Cover Letters

What goes in a cover letter?


  1. First Paragraph:
  2. Second Paragraph:
  3. Third Paragraph:
  4. Final Paragraph:

Structure

1

First Paragraph:

State where you saw the job application or whether it is a speculative application for work experience/employment, and name the position you are applying for.


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2

Second Paragraph:

This is your opportunity to highlight the strengths you have in relation to the job you are applying for. It is important to show clearly what you are offering and not what you hope to gain from the position.
Describe what you are currently doing and outline the skills you have that are necessary for the job. Provide evidence of where you have developed those skills, for instance, through work experience, part time work or on your course. Try not to repeat exactly what you have said on your CV.


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HINT
Don’t repeat exactly what it says on your CV
3

Third Paragraph:

In this paragraph, tell the recipient what you know about them and explain why you want to work for this organisation in particular, Researching an organisation demonstrates how motivated you are to work specifically for them.


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HINT
If you’re making a speculative application, address your letter to a specific person, not just info@someonesomewhere.com. If you don’t have a name, call your target and ask for the name of the person who does the recruiting. If they won’t give it to you, call again later and see if you can get someone else who will.
4

Final Paragraph:

A final short and polite paragraph, stating when you are available for interview, and thanking the recipient for considering your application.


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HINT
Type your cover letter, and try to keep it to one page in length.
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