How to write a cover letter?

What it is?  A cover letter is a document sent with your resume to provide additional information on your skills and experience.  A cover letter typically provides detailed information on why you are qualified for the job you are applying for.  Effective cover letters explain the reasons for your interest in the specific organization and identify your most relevant skills or experiences.

Why cover letter?  A covering letter generally accompanies a CV  An important part of an application – not just a formality  Highlights your key skills and suitability for the job clearly, concisely and positively  It’s targeted at the job/sector you’re applying for  It complements and develops the information in the CV rather than duplicates it  Career experts advice their clients to spend more time customizing their cover letter.

Points to remember  Why you’re writing  Why do you want to work for this company?  What’s your motivation for wanting job?  Illustrate understanding of the job role  Provide evidence of relevant skills/experience

Opening paragraph  Why are you writing? -Responsive – name the vacancy; -Speculative - be clear about what you’re asking for  Who are you? - A multimedia/Networking/Computing undergraduate looking for a work placement in ………

Middle paragraph  Why them and why that job/industry? - Demonstrate knowledge of the organization - Why are you interested – What is your motivation?  Why you? - Why should they consider you? - What key skills/strengths can you offer? - Support your statements/assertions with evidence

Closing paragraph  Polite ending – convey interest and enthusiasm in the role -Should always end positively and look ahead to the next stage, for example, 'I would be happy to provide further information at interview' or 'I look forward to hearing from you'.

How should I present my cover letter ?  Maximum 1 side of A4  Tailored to the employer or job concerned  Consistent font size and type (and consistent with your CV)  Correct spelling and grammar  Formal “business letter” layout  E mailing – send as an attachment with CV

How to start and end?  A cover letter should include a heading to make it clear which job you're applying for and, following the introductory paragraph, it can take the form of bullet points or short statements.  It should also include your own name, address and contact details  Make clear which job you are referring to  Should always end positively and look ahead to the next stage

Resources for writing cvs and cover letters  careers  – careers advice/cvs and covering letters  - careers advice – applications and cvs  see a careers consultant