Home Employment Support
Self Assessment Job Positions Finding Work Approaching Businesses
CV Tips CV Formats Cover Letter Personal Statement Personal Qualities
Employer Viewpoints Interview Tips Finding Work
Employment Sites Psychometric Tests

Letter of Application

Five reasons why a covering letter is important

  1. The covering letter is the first document read by the prospective employer. First impressions count

  2. Your CV needs something to introduce it, so you need a covering letter to explain why it has been sent

  3. A covering letter allows you to gain an edge over the competition before your CV is even read.

  4. A well written covering letter can impress and entice the reader into wanting to know more about you.

  5. Covering letters can explain additional information.

cover letter

Cover letter example

Below are some guidelines for you to follow when writing your covering letter:

  • Your letter should be addressed to either the Manager or the Human Resource or Personnel Manager or a nominated person as specified in the advertisement. If you are unsure who to address the letter to, phone the organisation as it is important to address a letter   to an individual.
  • Show that you have done some research about the organisation, this is important to prospective employers as it demonstrates real interest
  • State why you are applying for the position; what attracted you to the role
  • Employer’s state that they look for key words in a covering letter; words that show enthusiasm, motivation, drive. Something that set you apart from other applicants.
  • Your covering letter should be typed unless they ask for a hand written letter
  • Use good quality white or off white A4 paper as this makes your CV easier to read if it needs to be copied to distribute to other interview panel members.

Paragraph 1

This paragraph must contain information on why you are writing. It must be clear and to the point, and should include:

  • Which job you are applying for
  • Where and when you saw the job advertised

Example
I wish to apply for the position of Marketing Assistant as advertised in the TradeMe website on 20th October 20xx.......

Alternatively you could try a more energetic and enthusiastic approach:

  • The above position really appeals to me because
  • I am extremely interested in finding out my about the position of…
  • My previous experience and qualifications would be ideally suited for…
  • The above position (named in heading) is just what I have been looking for… 

Paragraph 2

The detail in this paragraph must be about you. It should include:

  • Why you want this particular job. The challenges, the people, the products and services
  • Further details of your skills, qualifications and experience relevant to this position-often this will include some personal observations or reflections on how you work and why you enjoy working in this area.
  • What you have to offer the organisation.

Example:

During my two years of study towards my Diploma in Marketing I worked part time in a Marketing Co-ordinator position for a locally based nationwide wholesaler and importer of sporting goods. The position gave me the opportunity to develop promotional material for retailers and the print media. I found I enjoyed developing promotional material and working as part of a team. The work was stimulating and challenging and rewarding particularly when products sold well and retailers commented on the quality of the advertising material.

Paragraph 3

Your concluding paragraph will be optimistic, forward-looking and positive:

  • Tell them that you look forward to meeting them and discussing the position
  • State your availability for an interview
  • Thank them for their time

Example:

Please find enclosed my curriculum vitae, I would welcome an opportunity to meet and discuss my application with you in detail. I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely