Writing Sample for Job Interviews?

I was recently laid off from my previous position exactly one week before Thanksgiving 2004. (Great holiday gift, right?) I'm not very successful with my job search but recently got some interviews. Two potiental employers have requested writing samples. I did not have any writing sample prepared at the time of the interview. Both employers (2 different companies/industries for similar positions) have said 'You really want the job, write a one page essay about why you want the job.' I found it very demanding and cold in that tone of voice.
Is there any resources on the net if any one know where I can see actual samples of business writing samples to show potiental employers?

Monster did not have any as I could not find any. The keyword search feature is no longer there. Or is there a format/guide to write one? Thanks.

Try doing a google advanced search for .edu domains; you may come up with some sites for career advising at universisites. They often post common interview questions and may have something on writing samples.

I had to submit a writing sample twice, but never about why I wanted the job. Maybe you can write about your strengths and how you are committed to this kind of work, and what you like about the industry.

Good luck. This sounds tough!

I found this on Colombia's website:

Writing samples

For many positions, a writing sample is required in addition to a resume and cover letter. This gives you the opportunity to demonstrate your ability to organize written material in a logical fashion. It allows you to display your vocabulary and your skill in selecting the most appropriate words or phrases to communicate ideas and information. Any position that requires writing may require a sample. These jobs range from editorial and public relations to paralegal positions.

There are no set rules when it comes to selecting a sample to submit. In most cases, you should choose a sample that most closely resembles the type of work that the job entails. For example, if you are applying for a research position, a paper that demonstrates your research abilities would be most appropriate. If you are applying for a newspaper job, clippings and sample articles would work best. If you are submitting an academic paper (or section of a paper), be sure to submit a clean copy. This copy should incorporate any corrections or improvements suggested by your professor.
The question most often asked is how long the sample should be. Again, there is no set rule. Generally, if no guidelines are given, submit a short, three-to-five-page sample for a research job and one story of 1,200 words or less for an editorial position.

This might help too:

http://www.rileyguide.com/cover.html