A cover letter is an essential document that accompanies your CV when applying for a job, referencing the job advertisement, your qualifications, and your attached resume.
What is Writing a Cover Letter to Apply for a Job?
A cover letter is a formal letter that has to accompany a CV. It usually refers to the advertisement for the post a candidate is applying for, with dates and source of the advertisement and a brief note on the applicant's background and qualification. The applicant's CV has to be enclosed/attached with the cover letter.
For more detailed guidance on professional paperwork, you can read our comprehensive guide on CV and Cover Letter: Writing CV.
How to Structure a Cover Letter for Job Applications?
- Mention the position you are applying for and where you learnt about the vacancy.
- Provide some information about your background and experience related to the advertised post.
- Provide information about your interest and suitability for the job. Show that you have some knowledge and skill about the job.
- Mention that you have attached a copy of your CV with other necessary documents.
- Have a good, clear format of your letter. Use the lay out and format of a formal letter.
- Print out in an A4 size offset paper. Use a laser printer.
- Use Microsoft word programme to process the letter.
Key Takeaways
- A cover letter must accompany your CV when applying for any job position.
- Always reference the job advertisement source and dates in your introduction.
- Highlight your relevant background, skills, and overall suitability for the role.
- Maintain a clean formal letter format and print it out on A4 offset paper using a laser printer.
Quick Practice
Practice writing your own introductory notes! Share your practice sentences in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cover letter?
A cover letter is a document that accompanies a CV, referencing the job advertisement, sources, dates, and a brief note on your background and qualifications.
What should you mention when writing a cover letter to apply for a job?
You should mention the position applied for, where you learned about the vacancy, your background, experience, interest, suitability, and confirmation that your CV is attached.
How should a cover letter be formatted and printed?
It should use a clear formal letter format, be processed using Microsoft Word, and be printed on A4 size offset paper using a laser printer.