Cover letters
Whilst your CV is an important part of your application, it’s not the only way to impress an employer. The best cover letters are unique and tailored to each opportunity, adding context to your application. Highlight your skills and achievements, explain why you’re applying, and show how well you match their requirements. To create an impactful cover letter, ask yourself three questions: Why this role? Why this organisation? Why me?
Tips for writing a cover letter
- Follow the employer’s instructions closely.
- Start with our template if you’re new to writing cover letters.
- Before sending, double-check the employer’s requirements to ensure you’ve addressed them all.
- Treat your cover letter as a showcase for your skills and strengths tailored to each job.
- Research the company online to understand what they look for in candidates.
- Write your first draft candidly; refine the language later.
- Avoid generic words; focus on demonstrating your unique strengths.
- Research the company thoroughly to tailor your language and show your commercial awareness.
- Demonstrate your understanding of their business or industry through your choice of vocabulary (e.g., customer vs. client).
- Use active and dynamic language (e.g., facilitating, liaising, coordinating) to convey your energy and enthusiasm for the role.
Formatting
Generally, one page will be sufficient. However, if the job requirements are quite extensive, then aim for 1-2 pages. Pay attention to details such as grammar, spelling, and presentation. Use simple fonts such as Arial or Calibri and black font colour only. Where possible, address your letter to a specific person. Proactive online research – or taking the initiative to call and enquire – means the letter is seen by the right hiring manager.
Structure
Essentially, your cover letter should answer: Why you? Why this role? Why this organisation?
Some find it effective to structure their letter with each paragraph addressing a different theme — e.g., why you’re interested in the role in the first paragraph, showcasing relevant experience in the second, and so on. Alternatively, others prefer brainstorming these themes and shaping their letter around them.
Employers are mostly checking that you are:
- motivated – tell them why you’re applying for this role and this organisation
- qualified – showcase relevant skills or experience that you’ve identified from the job information
- compatible – that you are a good fit for their organisation and/or share their values priorities.
Check out the Prospects cover letter resource for all the essential information you need to get started with your covering letter.
Further support
You can get any part of your cover letter reviewed by the careers service by booking an appointment.
