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Cover Letters

WHAT Are cover Letters?

A cover letter accompanies your CV. It is a statement about yourself and your suitability for the role you are applying for. It should be highly personalised and tailored to the job role you are applying for. It's an opportunity to sell your strengths and interest in the role, and ultimately to get you noticed. Below are some ideas to get you on your way to structuring your cover letter.

OPENING ADDRESS

Dear Sir/Madam,/ Dear Ms Smithson,/ To Whom It May Concern,

LETTER TITLE

Your Name - Interest in (Job Role)

FIRST PARAGRAPH- Introduce your Reason for Writing

Ideas could include:

I am writing to express my interest in the position of....
I wish to apply for the position of....
I am writing in response to your recent advertisement for...
I am writing to enquire as to whether you have any vacancies...
I am writing as I am very keen to gain work experience in....

SECOND PARAGRAPH

Introduce Yourself and Talk about your Education and Experience

Why are you interested in this type of work?
What attracts you to this company?
What are your future career aspirations?

Ideas could include:

I am currently studying for my A Levels in ...
In my current studies, I am predicted to achieve ... grades
As you can see from my CV, I have worked ... and gained experience in ...
I'm keen to work for you because...

THIRD PARAGRAPH

Explain how nature of your studies has prepared you for a position such as this one

Why are you the best person for this position?
How would you sum up your strengths and how they might be an advantage?
Can you relate your skills and experience to the job?

Ideas could include:

I feel I am suitable for this role as i have a great deal of experience in...
My first language is English, and I am fluent in German and Spanish
At present, I am working for ... where I am responsible for....

FINAL PARAGRAPH

Thank them for reading your application and for considering you
Offer to provide any additional information, references etc.
Include your contact details

Ideas could include:

Thank you in advance for your time. I can be contacted on (mobile number/email address).
I look forward to hearing from you at your earliest convenience.

SIGN OFF

Your sincerely (if you know the name - Dear Mr. Smithson)
Yours faithfully (if you are writing - Dear Sir/ Madam)

LASTLY, DON'T FORGET

Check your spelling and punctuation
Get someone to proof read it for you (this could be your tutor, a parent or careers staff)
Check you have the correct contact details for the recipient
Check you have formatted your letter well.
Have a look here for advice on what to avoid when writing you cover letter

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