It might seem that including a cover letter with your CV is a bit pointless; after all, the employer already has your CV so why would they need it? However, you should always include a cover letter with your CV when applying for jobs, unless the employer has stated otherwise. The cover letter is a more personable addition to your CV. It gives you the chance to introduce yourself and discuss anything that may not be apparent on your CV. For instance, if you have gaps in your employment, you can explain these in your cover letter.

These are some tips for writing an effective cover letter.

Keep it Concise

Recruiters are not going to take the time to read a cover letter that looks like an essay. It should only be around one page in length. Remember that your CV will give a more detailed account of your skills and experience. The cover letter is simply an introduction.

Add Contact Details

Your cover letter should include your contact details, even if these are on your CV. In some cases, employers decide on whether to progress an application based on the cover letter alone. It makes it easier for them to contact you on the back of the cover letter.

Formal Introduction

In an email, it is perfectly acceptable to say ‘hi’, however, a cover letter is formal, and you should address the hiring manager using ‘Dear (Sir/Madam)’ or ‘Dear Recruitment Team.’ Inform them of the role you are applying for and where you found out about it.

Tell Your Story

The cover letter is an opportunity to inform the recruiter or hiring manager about your journey so far and how it has led you to apply for this post. It is a good opportunity to cover any areas of concern you think the employer might have. For example, a lack of experience or several temporary roles. Make sure you mention any achievements you have that might be of interest to the hiring manager. The cover letter gives you the opportunity to highlight these.

Relevant Skills and Experience

Although your CV will go into more detail, you can briefly describe the skills and experience you possess which are relevant to the role. If you don’t have any direct experience, now is your chance to mention any transferable skills you possess.

Reasons for Applying

You can use this space to give the hiring manager an insight into what has led you to apply for the role in the first place. A snippet you have researched about the company will be effective here, for instance, any awards they have won, recent expansion, collaborations, etc.

Call to Action

The worst mistake you can make on your cover letter is to assume that you will be invited to an interview. For example, signing the cover letter off by saying you can’t wait to attend an interview. Instead, you can reiterate your interest in the role and the fact that you would be excited to attend an interview.

If you need support with writing your cover letter, you can contact us, and we will be happy to provide advice on getting your cover letter right, as well as an update on our current vacancies.