What makes a good cover letter?

What makes a good cover letter?

A cover letter explains why you are applying for the job and should be no longer than three paragraphs. Use it to point out things in your CV that are relevant to the job you are applying for.

If you have a real interest in the company, or you have certain qualifications that are suitable for this job, then use your cover letter to say so. Your CV backs up what you have said with your qualifications and any experience.

Here are our top ten tips:

  1. Don’t just repeat what’s in your CV. Your cover letter is almost like a conversation
  2. Include details of why the recruiter should hire you
  3. Tailor your cover letter for each employer, highlighting relevant skills or attributes which are relevant to the job and the business
  4. Check your spelling and grammar. Ask someone else to check it for you too
  5. Use plain white paper
  6. When applying online, use your email as your covering letter, explaining what which job you are applying for
  7. Try to find the name of who to send it to, instead of just saying “Dear Sir/Madam”. This will show that you have taken the time to find out who will be reading it
  8. Explain to the employer why you want to do the job and how your skills can be used in this job
  9. Say when you’re available to start work
  10.  Thank them for taking the time to read your letter.


Go Back