Cover Letter
Once you’ve prepared your CV, it’s time to highlight your achievements in the cover letter. In this section you’ll find some general as well as culturally specific tips about how to make your letter (and yourself!) stand out when applying for a job.
Presentation
- Leave space between paragraphs.
- Don’t use abbreviations.
- Use short sentences.
- Don’t start the sentences with the pronoun “I”.
- If it’s a cold-calling letter (not an response to an offered position), you should call the company to try and find the name of the appropriate person to write to.
- Direct the letter to:
- To Whom It May Concern
- Dear Sir/Madam
- Close the letter with:
- Sincerely yours,
- Best regards,
Content
First Paragraph
- State why you are writing and where you heard about the opening (from a newspaper ad, your school’s career center, or somewhere else).
- Indicate that you know something about the company and its excellent work.
- Let them know why you would be a good candidate by succinctly highlighting important achievements in past work and the relevant experience you have had.
- Try to engage the reader in the first paragraph. Make your letter stand out!
Make it personal; don’t give the impression that this is a standard letter.
Second Paragraph
- Give your reasons for interest in the job.
- Clarify what position you’re interested in.
- Emphasise your qualities that best fit the position.
Explain why are you interested in working for their company and how can the company benefit from your employment.
Third Paragraph
- Express interest in an interview and state your availability
Fourth Paragraph
- Conclude by saying you will call the contact person in the next couple of weeks as a follow up (and then make sure to call them), and express interest in having an interview.
- Indicate again that you are enthusiastic about the position.
- Finally, remind them how to contact you.
Sign the letter.