While your CV lists your achievements, skills and interests, your covering letter provides the opportunity to bring them to life and show how they fit the role you're applying to. If you're feeling daunted by the blank page, read our tips on what to cover.
1. Get off to the right start
If you have a named contact, e.g., Mr John Smith, use it. If not, why not telephone the organisation and ask them for the main contact? If you can't find anyone specific, stick to 'Dear Hiring Manager'.
2. Make your opening pitch
Include the job title or position you’re seeking (if you’re writing a speculative application) and where you found the opportunity. Briefly outline your credentials, and motivations for applying for the role. Make it powerful, punchy and concise. You can expand in more detail in following paragraphs.
3. Demonstrate that you understand the role
Explain how you meet (or exceed) the job criteria, and show that you possess relevant experience and skills based on past experience. Give concrete examples, which echo key words in the job description – the employer will be scanning for these.
4. Bring your CV to life
Refer to your CV or other application documents to provide backup evidence. You don’t need to say it all, or duplicate your CV, in your covering letter. Your covering letter should animate key points of your experience that are relevant to the job description.
5. State why you're interested in this employer
If the organisation’s culture and development opportunities attract you, then say so. This is also your opportunity to demonstrate that you have researched their activities and possess true motivation for the role. Be specific, and link their mission to your own interests.
6. Think about layout
Make sure the layout is the same as a business letter. The length should be 1 page unless the organisation states otherwise. Always follow the organisation’s guidance. Go to our cover letter page for examples.
7. Professional, not artificial
Aim for a professional tone but make it sound like you (not AI!). Write in clear, concise, formal English and avoid jargon.
8. Have a personal touch
GenAI, some paid-for websites and organisations offer covering letter writing services, for a fee. We believe that AI can assist you but should not be relied upon. If you follow our advice, use our resources, and attend an application support appointment, you will produce the best possible cover letter.
9. Close on a positive
Make your closing line constructive, not rambling. If you used a named contact, end with ‘Yours sincerely’, otherwise use ‘Yours faithfully’.
Beth guided me through the entire process, helping me build a personalised and effective cover letter structure tailored to each job. She also provided feedback on my CV and advice on enhancing my LinkedIn profile.