ENTICE THEM TO ASK FOR MORE
THE main aim of a covering letter is to encourage recruiters to read your CV.
While a CV sets out the skills and experience you have, the covering letter more explicitly demonstrates your understanding of the employing organisation and nature of the job being advertised.
A covering letter gives you the opportunity to show how your abilities fit the vacancy.
It can be used to highlight parts of your CV that are your unique selling points or draw attention to information that doesn’t fit easily into a CV.
WHAT TO INCLUDE
Introduction:
Explain why you are writing, ensuring 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 quote the reference number. If applying speculatively, say what prompted you to apply.
Showcase experience and personal skills:
Briefly explain your current job and, if applicable, qualifications (professional/academic). Don’t give too much away or they may not want to read your CV. Draw attention to relevant aspects of your experience; say what you learned and how it would be useful to the employing organisation. Sell yourself on your personal qualities, making sure these match the requirements of the role. Take the opportunity to explain any anomalies such as time gaps.
The perfect team:
Explain why you wish to work for the company and what you know about them. Demonstrate enthusiasm and evidence of research into their successes, involvements, values or clients.
A positive sign-off:
Lay down an action plan; say you would like the opportunity to meet them for an interview and that you will wait for their response, or call in a few days (you don’t have to leave the ball in their court but be careful that you don’t pester them). Indicate your availability for interview.