HOW TO WRITE A COVER LETTER
The opening paragraph
This should be positive, formal, short and attention grabbing, clearly explaining why you are writing to
them and informing them that your CV is attached. Try to avoid the same old tired opening lines, and
instead go for something that grabs the reader’s attention. Effective ways to do this include name
dropping, connecting to a common experience, or revealing some in-depth knowledge about the
company. To summarise, key points to mention in the first paragraph are;
▪ The position you are applying for.
▪ Where you saw it advertised, or how you came to find out about it.
▪ Your present job title.
Here are examples of some conservative opening sentences you could use;
‘I read with interest of your organisation’s plan to (…….)’.
‘I would like to be considered for the position of (….……)’.
‘I was very interested to read your advertisement for (………)’.
‘Further to your advertisement in (……..), I should like to apply for (….…..).’
‘With reference to your vacancy for a (……...).‘
‘Please find enclosed my application for the vacancy of (.………).‘
‘I am writing to you regarding the (………..) placement that was recently advertised, and would be
most grateful if you would consider my application for this position’.
The second paragraph
This will form the main part of your letter and it’s the bit where you can really sell yourself. Focus on
showing a recruiter how much they can benefit from your contributions to their company, and also
mention how you relate to the companies values and aspirations. Explain what you can offer them, try
to make sure that it is not just a list of what is in your CV but is individualised to the job application. A
good way to complete this section is take the essential criteria from the personal specification given
with the job advert, and then explaining how you full fill each one. Respond directly to the job advert /
description by illustrating how your skills and abilities match what the employer
wants. Concentrate on;
▪ Briefly describe your professional and academic qualifications that are relevant to the position.
▪ Key skills and experiences.
▪ If you’ve just graduated, focus more on the level of education you’ve achieved and your future
potential as a productive employee.
▪ If you are changing careers then focus on your transferable skills.
▪ How it fits in with your career plans, for example if you are applying for Sales positions do not
say that you want to to become an airline pilot.
The third paragraph
In this section specifically indicate why you are interested in the position by telling them what you are
impressed with and what attracts you to them. When explaining why you want to work for them, here
are some possible reasons you could give;
▪ The company’s reputation and brand.
▪ How the company is different from its competitors.
▪ List values that the company has and which you hold in high regard.
▪ How they are a exciting and forward thinking company.
▪ Detail how you see your career progressing if you were to get this role.
▪ Subtly flatter the company, for example ‘you are the industry leader’.
The end / Conclusion
Always end your cover letter on a high note. Conclude it by thanking them for their time and stating
your anticipation of their response. At the end you should also request action, like asking for a
interview or inviting them to contact you. If you are really keen on the position, then consider adding
a line saying that you’ll give them a call to see how your application is progressing. Other points to
mention include;