How should you write a cover letter? What should you include? What will help you stand out?
Writing a cover letter can be pretty daunting, however it is really important to get it right to ensure that your application is successful. The Guardian ran a very useful live question and answer session on cover letters which gives very helpful tips on what to include:
- Explain why you have applied for the job, what appeals to you about the role and why you would love to work for the organisation – make sure you tailor the covering letter to each of your application. Including some research into the company demonstrates you enthusiasm to work for them.
- Highlight why you would be suitable for job – relate your skills to the job description and person specification.
- Explain how you meet the employers needs
- Employers don’t have a lot of time to look at job applications, so cover letters should be short and succinct. It shouldn’t be any longer than an A4 page.
- It’s always best to address the cover letter to a named person. If not you can use Dear Sir/Madam, but you could call the company or look on their website to find a suitable person to address your letter to.
- If a job advert doesn’t specifically ask for a cover letter, it’s always worth writing an email in the shape of a cover letter anyway.
https://www.theguardian.com/careers/2017/sep/25/how-to-write-cover-letter-perfect-pitch
A final note is that it is always best to ensure your cover letter has no spelling mistakes or grammatical errors. Make sure you have read it through or ask someone to read it through for you. If you need any help or advice with your cover letter please don’t forget that we are always here to help!