Preparing a Covering Letter

Your covering letter is the first impression you give to a potential employer. It can be used to target specific skills you have that meet areas of the job. You can use it to emphasise you personal fit with the organisation, and your passion and enthusiasm. It illustrates your interest and suitability for the job. The quality of your covering letter may even determine whether or not your CV will be read.

Always customise your covering letter to the job you're applying for. Emphasise why you want to work for this particular employer or organisation in this particular position. Let them know why they need you!

Make sure you address the person specifications and criteria set out in the job description. Focus on the skills you would bring to the role and convince them of your ability to excel in the position. Highlight the most relevant parts of your CV without repeating yourself.

Use formal language in the letter and ensure it uses the current business letter format. Try to keep to one or two pages, and don't forget to spell-check and proofread.

Example covering letter