Cover letters
A cover letter generates interest in your application by highlighting your suitability for and interest in the position. Normally, a letter is written in narrative style, though point form can be effective for highlighting your best assets if done selectively. Employers will use the letter to assess your written communication skills so check grammar and general expression. Find out the name and position of the person to whom you need to address your letter as this displays your initiative.
Four steps to writing a cover letter
Step 1: Think about the job/company
- What does this organisation do?
- What is one current issue for this company or industry at present?
- What are the main skills or criteria the employer is seeking in an employee?
Step 2: Think about yourself in relation to the job
- What attracts me to this position/company?
- Where in my past experiences have I demonstrated the skills or qualities required?
- How can I challenge or confirm any assumptions they may make about me?
- Anything else relevant they should know eg availability, dual citizenships …?
Step 3: Write the letter!
Step 4: Before sending...
- Use the checklist below
- Get someone to proof read
- Make yourself a copy
top of pageChecklist
- Have I checked spelling, especially of names?
- Have I listed a phone number where a message can be left if I’m out?
- Have I removed all evidence of any previous recipient?
- Is the date accurate?
- Have I clearly identified the position I am applying for?
- Have I made any ‘empty’, unsupported statements about myself?
- Have I correctly followed any instructions specified by the employer? o Have I attached any necessary supporting documents?
- Have I signed my name?
- Have I printed it on one A4 page, white paper in font size 11- 12 pt? o Have I used adequate margins, single spacing between lines and double spacing between paragraphs?
- Have I used a conservative writing style and made use of key words? o Have I succinctly demonstrated why I am genuinely interested in this position/company and demonstrated my suitability for the position.
Sample cover letter
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Applicant's contact details
Date
Ms M. Employer
Recruitment Officer
Name of Organisation
Address
Dear Ms Employer
(Reference No. if applicable)
1. Nominate the job for which you are applying. Indicate the source and date of the job information. Provide details of any contact you have had with the organisation.
2. Mention your interest in the position and your reason for applying to that particular organisation. Mention the attached resumé or C.V.
3. Highlight the extent to which you match some of the requirements of the job, for example, qualifications, experience, qualities, and skills – focus on those that are unique and will help you stand out.
4. Outline any further points in your favour related to the job.
5. State your availability for interview and request an appointment to discuss your application. For unsolicited applications, mention that you will contact them by a certain date to follow up your application.
Yours sincerely
A. N. Applicant
A.N. Applicant
Attachments: resumé and academic results
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