The Cover Letter Master Class

Published 15 Feb 2010 09:47

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The cover letter is the first opportunity you have to impress an employer so best not treat it as a formality.

This is your chance to convey your suitability and enthusiasm for the role. It gives you a little used opportunity to impress by showcasing your knowledge about the company and/or its industry. Better still, show a personal or professional link between you and the employer.

For the employer, the cover letter says a lot about you: your ability to communicate, influence, degree of professionalism and attention to detail.

Cover letters are best produced for employers direct and not for recruitment companies.

3 Critical Rules

1. All covering letters should adopt a simple, concise and formal style. Most employers are conservative so play it safe.

2. Tailor every time and be specific.

3. Check, check and check again. Be meticulous about spelling and grammar.

Failing on any of the above will mean your application is consigned to the dustbin.

Tutorial Example

Dear Terry(personal and polite is best)

Short introduction specific to the job e.g. please find attached my CV in response to the Sales Executive role advertised on your website.

Paragraph 1 - Who are you?

Explain who you are, highlight relevant experience and skills. If you have a personal connection with the company can you name drop? Or offer something insightful about the company that attracts you, hence the reason for your application? When referencing your current employment, be positive.

Paragraph 2 - What do you offer?

What relevant achievements can you state and how do they relate to the vacancy? Make it specific, explaining how you saved a company £X, grew it by £Y, decreased staff turnover by Z%. Emphasise what you offer, rather than what they offer you. This is very important; many use wasted statements such as 'looking for a company who offers a genuine chance of career progression'. The employer needs to know your value, not what your long term aspirations are. Don't recreate your CV. Be selective and very specific.

Show enthusiasm and ask for an action, e.g. I'm very enthusiastic about the opportunity to work for Company XZY and will be delighted to meet for an interview. I can be reached on (mobile) or (email).

Sign off: Thank you for your time and I look forward to hearing from you.

Now that your cover note / letter is prepared its time to find the perfect vacancy, if your looking for a part time job outside of this area then please visit http://www.uktemps.co.uk or for a local position please click the job link at the top of this page.

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