Read the dialogue. Summarize the structure of a cover letter.

Student: I know you usually send a covering letter with a CV. But, what is it exactly?

Careers counselor: Well, really it’s a letter telling an employer why you’re interested in their company or organisation. You can tell them about your special skills and qualities and why you want to work with them. It gives you an opportunity to sell yourself to the employer.

S.: I see. Erm…how long should it be?

C.: It depends. But generally rather short, perhaps one side of an A4 sheet of paper. And the tone should be enthusiastic and professional.

S.: Right. Could you give me a little more detail about what to put in each paragraph?

C.: OK, I’ll suggest a structure. The first paragraph is your introduction. You say who you are, why you’re writing and where you saw the position advertised.

S.: OK, I’ve got that.

C.: In paragraph two, tell the employer why you want the job – in other words, say what attracted you to the organisation. Show that you’re enthusiastic and motivated. Flattery is important, so explain why it’s the only firm you want to work for.

S.: Right.

C.: The third paragraph is really important. This is where you sell yourself. Here you mention your qualities, erm… skills and experience that match what they are looking for. You tell them what you can contribute to their organisation. Describe yourself like a product on sale: list your skills and personal qualities like high motivation, enthusiasm and adaptability. OK? Now we come to the final paragraph. Say when you’re available for interview. And end on a positive note. For example, say you are looking forward to hearing from them soon, or something like that.

S.: Thanks, that’s really helpful.

Exercise 1. Pierre Mayer is applying for the post. Put the sentences in his e-mail in the correct order.

	To: [e-mail]
	From: [e-mail]
а) Dear Ms Asselborn,
b) The aim of the project is to equip the Ministry of Finance with up-to-date computer systems, develop adequate software and support the local IT staff responsible for technology planning.
c) Finally, please do not hesitate to contact me if you need any further details.
d) With the benefit of all the experience I have gained there, I now look forward to a challenge and a steady career in my home country. If I am shortlisted, could you please let me know whether you would be willing to consider a telephone interview.
e) I look forward to hearing from you.
f) I am enjoying all the responsibilities tremendously. However, the project will be completed in three months’ time and I will therefore leave Bulgaria.
g) Since September 2001, I have been working as IT consultant on a UN-sponsored project in Bulgaria.
h) With reference to your advertisement in the Luxembourg Daily News of 10 May, I would like to apply for the post of Chief It officer. As you can see from the attached CV, I obtained my Msci^* in mathematics and computer science from Imperial College London in July 2001.
Yours sincerely,
Pierre Meyer

^* Msci – магістр точних наук

 

Exercise 2. Study and translate the Useful Language Box.

A Personal qualities	B Skills / activities	C Useful phrases
creative dynamic efficient energetic cooperative perceptive responsible well-organised adaptable ambitious consistent dependable loyal willing to travel resourceful	communication skills interpersonal skills organisational ability I was responsible for …co-ordinating …developing …implementing …initiating …monitoring My work involves …negotiating …organising …setting up …devising …managing	I can work/perform well under pressure. I am willing to take the initiative. I have a proven track record in… I have extensive knowledge of… I have wide experience in/of… I am able to delegate… I can work effectively in a team. I am fluent in… I have a good knowledge of…