10 important things to have in a covering letter

A covering letter is now considered a must for any job application.  It is your first impression, first chance to sell yourself and can make or break your chances of progressing to interview.  Here are a list of important things that you should look to include in your covering letter:

10 Covering Letter Hints and Tips - What to include:

1.  The hint is in the title - LETTER.  It should take on the form, style and visual effect of a letter.  Include standard features such as addresses, names, contact numbers etc.  Keep the letter formal and concise.

2.  Get to the point.  Say why you are applying, the reason you are interested in the role and company and why your skills make you the most desireable candidate.

3.  Tailor each covering letter to each individual job.  Recruiters can spot copy and paste attempts, and have a keen eye for recycled "standard template" applications.  A good covering letter can embody standard features, but personalise them to you and the job you want.

4.  Know the name of the person you are writing to.  Not only does it show a level of research, but it also makes the covering letter more person.  To 'Whom It May Concern' and 'Dear Sir/Madam' are to be avoided.  Most company websites or corporate brochures/leaflets list a direct person to contact.

5.  Print the letter off and mail it together with the rest of your application rather than email (if possible or unless otherwise specified).

6.  Keep in mind when writing your covering letter that it should be a demonstration of why you want the job.  Your CV tells the recruiter your skills and qualifications, this is your opportunity to demonstrate your desire to fulfill the role.

7.  Keep it limited to one page.  Avoid waffly pointless content, repeating yourself or information contained in your CV.  Be concise, direct and convincing.  Resist begging.

8.   Spelling and grammar checks are vitally important.  Get someone else to read through it before sending, and at the least allow a word processing program to check it for obvious errors.

9.  Encourage the recruiter to interview you with loaded content.  This can be done by referring in your letter to your willingness to expand upon your suitability, applicable skills, experience and qualifications at the interview stage.

10.  Have professional contacts?  Inform the recruiter that you could bring these contacts and their knowledge with you for the benefit of the firm.