cover letters and CVs - using i'm or i'd or they've etc

[joko]

i have always written cover letters without shortening any words and written in full

whats the general feeling on this these days?

there seems to be a general relaxing of these formal rules these days, but would you look down on an applicant for it? or would you not even notice?

i suspect most people dont even notice any more

cheers

[boxtops]

I would certainly not expect anyone to use abbreviations in any sort of business letter, which includes covering letters for job applications. I don't think there is any relaxation of the rules myself! and the letter and c.v. are what the person is judged on when considering the applications. If it's too chatty, it looks as if the applicant hasn't taken it seriously.
Emails are different, we certainly use abbreviations in them day to day, but if I were applying via email for a job, and attaching a c.v., then I would apply the same rules, no abbreviations.
I notice!

[DaisyNonna]

I would notice and disapprove. Relaxation is one thing, sloppiness another.

[Maydup]

With the fierce competition for jobs at the moment I wouldn't take any unecessary risks. I have had to look through a big pile of applications myself and every reason to reject comes into play when you have to reduce them down to a shortlist.

Especially important if the job you're applying for might involve writing letters or emails as any relaxations of the formalities might not be acceptable to their image.

[joko]

i was not suggesting chattiness or sloppiness...just use of things like I'd instead of i would, I'm instead of i am...etc

thanks i'll stick to full words

[boxtops]

Agree with you joko - no, abbreviations are too informal. Stick to the full words.