Writing a cover letter/email – top 5 tips

Your covering letter or email is important and you should endeavor to include a tailored version which every application you make. Think of it as the finishing touch, the packaging for your resume. Think of it like a birthday present. Do you expect your present to be wrapped and come with a birthday card or a bow tie? Of course you do!

Despite expectations, 99% of the time, a covering letter or email will only be “skim” read, that is, if it gets read at all. The trouble is, if the reader is interested in a covering letter and you do not send one then you application will be perceived poorly – lacking attention to detail, unfinished, unsure of why you are applying.

Below are 5 top tips which will help you write an effective and strong covering letter without too much time and energy.

1. Keep it concise

The purpose of a covering letter/email is to entice the reader to open your resume and find out more. You should not be including information about your whole career, all your skills and abilities.

2. Address key requirements listed in the position description or job advertisement

Why are you applying? What skills and abilities do you have which are relevant for this role or company? You should know the answer to these questions – otherwise don’t apply! Make reference to the job position or vacancy number. This formalizes your approach and also will assist with storage and administration if the receiver needs to forward your application elsewhere within the organization. If you are not applying for a specific position then make reference with respect to the company itself.

3. Easy to read – try to use short paragraphs or bullet points

You should aim for a brief 3 paragraphs, no longer than half a page. Each paragraph should also be short and to the point. Avoid lengthy hard to read sentences, use bullet points if you need to do so.

4. Formally written

Include an application date, the correct title for the reader (avoid “to whom it may concern”), your full contact details and clearly state the role you are applying for. A formally and appropriately written covering letter is far more impressive and finished. Finish your covering letter by thanking the reader for your attention or similar.

5. Make it obvious why you are applying – aim to include 3 key achievements

The body or content of the covering letter/email should make reference to the key areas you have identified in the job description or advertisement. You should offer an example of an achievement or how you have displayed the skill and ability previously.