Cover letter inspiration

Landing an interview for a new job doesn’t just rely on a sparkling CV. First impressions always count – and that’s why a well-written cover letter is so important. Easy, you say… Well, not if you get the formula wrong.

There are three basic rules of thumb to stick to, so that your cover letter doesn’t become a ‘me, me, me’ monologue.

1. Remind the employer what they want
You’ve got the job ad in front of you, what does it say? What skills and qualities are they looking for? What degree qualification have they asked for?

Don’t relay it verbatim, but try to show an understanding of their needs by summing up the type of hire they’ve outlined in the job spec. It’s a good opener and sets the scene.

2. Tell them how you fit that description
Having reminded the employer what they’re looking for, now’s your chance to tell them how you fit the bill. (We’re talking one well-organised paragraph, not the entire contents of your CV.)

This part of the cover letter should forthrightly summarise why your skills match the role. And don’t panic if you don’t necessarily meet all criteria head-on. It’s more than acceptable to be a little bit creative here (while not lying, obviously) to illustrate the skills you do have – and how easily they could be adapted to that particular job.

3. Why are you the best hire?
Keep it that simple. Employers will use your cover letter to make sure you tick off the job description must-haves, and only move onto your CV if you do. So give it to them both barrels, quantifying exactly why you’re right for the position*.

*No begging, no pleading and no arrogance required – just a straight-talking, confident and assertive paragraph that makes them picture you in the role will do.

Now you’ve got the structure of a cover letter right, here’s a quick checklist to help you put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard):

• Try and get a contact name so you can personalise your letter or email
• Use the first paragraph to briefly explain why you’re writing to them
• Briefly outline your skills and qualifications, matching them to the job spec
• Use bullet points to get maximum impact with as few words as possible
• Be specific and include a figure or two to quantify your suitability if you can
• Show them you’ve done your research on the company
• As you close the letter, point the addressee to the CV you’ve attached
• Also thank them for their time and consideration
• Be assertive and never apologetic, end the letter on a positive
• Keep it brief (about 250-300 words long)