Create a compelling covering letter

A covering letter should always accompany your CV and should demonstrate to an employer why you are the ideal candidate for the job you are applying for. It must explain why your experience and qualifications mean that you are perfectly suited to the role in question. You should demonstrate an understanding of the company’s needs and values.
Whilst your CV sets out your skills, your covering letter should explain your motivation and suitability for the role and should:

• Demonstrate to the employer your interest in and knowledge of the company
• Highlight particular parts of your CV that make you stand out
• Allow you to expand on relevant information that does not fit on your CV

Style

• The covering letter should be addressed to the appropriate person at the company. If you do not know who this is, do not be afraid to ring up the person who deals with recruitment and find out who this is (this will also demonstrate initiative and a willing attitude to your potential employer)
• You must demonstrate how you can contribute and how you can add value to your employer
• Your covering letter should not be longer than one page and should be set out with clear paragraphs

Content

• Briefly introduce yourself, state what position you are applying for and how you came to hear of the vacancy
• Explain why you are interested in this type of work and demonstrate your knowledge of the company and its needs
• Explain why you are interested in working for this particular employer and show enthusiasm for wanting to join their team
• You must explain why you are suitable for the role and provide evidence of your key strengths by referring to experience listed on your CV. Your key strengths should align with the requirements of the employer and position