Writing a cover letter

Before writing your cover letter make sure you have written or updated you CV first. Also, research the target organization/business. This way you can include information or facts relating to the position and the industry. This will help you write a relevant cover letter and will also be useful if you get an interview. 

Layout

Include your address at the top (right hand corner) roughly 1 inch from the top.

Enter the date four lines beneath, then another four more lines down, and enter the person you would like to address it to and the name and address of the company. It is better to address the letter directly to the person, rather than using “to whom it may concern “

The main body

The cover letter should be written in roughly 3 paragraphs.

The first paragraph should tell the employer in a few sentences, the purpose of you writing to them. State the position you are applying for but make sure you avoid standard openings. The opening should interest the employer.

In the next paragraph, you should match your qualifications to the job requirements. It is important to let the employer know you can contribute to their goals, rather than specify what you want to get from the position.  You can show this by using what you have researched in the previous steps, and try to convey enthusiasm and desire to help. Using this will also show the employer that you are keen and well prepared having conducted the research.

The final paragraph is very important, you must include a positive statement or question that will make the employer take action. This paragraph can be kept short, roughly 2- 4 sentences long.

Direct the employer to your enclosed CV and make your availability known and welcome them to get in touch. This way, the employer will know when he can contact you. Don’t forget to thank the employer for their time and consideration.

If you have addressed the letter directly to a person, always conclude with “Yours sincerely” or “Yours faithfully”. If you have addressed using “Dear Sir/Madam”, use “Regards”.

Leave four blank lines for your signature.

Essential: Proof read

Ensure there are no spelling mistakes; check your grammar and punctuation.

Break down contractions (e.g. “I’ve” to “I have”)

Make sure the letter is less than 1 page long.

Avoid colloquial writing, this makes it informal. You need to sound professional and educated.

When reading the letter, the employer should think you are upbeat, professional and informative. They want to know what you will do for them. Get someone else to read your letter and see if they can help.

A good cover letter should highlight the key areas from your CV. Be careful not to reiterate every detail.

For each application, you should always write a new cover letter relevant to the job you want to apply for.

Always request an interview.