Many candidates treat the covering letter as an afterthought. That’s a mistake. A well-crafted letter is often the first thing a recruiter or employer reads, and it sets the tone for everything that follows.
Why the covering letter matters
Your CV presents the facts of your career. Your covering letter explains why those facts are relevant to this specific role. It’s your opportunity to show personality, demonstrate genuine enthusiasm, and make a compelling case for yourself before anyone has even glanced at your employment history.
A covering letter that simply restates your CV is a missed opportunity. The best letters complement the CV – they don’t duplicate it.
Structure it well
A covering letter doesn’t need to be long. One page is usually plenty. Here is a simple structure that works well:
- Opening paragraph – introduce yourself and state clearly which role you’re applying for. Express genuine enthusiasm, but keep it professional.
- Middle paragraphs – explain why you are a strong candidate. Draw on specific examples from your experience that relate directly to the job description. Keep it concise and relevant.
- Closing paragraph – summarise your interest, confirm your availability, and invite further discussion. Thank the reader for their time.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Starting with ‘I’ – it’s a small thing, but opening with ‘I am writing to apply…’ feels flat. Try something that puts the role or employer first.
- Generic phrases – ‘I am a hardworking team player with excellent communication skills’ tells a recruiter nothing. Show, don’t tell.
- Copying and pasting – it’s usually obvious when a letter has been recycled. Personalise every application.
- Getting the company name wrong – it happens more often than you might think, and it rarely goes unnoticed.
- Writing too much – a covering letter should make the reader want to read your CV, not replace it.
Tone and language
Match your tone to the employer. A letter for a creative agency can afford to be a little less formal than one for a law firm or financial services organisation. When in doubt, err on the side of professional. Write clearly, use plain English, and avoid jargon.
Always proofread carefully. Spelling and grammar errors in a covering letter suggest a lack of attention to detail – not a quality any employer is looking for.
| 💡 Quick tip
If you’re applying through Personnel Selection, ask your consultant to review your covering letter before you send it. We know what our clients respond to and can help you make the strongest possible impression. |
