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Writing an effective cover letter

The cover letter is your chance to grab the attention of your potential employer!

Often advertisements for positions vacant will request that a covering letter be attached to your resume application, and writing an effective covering letter is an opportunity to present yourself above other Applicants!

Your cover letter is not simply an introduction or a summary of your resume; it is an opportunity to demonstrate your suitability for the role, and to specifically address the position specifications as set out in a job advertisement.

It is essential that you present yourself professionally; don't use slang or casual language, and be sure that you check your spelling and proof read your final document.

An effective cover letter increases your chance of getting an interview, so it would be worth your while to create a document that gives you a competitive edge - here is the how-to:

Length: Your letter should be no longer than one A4 page.
Addressing: Provide your name and contact details, include the date and the full name, title, organization and address of the person to whom you are addressing the letter.
Layout: The layout of the letter should be 3-4 well-spaced, easy to read, short paragraphs.
Content:
- Introduce yourself, state the position that you are applying for, and include the job reference number if applicable
- Outline your suitability for the job in the middle paragraph by listing your skills, experience and attributes
- Look for keywords - if the job requires someone who is "detail-oriented" and willing to work in a "team environment", include those words in your cover letter.
- You might also want to include a reason for applying for the job.
- The final paragraph should be a brief conclusion. Thank the reader for their time and attention, or invite them to contact you.