A cover letter is a document sent alongside your CV when applying for jobs. It acts as a personal introduction and helps to sell your application. A cover letter is necessary as it gives you the chance to explain to an employer why you are the best candidate for the job. You do this by highlighting relevant skills and experience; therefore, you should always write your cover letter with the position you are applying for in mind.
Not to be confused with personal statements for your CV, cover letters should complement your CV but not duplicate it. The consensus among recruiters when it comes to the length of these documents is the shorter the better. Typically, three to five short paragraphs, cover letters should not exceed one A4 page. If sending electronically, put the text in the body of the email rather than as an attachment, to avoid it being detected by spam filters. Applications should always include a cover letter unless the job advert instructs you differently.
How to write a cover letter
Keep your cover letter brief, while making sure it emphasises your suitability for the job. It can be broken down into the following sections:
- First paragraph – The opening statement should set out why you’re writing the letter. Begin by stating the position you are applying for, where you saw it advertised and when you are available to start.
- Second paragraph – Cover why you are suitable for the job, what attracted you to this type of work, why you’re interested in working for the company, and what you can offer the organisation.
- Third paragraph – Highlight relevant experience and demonstrate how your skills match the specific requirements of the job description. Summarise any additional strengths and explain how these could benefit the company.
- Last paragraph – Use the closing paragraph to round up your letter. Reiterate your interest in the role and indicate your desire for a personal interview. Now is the time to mention any unavailable dates. Finish by thanking the employer and say how you are looking forward to receiving a response.
Once finished, read through the document and cut out any unnecessary words and sentences. Do not fill up space by repeating what’s already covered in your CV.
How to address a cover letter
Always try and address your cover letter directly to the person who will be reading it. Bear in mind that you are more likely to receive a reply if you send it to the right person.
Advertised positions usually include a contact name, but if not, it is worth taking the time to find out who the letter should be addressed to. You can do this by searching the company’s website for details of the hiring manager or alternatively you could call the organisation to ask who you should address your letter to. Don’t be afraid to do this, many employers appreciate you taking the time and initiative to do so.
If you are struggling to find a named contact, you can use a general greeting such as:
Dear Sir/Madam
Dear Hiring manager
Dear Human resources director.
However, general greetings should only be used once you have exhausted methods of finding a named contact. How you sign off your cover letter depends on how you addressed it. If you include a named contact, sign off “yours sincerely”. If you use a general greeting, finish with “yours faithfully”.
Example of cover letter
Joseph Q. Applicant
123 Main Street
Anytown, CA 12345
555-212-1234
josephq@email.com
September 1, 2018
Jane Smith
Director, Human Resources
Fit Living
123 Business Rd.
Business City, NY 54321
Dear Ms. Smith:
I am writing to apply for the position of Social Media Manager for Fit Living, as advertised on your website careers page. I have three years of experience as a Social Media Assistant for Young Living, and I believe I am ready to move up to the manager position.
In your job posting, you mention that you want to hire a Social Media Manager who understands the Internet and social media trends. During my time at Young Living, I was given the responsibility of increasing follower numbers on Instagram. I explained to my manager that I would be happy to do so and that I would also work hard to increase follower participation because engagement has become an important metric.
Within six months, I increased our followers by over 50 percent and increased engagement by 400 percent. I’m very proud of that accomplishment. Currently, I’m working to build a following with the best influencers in our niche.
When I saw the job opening, I knew it was the perfect opportunity to offer you both my social media marketing skills and people skills. I have included my resume so you can learn more about my educational background and all of my work experience. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Please feel free to email me or call my cell phone at 555-555-5555. I hope to hear from you soon.
Sincerely,
Your Signature (hard copy letter)
Joseph Q. Applicant
