How to write covering letters
A Covering Letter should accompany every CV. You may also prefer to include one with your completed application form.
This type of letter is designed as a pointer to information in your CV or application form. It attempts to 'sell' you to the reader by drawing attention to your particular experience or skills which will be useful to the company. If you get the employer's attention with a good covering letter, this will encourage him to read your CV in more detail.
Some simple rules
- A Covering Letter should be no more than one side of an A4 page. Don’t cram in too many words.
- It should include your name, address and the date. If you have a telephone contact number then you may include it.
- It must be addressed to the contact name or position as stated in the advert and include the company’s name and address.
- The body of the letter should be to the point. Mention the job, where you saw the advert and add a short paragraph to indicate your suitability for the position.
- Apply positively for the job, write "I am applying for…"do not write '...wish to apply', '...wish to be considered' or '...like to apply'.
- Be grammatically correct, concise and to the point. Do not write in long, complex sentences as they will be difficult to read.
- Remember to sign your letter.
Take a look at a Sample covering letter.
