SELL YOURSELF AND GET THAT DREAM JOB
AN impressive CV is all well and good but it is important to know how to write a cover letter that will catch an employer’s eye.
The cover letter is your chance to highlight your strengths and experience and relate them to the job you are applying for. In short, it is the opportunity to sell yourself.
HINTS AND TIPS
Introduce yourself: Explain why you are writing, making sure it entices the employer to read on. If you’re replying to an advert, state what you are applying for, say where and when you saw the advert and if there is a reference number, quote it. If applying speculatively, say what has prompted you to apply.
Always tailor your cover letter to the job you are applying for, show that you have researched the organisation and role and demonstrate how your experience meets their criteria.
A good cover letter shouldn’t be longer than one page of four or five paragraphs.
Where possible address your letter to a named person — this may mean phoning the business to enquire who is handling their recruitment.
Take the opportunity, if necessary, to explain any anomalies in your background, such as any time gaps. Perhaps explain how any hurdles you’ve encountered have helped you develop in a positive way. However, avoid any negative information, keep the tone upbeat and positive.
Whether your cover letter is speculative or an application to a particular vacancy you should explain why you wish to work for the firm and what you could bring to the role.
Think about the organisation you are applying to and alter your writing style accordingly. Creative jobs will want to see your personality and flair while corporate businesses will expect a more structured, formal style.
Last but not least — always check your spelling and grammar.
SELL YOURSELF AND GET THAT DREAM JOB
AN impressive CV is all well and good but it is important to know how to write a cover letter that will catch an employer’s eye.
The cover letter is your chance to highlight your strengths and experience and relate them to the job you are applying for. In short, it is the opportunity to sell yourself.
HINTS AND TIPS
Introduce yourself: Explain why you are writing, making sure it entices the employer to read on. If you’re replying to an advert, state what you are applying for, say where and when you saw the advert and if there is a reference number, quote it. If applying speculatively, say what has prompted you to apply.
Always tailor your cover letter to the job you are applying for, show that you have researched the organisation and role and demonstrate how your experience meets their criteria.
A good cover letter shouldn’t be longer than one page of four or five paragraphs.
Where possible address your letter to a named person — this may mean phoning the business to enquire who is handling their recruitment.
Take the opportunity, if necessary, to explain any anomalies in your background, such as any time gaps. Perhaps explain how any hurdles you’ve encountered have helped you develop in a positive way. However, avoid any negative information, keep the tone upbeat and positive.
Whether your cover letter is speculative or an application to a particular vacancy you should explain why you wish to work for the firm and what you could bring to the role.
Think about the organisation you are applying to and alter your writing style accordingly. Creative jobs will want to see your personality and flair while corporate businesses will expect a more structured, formal style.
Last but not least — always check your spelling and grammar.
