10 important things to have in a cover letter

From JobTipInfo

Posted by
Dan |

05:31

|

A cover letter is now considered a must for any job application. 
It is your first impression, first chance to sell yourself and can make
or break your chances of progressing to interview.  Here are a list of
important things that you should look to include in your covering
letter:



10 Cover Letter Hints and Tips - What to include:



1.  The hint is in the title - LETTER.  It should take on the form,
style and visual effect of a letter.  Include standard features such as
addresses, names, contact numbers etc.  Keep the letter formal and
concise.



2.  Get to the point.  Say why you are applying, the reason you are
interested in the role and company and why your skills make you the
most desireable candidate.



3.  Tailor each covering letter to each individual job.  Recruiters can
spot copy and paste attempts, and have a keen eye for recycled
"standard template" applications.  A good covering letter can embody
standard features, but personalise them to you and the job you want.



4.  Know the name of the person you are writing to.  Not only does it
show a level of research, but it also makes the covering letter more
person.  To 'Whom It May Concern' and 'Dear Sir/Madam' are to be
avoided.  Most company websites or corporate brochures/leaflets list a
direct person to contact.



5.  Print the letter off and mail it together with the rest of your
application rather than email (if possible or unless otherwise
specified).



6.  Keep in mind when writing your covering letter that it should be a
demonstration of why you want the job.  Your CV tells the recruiter
your skills and qualifications, this is your opportunity to demonstrate
your desire to fulfill the role.



7.  Keep it limited to one page.  Avoid waffly pointless content,
repeating yourself or information contained in your CV.  Be concise,
direct and convincing.  Resist begging.



8.   Spelling and grammar checks are vitally important.  Get someone
else to read through it before sending, and at the least allow a word
processing program to check it for obvious errors.



9.  Encourage the recruiter to interview you with loaded content.  This
can be done by referring in your letter to your willingness to expand
upon your suitability, applicable skills, experience and qualifications
at the interview stage.



10.  Have professional contacts?  Inform the recruiter that you could
bring these contacts and their knowledge with you for the benefit of
the firm.