Covering Letter Tips

First impressions are important. Your covering letter is often your first introduction to an employer. Your covering letter and Curriculum Vitae provide all the information which a prospective employer will use to decide whether or not you will reach the next phase in the application process: the interview.

The covering letter is every bit as important as your CV. In fact, many employers will not even look at your CV if the covering letter is poorly written, disorganised or difficult to read and understand. If your CV isn’t even read, the chance of getting an interview is virtually zero. Therefore, it is important to give the same careful consideration and attention to the preparation of covering letters, as you gave to your CV.

Covering Letters Tips:

A covering letter should be no longer than one page in length.
It should contain only three or four paragraphs – keep the paragraphs short and to the point.
Make your letter neat and organised.
Do not handwrite the letter.
Use a font and type size that is easy to read.
Use standard paper and avoid using brightly coloured paper.
Always customise the letter for the position you are applying for.
Make sure it is addressed to a specific person, not a title.
Indicate where you can be reached by including your telephone number and/or email address.
Refer to qualifications, experience and skills that are described in the job description.
Show that you know something about the company.
Express your enthusiasm and interest in the position and the company