Covering Letter

• A covering letter should be short - certainly no longer than a page. As with your CV, you must remember that if you don't demonstrate that you have what is required for the job in the early stages of the letter, the recipient will shut off very quickly.
• Don't duplicate information and ramble- the purpose of the letter is to briefly introduce the CV.
• Since the CV is usually best in a bulleted format, the letter provides the opportunity to explain why you are suitable and why you want this particular position. Try to maintain the impression that the role is a natural progression and you have all the tools the opportunity requires. Set out your objectives matching them to the job description.
• You should include how you were made aware of the vacancy, as this is important for marketing appraisals to determine most effective recruitment strategies. Quite often this is done by putting as a header the 'Job title' for which you are applying and the reference found in the job ad (where applicable).
• You may also use the letter to reassure the recruiter on any negative points that are bound to come to light. E.g. if you live in Newcastle and are applying for a job in Bournemouth, you may put that you are happy to re-locate for this position, or that you have family in the area who would be happy to offer you accommodation. Failing to do this will give the recruiter the excuse they need to reduce their interview list.
• Most of all, remember to tailor your covering letter appropriate to the job you are applying for. It is most likely when searching for a job that you are mass applying. Tweak your covering letter to the role that the letter is intended.

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