Writing a Cover Letter
It is very essential to attach an effective cover letter while sending your CV. Hence, it is worth taking time to create the best possible impression about you.
There are no hard and fast rules while preparing a letter, but the following information may be useful as a guide.
- The size, layout, font type, quality of paper and neatness will all contribute to this effect. When the letter is read, the employer will be influenced by the way it has been written, as well as by its content.
- Careful use of English language is essential, as it will help you to capture the reader’s attention. Convey positive attitude and avoid grammatical and spelling errors. You must communicate effectively without being inappropriate. This requires an attention to detail and a willingness to make sure your writing is as clear and concise as possible.
- If you are responding to a particular job advertisement, then you need to mention the reference details such as source, date of advertisement and position. If it is an open application, then you may mention what position you are seeking in that organization.
- Some Useful phrases:
- In response to your advertisement in “...“ dated
- Further to our telephone conversation …
- Would like to be considered for the position of “...”
- I am hereby attaching my CV for your consideration. . .
- Writing to enquire whether you have any suitable vacancy in “...“
- There is a need to break the letter into various parts such as summary/objective, educational qualifications, experience and achievements and a thank you note.
- In the first paragraph, identify who you are, what job you are applying for and how you heard about the vacancy. You may perhaps provide a summary of your main ‘selling points’.
- The middle paragraph is very crucial to get the attention of the recruiter. It can address few main themes such as overview of your education, a brief description about your current roles and responsibilities and summarize your accomplishments why you want to join the organization and do that particular job and show that you’ve researched the employer and the job.
Restate your interest and summarize your suitability and perhaps request for an interview.
It is essential that you tailor your letter to suit organization. The prospective employer may be interested to know from you the reason why you have chosen them.
- In the last paragraph, i t is not only necessary to thank the reader but also to open the door for further contact. Hence, it is essential to highlight that the recruiter can either contact you through e-mail or through phone (please give your contact telephone numbers)
Conclude the letter in an assertive way and at the same time be courteous by saying words like “Yours sincerely” or “With best regards” and then your signature.
Twelve important points on cover letter writing
- Go though through the job advertisement, job description and the company’s website before drafting your cover letter.
- Tone and Appeal must encourage the employer to take your CV seriously.
- Address each letter to a specific person and look out for the contact's name, its correct spelling and his or her title.
- Avoid gimmicky openings and simply state in the first paragraph why you're writing and why it's in the reader's best interest to pay attention.
- The writing style of your letter should be concise and clear. T he letter should be neat and visually appealing.
- Tailor your letter as much as possible for each job position.
- Be honest while highlighting your educational qualifications, job history and achievements.
- Always project positive aspects in your letter and never attempt to highlight anything negative.
- Proof reading is important before letter being sent to avoid any grammatical mistakes or typo errors. Take the help of someone who's good at proofreading.
- Be brief and concise ; restrict the cover letter/e-mail to 1 page in length unless your prospective employer had asked for a detailed write up.
- Always include a cover letter with your resume, whether it is mailed, e-mailed, or faxed.
- Keep a copy of the cover letter either hard copy or soft copy. This will be handy while attending the interview or for any further follow up.