certain key points. Here’s what to include:

Your Basic Info

At the top of the letter, include your name, address, phone number, and email address. You can list your current job title too.

This info serves as a letterhead. It clearly shows who the letter is from.

The Date

Under your contact information, put the date you’re writing or printing the letter. Using the current date lets the reader know it’s a recent request.

Employer’s Name and Address

Address your letter to your manager or supervisor. Use their full name, job title, and the company address.

This ensures your request will get to the right person.

A Salutation

Use “Dear [Name]” and follow it up with a comma. This gives your letter an official tone.

Paragraph 1: State Your Request

Don’t beat around the bush. In your first paragraph, politely ask for a full-time position.

You can say something like, “I am writing to formally request a full-time position at [Company Name]. I believe my skills and experience make me an excellent candidate for this opportunity.”

This introduction gets right to the point. The manager knows exactly why you’re reaching out.

Paragraph 2: Highlight Your Qualifications

Next, explain why you’re qualified for and interested in full-time work. Provide details on:

• How long you’ve worked for the company.
• Your responsibilities and achievements in your current role.
• Any special skills, training, or certifications you have.
• How your work has benefited the company.

Backing up your request with evidence is key. You want to show why you’re the ideal candidate to take on a larger role.

Paragraph 3: Talk Availability

To convince the company you can handle more hours, discuss your schedule. Explain when you’re available for full-time work.

If your current part-time schedule wouldn’t allow full-time hours, note when your availability would change. Maybe you’re taking classes now but will be free in the upcoming semester. Briefly explain your situation.

This gives the employer insight into your time commitments. It also shows you’re ready to take on a busier workload.

Paragraph 4: Share Your Enthusiasm

End your letter by expressing how excited you are by the prospect of going full-time. For example, you could say:

“I’m thrilled by the opportunity to take on more responsibility and continue growing my career here. I love being part of the [Company Name] team and would be proud to represent this company in a full-time role.”

This ending reiterates your passion and motivation. It reminds the employer how much you want the job.

Closing and Signature

Finish with a closing statement like “Sincerely” and type your name below it. Adding your signature makes the letter feel complete. It also adds a personal touch.

Full-Time Request Letter Template

Want some help putting all these letter elements together? Use this sample full-time request as a template:

Your Name
Your Address
Your City, State Zip Code
Your Phone Number
Your Email

Date

Name of Manager
Manager’s Job Title
Company Name
Company Address
Company City, State Zip Code

Dear [Manager’s First Name],

I am writing to formally request a full-time position at [Company Name]. I believe my skills and experience make me an excellent candidate if any full-time opportunities arise.

For the past [amount of time] in my role as a [your job title], I have [responsibilities and achievements]. During my time here, I have also [contributions to company]. My background includes [relevant skills and training].

I am available for full-time work [detail your availability]. I’m excited by the opportunity to take on more responsibility and continue growing my career here at [Company Name].

Thank you for your consideration. I would be happy to discuss my qualifications further at your convenience. I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

[Your handwritten or electronic signature]
Your Full Name

This template allows you to easily customize your own letter. Just fill in the bracketed info with details relevant to your experience and work environment.

What to Include With Your Full-Time Request Letter

In addition to the letter itself, you may want to provide supplemental materials. Here are some options:

Updated Resume: Attach your latest resume detailing your work history and skills. This gives additional evidence for why you deserve the promotion.

Work Samples: Include examples of projects or writing from your current role. This shows the quality of work you could produce in a full-time position.

Reference Letter: A positive reference letter from a supervisor or colleague can help boost your application. Ask someone familiar with your work to write one.

Transcripts: If you’ve completed coursework relevant to the full-time role, submit academic transcripts. Seeing your course titles can strengthen your candidacy.

Any documentation showing your achievements or qualifications will help your case. Decide which supplemental items are most relevant.

How to Deliver Your Full-Time Request Letter

Once your letter is polished, you’ll need to get it into the right hands. You can:

• Print the letter and hand-deliver it to your manager. This adds a personal touch.

• Print the letter and mail it to your employer. The formal presentation can make an impact.

• Email the letter as an attachment. This is quick and convenient but less formal.

• Upload it to a job portal if the company has any internal postings.

• Send the letter through certified mail to have delivery confirmed.

Choose the method that makes the most sense based on your workplace culture and policies. The key is getting your request to your employer promptly. Follow up if you haven’t heard back within a week or two.

Things to Remember When Going From Part-Time to Full-Time

Switching from part-time to full-time is an exciting move. Here are a few tips to help manage the transition smoothly:

• Be prepared to take on more responsibilities. Full-time work often comes with amplified expectations.

• Make sure your availability truly aligns with full-time hours. You don’t want to make commitments you can’t keep.

• Have a plan for adapting if the company can’t accommodate full-time work right away. Can you take on extra projects while remaining part-time?

• Get details on how your pay and benefits may change with increased hours. Make sure the move makes financial sense.

• Update your supervisor on any changes to your schedule or availability, even after going full-time. Communication is key.

• Ask about opportunities for continued training and career development in your new full-time role.

With some preparation and communication, the shift from part-time to full-time can be seamless. Approach the change professionally, positively, and you’ll soon be on your way to an expanded role.

Good luck!