Cover Letter Tips
A cover letter matters because it adds the human touch behind your resume. It can give employers a sense of the person behind the CV.
Your CV shows what you’ve done — a cover letter explains why it matters and why you’re a good fit for that specific job.
How it adds value to your application:
1. It personalizes your application
Instead of sending a generic resume, a cover letter shows you took time to tailor your application to that company and role.
2. It explains your story
You can connect your experience to the job, highlight key achievements, or explain things your resume can’t (like career changes, gaps, or motivation).
3. It shows communication skills
Hiring managers look at how clearly and professionally you express yourself — especially for roles that involve teamwork, or client interaction.
4. It demonstrates interest and effort
A thoughtful cover letter signals that you’re genuinely interested, not just mass-applying everywhere.
5. It helps you stand out
Many applicants have similar qualifications. A strong cover letter can be the thing that makes someone remember you.
A good cover letter can encourage an employer to get in touch and learn more about you.
Some tips:
Structure:
- Opening → Why this role/company
- Middle → Your most relevant achievements
- Closing → Clear enthusiasm + interview request
Guidelines:
- Short (250–400 words)
- Tailored to the specific job
- Focused on how you solve their problems
- Easy to scan in under 30 seconds
Keep it formal but natural
Openings:
- “I am writing to apply for…”
- “Please accept my application for…”
Focus on evidence – facts
- measurable achievements
- relevant experience
- reliability and professionalism
Use “Yours sincerely” correctly
- If you know the person’s name → Yours sincerely
- If you don’t know the name → Yours faithfully
Formatting
- Simple font (Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman)
- 10–12 pt size
- Left aligned
- No graphics or colours unless applying for a creative role
Tip: If possible, don’t send your cover letter as a separate document — consider adding it at the top of your CV file instead. This can reduce the risk of it being missed, ensures it’s seen alongside your experience, and may help applicant tracking systems (ATS) pick up additional keywords. Overall, it creates a more seamless and polished first impression.
A strong cover letter should be clear, tailored, and focused on the value you can bring to the role. Keep it concise, highlight relevant achievements and experience, and use a professional but natural tone. Good structure, simple formatting, and attention to detail can help create a positive first impression and encourage employers to learn more about you.
Cover Letter Example
[Your Full Name]
[Your Address]
[Postcode]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
[Date]
Hiring Manager
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr/Ms Surname] / Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to apply for the position of [Job Title] as advertised on [where you found the role]. I am particularly interested in this opportunity because [brief reason], and I believe my skills and experience make me a strong candidate for the role.
In my current/previous role at [Company Name], I gained experience in [relevant responsibilities or skills]. One of my key achievements was [specific example with result if possible]. Through this experience, I developed strong abilities in [skills relevant to the new role], which closely match the requirements outlined in your job description.
I am especially drawn to [Company Name] because of [company value, reputation, project, or goal]. I would welcome the opportunity to contribute to your team by bringing my experience in [relevant area] and my enthusiasm for [industry or field].
Please find my CV attached for your consideration. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss my application further at interview. Thank you for taking the time to consider my application, and I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Full Name]