When you submit your CV for a job, your cover letter will be the first thing that the recruiter sees. As such, it is vital that you write a unique cover letter for each job that you apply to.
Whilst a CV is a tool used to showcase your skills, a cover letter showcases who you are as a person and how you will meet the company’s requirements.
It is important to always read the job advertisement for the position you are applying for and ensure that your cover letter matches the requirements of said advertisement.
A cover letter is a unique way for you to introduce yourself to your potential employer and leave them with something to think about after reading your application. It’s important to note that a cover letter is brief (about three to five paragraphs in length) and can be printed along with your CV application, or used as the body of an email for online job applications.
How to write a cover letter
1. Do ample research: In your cover letter, elaborate to your potential employer about the steps you have taken to learn more about the company and the position. This will show your eagerness and willingness to go the extra mile.
2. Ensure that your cover letter is sent to the right person: Always try to address your cover letter with someone’s name. To do this, ensure that you have the correct details of the person that you need to send it to. If you are unsure of their name, you can simply address them with ‘Dr’, ‘Mr’, ‘Mrs’, ‘Ms’, and their job title, or ‘Dear Sir/Madam’. Also ensure that you have the company’s correct name, address, and postal code.
3. Have a solid introduction: The introduction of your cover letter is a chance to introduce yourself and explain how you found the job. In your introduction, be sure to also include the job title or reference number (if applicable.) Should you be writing a cover letter to ask if there are any job vacancies, then be sure to explain what type of job you are looking for. (This is a great way to show the employer how keen you are to work for them).
4. Be sure to elaborate on why you would be the correct choice for the job: Highlight any relevant skills and experience that you have that could match the qualities the employer is seeking. Be sure to convince them that you are enthusiastic about the job and that you share the same values, style and culture of the company.
5. Explain to the recruiter why they should hire you: Once you have listed the reasons why you would be the ideal pick for the job, support it by listing relevant experience. Should you want this part of your cover letter to look neater and more professional, try listing them with bullet points.
6. Concluding your cover letter: Once you have finished all the previous steps, be sure to thank the employer for taking the time to read your application and considering you. Let them know that they can find more details in your CV and that you look forward to hearing their response. Let them know how they can best contact you and ensure that your contact details on both your cover letter and CV are correct and current.
7. Signing off the letter: A great way to close your cover letter is to write ‘Yours Sincerely’ followed by your name. If you addressed the letter to ‘Dear Sir or Madam’, be sure to end the letter with ‘Yours Faithfully’ and your name.
Tips for writing a cover letter
- Write a new cover letter for each job that you apply to and ensure that the letter is tailored specifically to the company and role.
- Maintain consistency by using the same font and size as that in your CV.
- Ensure that the company’s name and recruitment details are accurate.
- Use the correct language and tone, ensuring that it remains professional and matches keywords used by the employer in the advertisement.
- Show the research that you have done on the company and the job.
- Elaborate on your most relevant skills and experience, and how that stands out from your competitors.
- Proof-read your grammar and wiring before you submit it.
- Keep a copy of your cover letter for yourself, as they may ask about it in the interview.
Cover letter templates
To make it easier for you to draft your cover letter, here are some FREE templates you may use:
- Free cover letter templates on Canva
- Free cover letter templates on MyPerfectCV
- Free cover letter templates on zety
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