How to write a cover letter

Dear Sir or Madam, I'm /I am writing to apply/in application for the position/job of experienced Sales Manager advertised on the website of JobsForAll. As you will see from my enclosed/added CV, I am a 28-year-old graduate in Business and Marketing from Hamburg University, with five years of experience in marketing and sales with Audi AGF based in Bremen. My present job/current position is Assistant Sales Manages for the Bremen and Naidersachen region. I am/I'm interested in the post advertised because it seems to me to represent the opportunity I am looking for/seeking: to move into a large international producer of consumer goods. I am prepared to carry on/out various tasks associated to/with this position, including assigning sales territories, setting aims/goals, and establishing training programs for sales representers/representatives. Although my CV provides a summary of my background and experiences, I would appreciate the chance/opportunity to farther/further discuss my qualifications. I can be reached at 30/555-222 or v.may@hotmail.com. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hear/to hearing from you. Yours faithfully/Yours sincerely, Victoria May Enc: CV

What is the purpose of the cover letter? introduces you and your resume to an employer explains why you are writing or applying for the job details why you are a good match for the organization and the position draws your readers' attention to specific qualifications provides contact information and a plan for future contact

Paragraphing OPENING: State your reason for writing: position you are applying for, and how you found out about it E-MAIL BODY: Refer to one or two key points from your attached CV - they should be relevant for the position you’re applying for (your degrees/experience and current employment) What interests you about the position you’re applying for Highlight key achievements, skills and personal qualities that make you suitable for the position CLOSING: Request an interview, let your potential employers know when you are available for the interview and how you can be contacted Mention references (if you have attached any) or say who can be contacted as a referee Thank the reader for his/her time and consideration

USEFUL PHRASES To begin with: Dear Sir or Madam, To Whom it May Concern, Dear Mr White Dear Ms Jones To say that you have sent another documet with the letter: Please find my enclosed/attached CV. I have enclosed/attached a copy of my CV. To say that you will be able to contribute to the success of the company: I am confident that I would make an excellent addition to your team. My skills and knowledge are best suited to this type of organisation. I believe that my skills and knowledge will benefit your company.

USEFUL PHRASES To request an interview: I can be contacted/reached at the following address and will be available for an interview after (date). I will contact you during the week of (date) to arrange a time for us to discuss employment. I will appreciate the opportunity/possibility to meet and further discuss my professional experience and possibility to work for your company/organisation. To end the letter: I look forward to hearing from you. Thank you for your consideration. Thank you in advance for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Yours sincerely, Yours faithfully, Kind regards/Best regards,

Tips for writing a cover letter Keep your letter short and simple (“A straightfoward letter will get your message across more effectively than a long, wordy one”) Avoid using too many sentences starting with “I” Accuracy of language is of VITAL importance, so be careful to avoid any spelling, grammar or punctuation mistakes Avoid contractions (I’d, didn’t etc.)