How and Why You Should Write a Cover Letter

Many job seekers make the mistake of underestimating the value of a good cover letter and either don't bother writing one or write one that is just substandard. A cover letter gives your prospective employer a brief introduction about you and creates an interest in them to read your CV.

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Here is a basic guide on how to write a cover letter:

Start With an Address

Your address should be on the top right hand corner and followed by the address of the employer.
Name of Employer

Some people chose to write ''Dear Sir/Madam'' or even worse ''To whom it may concern.'' It is best if you do a little research to find out the name of the person you are writing to. It may seem like going to too much trouble but it is worth it as it makes the letter a little more personal. If you have tried your best but found no name then ''Dear Sir/Madam'' will do but avoid the ''To whom it may concern'' otherwise your cover letter is most likely going to end up in the bin even before they have finished reading it.

Why You are Writing?

You will need to get to the point straightaway, as most employers are very busy people. For example;

Dear Mr Smith,

My name is ……. and I am writing to apply for the ………. position advertised on ……….''

This is the opening paragraph and needs to catch the employer's interest to make them read further.

The Body of the Cover Letter

After the opening paragraph, there is the body. You need to give a brief description about your skills and qualification and a glimpse of your CV. Don't list down all the points in your CV or make the cover letter a duplicate of your CV. Just pick on relevant qualifications and skills or training that makes you good for the job.

Closing

In the last or closing paragraph, you need to request for an interview. Give your telephone number (if you have not included it in the address in step 1) or e-mail address. Tell the employer to contact you if they wish for further information. Finish the letter with ‘yours sincerely' and your name.

More Tips:

You could use search engines to find example cover letters but never copy them
The cover letter gives you a chance to sell your skills so don't waste the opportunity, tell the employer why they should employ you or why you are the perfect man/woman for the job
Check grammar, silly mistakes could give a bad impression
In today's technological world you could print off a cover letter or you could send it by e-mail
Ask friends or family to review your cover letter to see if it is all right
It does take some time and effort but the cover letter is worth it all


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