I enjoy writing targeted cover letters in partnership with clients (after we’ve written the resume). Every paragraph is a ‘punchy’ selling point, which goes to the heart of the application.
Don’t use the same cover letter for different job applications. This is where generic cover letters fail.
Your cover letter needs to show that you know what the job involves and what the organisation is looking for.
Be as specific as you can about your skills and qualities and how they match the job or organisation’s needs.
At the start of your cover letter, explain which job you’re applying for. You can either do this on a line by itself, (e.g., Application for Stock Controller position”) or in the opening paragraph.
Write a paragraph about why you want this particular job. What is it that excites you about the position? A good motivational paragraph towards the top of the letter can often get you an interview.
Put your name and contact details at the top of the cover letter.
You don’t have to give your postal address, but you do need to include your email and phone number. Make sure you’ll be able to answer the phone number you give.
Include two or paragraphs which matches your skills and experiences to the job description. If you’re answering a job ad, either the ad or the position description may provide a list of skills and experiences that are essential for doing the job.
It may also provide a list of “desirable” skills and experience. Address those too.
Remember, you are writing a job application. Keep a formal tone.
For more information on cover letters, send me an email.
Cover letters for Internships
If you are applying for an internship you will likely have to submit a cover letter as part of your application. Your cover letter should be tailored to the specific internship and should include examples from your work, academic, and extracurricular experiences.
Use a business format when sending a cover letter by mail. Include your contact information at the top, the date, and the contact information for the employer. Be sure to provide a proper salutation at the bottom. If you are sending a cover letter by email you do not have to include the contact information at the top.
Make sure to write a unique cover letter for each internship you apply for. Highlight skills and abilities that relate to the specific internship listing. The main emphasis of your cover letter should be convincing the reader that you will be an asset as an intern.
In the letter, you can mention academic experience, if applicable. Especially if you have limited work experience, you might use examples from school to demonstrate that you have particular skills. For example, if the internship requires you to work as part of a team, provide an example of a successful team project you worked on during one of your college courses.
You can also include details about your relevant experience from extracurricular activities or volunteer work. For example, a reporter for a college newspaper can point to interviewing and writing skills; a history of volunteering at a shelter can provide an example of strong interpersonal skills.