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Why is it important that your CV be accompanied by a cover letter?
- First, the majority of people do not send cover letters with their CV, so just by sending one will help you stand out. It is all about getting noticed and leaving a lasting impression with the reader.
- Second, a cover letter allows you to quickly detail why you are qualified for the role being applied for, what you can bring to the company and why you are right for this role.
- Third, a cover letter is used to introduce you as a person and allows you to add a personal touch.
- Fourth, and probably most importantly, a cover letter gives you the chance to sell yourself.
What needs to be included in a cover letter?
- Demonstrate knowledge of the company – this helps to build rapport with your reader.
- Explain your background, experience and how you can contribute to the company at this particular time.
- Summarise your experience. Include your most relevant skills and emphasize your most relevant achievements i.e. those most appropriate to the job being applied for.
- Highlight the most important points from your CV. Ensure you reword sentences and do not copy sentences verbatim from your CV.
- Persuade the employer that you are confident you can do the job.
- Convey enthusiasm – enthusiasm sells.
- Explain what appeals to you about both the role and the company.
- State when follow up will be. This will help set you apart from other applicants and will show your enthusiasm for the role. But, you MUST then follow up.
Important tips when sending out a cover letter
- The letter MUST be personally addressed to someone by name. Again, most people do not take the time to do this. More often than not, all it takes is one simple phone call. This shows that you have taken time to research the role, it displays interest and it also allows you to then follow up your application.
- It must be laid out as a standard business letter. If you are applying for a specific vacancy, include the Job Reference.
- Your letter should not be more than one page long. There is the tendency to write pages and pages, but you will just lose the reader. Keep words, sentences and paragraphs short. It is recommended that there should be no more than four or five paragraphs, or 200 words.
- The letter should be printed on a good quality paper, typically 100gsm in weight and watermarked. Ensure that the stationery used for your CV and Cover Letter are the same.
FAQs:
Can I have one letter that I can send out to all jobs I apply for?
Yes, but the letter needs to be adapted to the role being applied for. Although this is time consuming, it will significantly increase your chances of being invited to interview. Use your cover letter to bring out your matching skills and credentials.
What if they require salary details?
There is some contention about this issue. It is our recommendation, however, that you leave salary details off your letter, especially if there is no mention of salary on the advertisement. It can take you out of the running before you begin. If you decide to include your salary, do not provide specifics, as this will weaken your negotiating powers later on.
What if I do not have all the skills they require?
Do not draw attention to skills that you may lack. Focus on what you do have and on any other skills or experience that would be an added benefit.
What if the advertisement does not request a cover letter?
It is still recommended that you send one.
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