Cover letter writing
Cover Letter Writing
Here are essential pointers to keep in mind when drafting your cover letter.
Understanding the Purpose
- A cover letter is your opportunity to introduce yourself and highlight your suitability for the job.
- It should serve as a complement to your CV, not a repetition.
- The cover letter is your chance to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the job and the company.
- It allows you to add more personal touches and interests that are relevant to the position.
Content and Structure
- Always address the letter to a particular person, if the name is not provided in the job advert, attempt to find it out.
- Express why you are interested in the specific job and how your skills and experience relate to the role.
- Make sure to mention the company and its work, indicating you have thoroughly researched the firm.
- Include instances from your past where you have demonstrated key skills required for the job.
- Close the letter with your contact details and express your eagerness to discuss your application in an interview.
Writing Style and Presentation
- Keep language professional yet engaging, avoid any informal language.
- Aim for a clear and concise writing style. Avoid unnecessary complexity or jargon.
- Try to keep your letter limited to a single page.
- Ensure the letter is free of grammatical or spelling errors - proofread multiple times.
- Maintain a logical flow, use paragraphs to separate different sections or ideas.
The Do’s and Don’ts
- Do make sure you tailor each cover letter for every job application.
- Do draw attention to your most relevant achievements and skills.
- Don’t copy wording from the job advert, instead interpret it in your own words.
- Don’t include any negative information about your previous jobs or employers.
- Do print your cover letter on clean, white paper if you are submitting a physical copy.
- Don’t rush your cover letter, it deserves time and attention to make the right impression.