Part b applying for a job: cover letter

I Background

HOW TO WRITE A COVER LETTER?

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is a formal letter that accompanies your CV.

The main objectives of your cover letter are to:

1. introduce yourself, identify the position you are applying for, and explain how you found out about the position;

2. explain how you are qualified for the position and why you would be a great fit for the job;

3. request an interview and thank the employer.

 

Top-10 cover letter tips

1. Do your homework. Learn what you can about the company or organization you’re applying to, so you can tailor your cover letter and really show the employer that you could be a good fit.
2. Follow instructions. Be sure to include any information that was requested in the job posting. If the posting asked for the amount of hours a week you are available to work, be sure to answer that question in the cover letter.
3. Don’t just restate your CV. Use your letter as an opportunity to make a great first impression. Most employers read the cover letter first, so you want to catch their attention by describing your impressive skills. That way, they are more likely to read your full CV.
4. Personalize your letter. When possible, address your cover letter to a specific person. Use their name and title, and make sure the spelling of the name is correct.
5. Tailor your letter to the job. Make sure the skills and experience you highlight in your cover letter are clearly connected to the job you’re applying for.
6. Presentation counts. Use a font that’s easy to read, like 12-point Times New Roman or Arial.
7. Break it down. Make your cover letter easier to read by breaking the text down into short paragraphs.
8. Use a professional tone. Be sure to use professional and respectful language when writing your cover letter.
9. Be brief. Your cover letter should be no more than one page long – the best strategy is to keep it short and to the point.
10. Proofread. Review your cover letter several times; don’t just rely on spell-check. Ask someone else to proofread it as well.

Sample Cover Letter Your name Address Date Employer Name, Title Organization Address Dear: First paragraph: Mention the name of any person who referred you to this employer first, if this information is available to include. Otherwise, start your letter with a powerful statement that will grab the reader's attention. Identify yourself and the type of position you are seeking. State how you heard about this job opening. ("As an attorney with 15 years experience in the prosecutor's office, I am writing in response to your advertisement in the New York Times for litigators.") Second paragraph: Explain why you are qualified for or interested in this particular position. Stress how youcan benefit the employer and what you have to offer. Highlight the most significant aspects of your background with regard to the particular employer. Consider using bullets to draw attention to your accomplishments. Third paragraph: Restate your interest in the particular organization, and express your desire for an interview. State how the employer may contact you if your address and phone number are different from the information on your resume. You may also state that you will call to set up an appointment. If you are truly interested in this job, feel free to take the initiative. Sincerely, Type your name Enclosure

II Practice and Experience

 

1. In pair discuss the following questions:

a) What is the difference between a CV and a cover letter?

b) What should you write in a cover letter?

Complete this introduction to cover letters using the words in the box.

business complement cover letter CV employer interview introduction persuade position well focused

What is a cover letter?

A (1) _ CV __ gives information about the educational qualifications and professional experience you have whereas a (2) _____ explains why you want the job. A cover letter should (3) _____, not duplicate your CV. The main purpose of a personalized cover letter is to (4) _____ the reader to read your CV and consider you for the vacant (5) _____.

A cover letter is often your earliest written contact with a potential (6) _____, creating a critical first impression. A well-written, (7) cover letter demonstrates your written communication skills and will help you to get all-important (8) _____.

The letter of application should follow all general guidelines for all (9) _____ letters. It should have an (10) _____, a main body, and a final paragraph.