Writing a Cover Letter
What is a Cover Letter?
If you are applying for a job, a cover letter should be sent along with your CV. Cover letters give you the opportunity to introduce yourself and sell yourself. In a cover letter, you can explain to the employer why you are the best candidate for the job. This is accomplished by emphasizing relevant skills and experiences; therefore, you should tailor your cover letter to the position you are applying for.
Cover letters should not be confused with personal statements for your CV. They should complement, not duplicate, it. There has been a general consensus among recruiters that shorter is better when it comes to the length of these documents. A cover letter should not exceed one A4 page and should typically consist of three to five short paragraphs.
Putting it Together
Do your research
It is important that you do your research before you write your cover letter. Despite the importance of reading a job description thoroughly, doing so isn’t always enough. To write a successful cover letter you should research the organisation, its culture, and the industry it operates within. If you can learn about their main competitors and their market position this will benefit you when it comes to the interview.
Address it to the right person
Try to get the name and details of the person who’s hiring for the role. this means you’ll be able to personalise your cover letter to them. You’ll need their name and preferred title, for example; Dr, Mr, Mrs, Ms, and their job title.
Whenever possible, address your letter by name. If there is no name on the job advertisement, you can check the company website. You might be able to find a hiring manager, a department head, or the head of human resources. The best way to start your letter is with ‘Dear Sir or Madam’ if you cannot find a name.
Signing off
Make sure you end your letter with ‘Yours sincerely’ if you are writing to someone by name. It is ‘Yours faithfully’ if you address your letter to ‘Dear Sir or Madam’.
Cover Letter Structure
Cover letters should be structured over three parts:
- Introductory Paragraph – You should state your purpose for writing the letter in your opening statement. You should start by stating what position you’re applying for, where you saw it advertised, and when you’ll be available to begin.
- Skills Paragraph – Show how your experience matches the job description’s specific requirements. Outline any additional strengths you possess and how they can benefit the company.
- Closing Paragraph – Cover what attracted you to this particular role, and why you’re interested in working for the company. Try to align your values with company values to show you’re a good fit. This is an ideal time to show off your expertise of the company.
Careers information, advice, and guidance
Cover Letter Tips
- Every time you apply for a job, you should tailor your cover letter to the company. You will rarely receive positive results if you send out one generic letter with all applications. Recruiters can tell the difference right away if you do not put in the effort.
- Your unique selling points are your USPs. Be confident about your abilities and explain how your skills and experience match those required by the job description. Make clear why you are an ideal candidate.
- In order to make your cover letter stand out, it must be formatted properly. You should keep your document as uncluttered as possible, use the same font and size you used for your CV, and if you plan on mailing or handing it in, use good quality plain white paper.
- Show examples of your skills and experience in your cover letter to back up your claims.
More Career Resources
Our CV Writing page guides you through everything you need to include.
Or visit our Career Hub to view all of our career information and advice.
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