Covering Letters Chris Cardew

Salutation and complementary Examples of opening lines What will be covered? Format What to include? Salutation and complementary Examples of opening lines Examples of closing shots Putting it together Some advice

Fully blocked open style Format Business and official Fully blocked open style Indents and full punctuation are also effective

Own contact address and date Employer’s name and address Opening lines What to include? Own contact address and date Employer’s name and address Opening lines State the reason why you are writing Why they should be interested in you Closing shots

Salutation and complementary If you begin with Dear Mr so and so, end with Yours sincerely. If you begin with Dear Sir/Madam, end with Yours faithfully. If the recipient is female and you are unsure of her marital status, use Ms. Ideally, the letter should be addressed to a person rather than Sir/Madam.

Examples of opening lines I am writing with regard to … Please find enclosed … Having recently attended ... Further to your presentation at … As a student at xxx, I was interested to read…

Examples of closing shots I should be grateful if you would please consider my application favourably I would like to conclude by reiterating my enthusiasm for this position I look forward to meeting you to discuss my skills and the post in more detail I look forward to hearing from you

Putting it together Dear Mr Johnson Re: Job Ref AB123 I am currently a final year undergraduate on a Mechanical Engineering degree course at Swansea University. Please find enclosed my CV for the advertised management trainee position.

2nd paragraph As you can see from my CV, my degree study covers a wide range of topics and it has enabled me to develop my research, presentation and analytical skills. In addition, I have always worked part-time since starting university and I have learned the importance of effective communications, interpersonal and team-working skills; I have a good understanding of the world of work.

2nd paragraph cont. Furthermore, my involvement with the Nania charitable organisation as an executive member has provided me with excellent opportunities to develop my management, strategic planning and networking skills.

3rd paragraph I am highly motivated and a fast learner with a proven track record of completing tasks with good results. I am mobile and flexible and would be willing to take up positions both at home and abroad.

4th paragraph and closing I should be grateful if you would please consider my application favourably. I look forward to hearing from you. Yours sincerely (Mary Jobwise) Enc

Some advice The length of the covering letter should be no longer than one side of A4 Recruiters prefer a clear and well-typed letter Check content and spelling Sound enthusiastic Remember to sign letter and enclose CV See your careers adviser for further guidance

Any Question? Now you have a go!