The covering letter is an essential part of the application process and many employers consider it to be as important as the CV or application form. It should be viewed as a way of introducing yourself to the recruiter and generating interest in the skills and experience you have to offer them. It also allows you to show a little more of your personality and enthusiasm for the role than would otherwise be possible in a standalone CV.

A strong covering letter is structured around a number of key areas; each adding further weight to your application.

First things first

The purpose of the first paragraph is to put you firmly in the running for the job and to clearly state your reasons for making contact. You should also mention that you’ve attached a copy of your CV or have included a completed application, in case either goes missing.

If you are responding directly to an advert, state the source (newspaper name, website address, job board name etc), the date the role was advertised and any reference numbers provided. If on the other hand, you are writing a speculative letter to an individual, indicate where you got their name and detail the assistance, advice or information you require.

Where you are now

Section two should briefly outline your current situation and indicate your reasons for seeking a change. Include details about your current or last job and relevant qualifications; tailoring this information to fit the requirements of the role.

What you have to offer

This section should clarify what you have to offer and explain why you are the right person for the job. You will need to highlight your transferable skills, achievements and versatility; show where you can add value and underline what makes you different. Mention any personality traits you have that are relevant to the role; make reference as to how they have made a difference in your career so far and how they can again.

When completing this section in response to an advert, read the ad carefully and make sure your skills respond to their requirements. You should also take account of any comments made by recruiters or recruitment consultants that clarify the skills required for the role.

Getting to know you

Tell the potential employer a little about their organisation to demonstrate you have properly read the advert and that you have done your research. This shows your commitment to working with them and that you haven taken the time to consider why you want to do so.

What happens next?

Make sure to close your letter with a polite expression of interest in discussing the role further – mention that you would like the opportunity to talk about your suitability at interview and that you await a response in due course.

DO…

• Include a personalised covering letter with every CV or application you send 
• Keep it short and factual - don't exceed one side of A4 paper 
• Mention where you saw the job advertised and include any job reference numbers 
• Refer to the CV you have attached - it might go missing and they'll think you haven't sent one 
• Explain why you want the job 
• Concentrate on telling employers why you would be good for the job, rather than why the job would be good for you
• If the job is in a different sector from those which you have previously worked, draw links and comparisons between the two 
• Demonstrate that you have done research into the organisation already: for example, mention that you have visited their web site
• Include any dates when you might be unavailable for interview. If you are able to take calls during the day, provide a contact number 
• Check that you have addressed your letter to the right person; that you have used their correct job title and spelt their name correctly.

DON'T…

• Simply send out standard covering letters to different employers for different positions 
• Underestimate the value of the covering letter – if your experience is lacking, it can increase the impact of your CV by drawing attention to your strengths and achievements
• Use overly elaborate stationary or fonts
• Be critical about your current or most recent employer.

Have you included a tailored covering letter?
 
Is it short, factual and less than one side of A4 paper?
                                     
Have you mentioned where you saw the job advertised and included any reference numbers?
 
Have you referred to your CV?
 
Do you explain why you want the job?
 
Have you said why you would be good for the job?
 
Have you demonstrated knowledge of the company?
 
Have you included your availability for interview?
 
Have you provided a contact number?
 
Do you have the correct contact details and are they spelt correctly?