How to write a Covering Letter?

The purpose of a covering letter is to emphasize why you are interested and suitable for the job. It should complement information provided in CV and not duplicate it.


An effective covering letter should be short - preferably no more than one A4 page and no more than five paragraphs. It should be written in a form of formal letter - in the right top corner of a page should be your address with date below it and under that section, on the left side of the paper should be recipient's name and address. You may begin your later with 'Dear Sir or Madam' and finish it with 'Yours faithfully' or if a recipient is known, begin it with their name, for example - 'Dear Mr Jones' and finish with 'Yours sincerely'.

The content of a letter should begin with an opening statement, explaining who you are and why you are writing.

Following section should specify why you want to work in that particular sector, employer and job.

Next, you have to show that you represent skills that your employer is looking for by writing how your education and experiences prepared you for that particular position. The letter should include examples describing how you have learned and successfully used your skills. Avoid discussing your week points, but make sure you have a solid explanation for them and focus on your advantages.

Finally, you need to let your employer know how will they profit from employing you.

Remember, whatever you write, it must sound professional and enthusiastic!