When applying for jobs, it is important to have an accompanying covering letter to submit alongside your CV. A covering letter gives you the opportunity to expand on key points made on your CV in more depth, as well as personalising your application, giving reasons why you’re applying for the vacancy.

It is important to keep your covering letter brief while emphasising your suitability for the role you’re applying for. The opening paragraph should set out the reason you’re writing the letter, where you saw the job opening and your availability, while the middle paragraphs should set out why you’re attracted to the position, specify why you’d like to work for the company, what you can offer to the organisation and demonstrate how your skills match those mentioned in the job description. Your closing paragraph should mention any dates you are unavailable for an interview, thank the employer for taking the time to look over your application and indicate you are looking forward to receiving a response.

Some tips for writing your first covering letter include:

• Keep your covering letter clear and concise, writing no more than one side of A4.

• You should try and address your covering letter directly to the person who will be receiving and looking over your application. Although most positions will include a contact name, it is always worth taking the time to search who you should address the letter to.

• Relate your skills and experience to the job vacancy that you’re applying for and make sure to tell the employer what you will bring to the role and company and why the employer should want to meet with you.

• Tailor your covering letter for each application, making sure to mention the company you’re applying to and specify why you’re impressed with the organisation and the reason you’re attracted to working for them.

• Always make sure to proofread your covering letter and CV before sending it to a potential employer. It is often advisable to have someone else read your covering letter to check for mistakes – a fresh pair of eyes can often pick up on mistakes that you may have missed.

Covering letters are your chance to show potential employers your personality and the skills you have that make you an asset to their organisation!