Writing An Outstanding Cover Letter

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Cover letters are the first chance you have to impress a potential employer. Don't look at them as a support to your CV but rather see it as an opportunity for you to stand out from the rest of the applicants and persuade the recruiter to put you through to the next round of the screening process. It should be used to state the skills and experiences you have that are directly related to the specific job you are applying to. 

If you want it to be read and make an impact then make it personal and don’t use a standard template found on the internet. You may look at samples to give you an idea of what to write but you should not copy the whole content. 

What should I put in my cover letter? 

• State which job you are applying for, companies usually have more than one open position at a time! If applying via email, make sure you put the job title you are applying in the subject line. 
• Say why you are applying for that specific role, is it time for a career move etc. 
• Say clearly what it is that makes you suited to the role, is it your experience, skills etc. If so then what skills and experience? 
• Give the recruiter or hiring manager a reason to call you in for an interview!

How should I structure a cover letter? In the order that you should write them, you need; 

• To write an opening line (e.g. Dear Sir, Dear Mr XXXXX). It’s polite and professional.
• To name the position you are applying for and how you heard about the job.
• A brief sentence stating where you currently work, how much experience you have and what education you have attained.
• A short paragraph detailing precisely why you are suitable for the role. This section is where you really sell yourself to the employer.
• To request a meeting or interview, and say you are available at their convenience and don’t forget to include your contact details.
• Always include a final line thanking them or similar (e.g. Best wishes, Kindest regards, Salutations, etc.).