By Rachel Lamb . 12/07/2018 · 11 Minute read
When it comes to applying for a new job, there are two things you’re almost guaranteed to be asked to provide. Firstly, a CV and second, a cover letter – the latter often being the more intimidating of the two. But have no fear, this is far from an impossible task when using our handy little guide!
You might have seen our advice on how to nail your CV? Well, this guide completes the set, delving into how to make your cover letter catch the eye of employers so they’ll be all but begging you to come in for that all-important interview.
So, from the top…
When writing a cover letter, you ideally want to begin by addressing the employer’s name, for example, ‘Dear Mr/Ms…’. Alternatively, if you’re not sure of their name, start with ‘Dear Sir or Madam’.
You then want to explain why you are writing, for example: ‘I am writing with regards to the position you are advertising for…’
Paragraph One
Next, it’s time to entice the employer and start by explaining why you are right for the job. Detail what skills and experience you have that are relevant to the position; it may also be worth establishing the personality traits you possess that you think will go hand-in-hand with the role.
Remember to link your points to those in the job description, even if it’s only a tenuous link.
It’s also a good idea to do some research into the faculty you’re applying for – any significant achievements they’ve had, areas they specialise in, trends etc. In doing this, you will prove how serious you are about the role and have more ways to connect your skills and experience. You can then use these details as talking points during your interview.
This information can be found on the faculty’s website, social media or by looking into articles related to them.
Paragraph Two
Now that the employer has got to know you somewhat, it’s time to go into what makes you stand out from the other people applying for the job.
This next section is where you’re going to write the things that only you can bring to the job. You want to tell them precisely what puts you above the rest (without literally saying ‘I’m better than everyone because…’).
Perhaps it’s your unique combination of past skills and experience or a personal link/interest you have with the job on offer.
This can be seen as one of the most challenging sections as people like to be modest; however, if you put your head to it, you are bound to find something – even if it seems small.
Paragraph Three
Your final section summarises why you are interested in the job and what makes you the perfect candidate for the role, rounding up the previous points you have made. You want to leave the employer without a second thought on whether they’re going to ask you to the next phase in the interview process or not.
Sign-off
Finish your letter by thanking the employer for their time and saying that you look forward to, hopefully, seeing them in an interview and speaking in person.
If you began your letter by addressing the employer by name, you should sign-off as 'Yours sincerely', otherwise you should write ‘Yours faithfully’, followed by your name.
Put the cherry on the cake with these final pieces of advice…
To make your cover letter stand out even more, try to include the following points:
- Make each cover letter you write unique – yes it takes longer, but it’s worth it as an employer can see the difference.
- This is a highlight of your CV – don’t just re-write the information you wrote there, only what’s relevant to this particular job.
- Keep it between ½ and ¾ of a page so that the person reading it doesn’t lose any interest.
- Make sure the contact details you provide are up to date and ones you will respond to. Check, check and triple check your spelling and grammar so you can demonstrate your attention to detail. Why not get someone else to read over it for you?
- Don’t jeopardise your chances because the employer can’t open your document in the format you’ve sent. The safest options are a Microsoft Word document or PDF file.
- Don’t get fancy with your font, make sure it’s simple and easy to read. Calibri and Arial are safe choices, and you should select either size 11 or 12.
Speak to your consultant if you’d like further assistance with your cover letter – they’d be more than happy to help! Don’t yet have a consultant yet? Give us a call on 01531 2888 to register and find out more.
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