Cover letter

The cover letter is a brief introduction about you.  It should be a maximum of one page only.

* Firstly, read the job ad carefully and underline any ‘key words’ ie attributes and characteristics that explain what the employer is looking for in a person.

* When writing your cover letter, make use of these ‘key words’ to explain your skills and experience. It is important to demonstrate that you have read and understood the job advertised and that your skills and experience match their requirements.

How to compose your cover letter:

1. Address the letter to the appropriate contact at the company, instructions on who and how to apply will be included in the advertisement. If no name of a person is given then address the letter ‘To whom it may concern,’.

2. Let them know which job that you are applying for. You need to include:

a) The position title (for example Junior Office Assistant)

b) Where you saw the advertisement and the date it appeared

c) A reference number (if one is included on the ad).

3. Follow on by explaining a little bit about yourself, include a brief mention of any relevant work experience or skills you have that can apply to this role.

4. Explain why this particular role interests you – keep it brief.

5. In a short sentence describe the type of person you are for example, hardworking, keen to learn, enthusiastic, enjoy working as part of a team etc.

6. Include a mention of how they can get in contact with you in case they would like to discuss your application further.

7. Finish with a Thank you.

For example, ‘Thank you for your time and consideration and I look forward to the opportunity of meeting with you’.