Support your CV with an outstanding cover letter
A CV on its own is rarely enough to impress a recruiter. You should always support your job application with an excellent cover letter.
In today's tough job market, making sure your cover letter stands out will ensure your application receives the attention it deserves. Follow my top tips for a winning cover letter:
1. Tailor your cover letter
Every job needs its own cover letter. Never use the same cover letter twice. Tailor your cover letter to the specific requirements of the vacancy.
2. Match your experience to the job
A cover letter is your chance to explain your CV in more detail. Don't simply regurgitate your CV but explain to recruiters how your experience makes you right for the role you're applying for.
3. Explain gaps in employment
Your cover letter is the ideal opportunity for giving details of any gaps in your employment history.
4. Make sure you can be contacted
Just like your CV, always include your contact details on your cover letter, phone number and email address.
5. Check it, and then check it again
It's always a good idea to get someone else to look over your cover letter to check it makes sense and there are no typing or grammatical errors you may have missed.
6. Show you're informed
Demonstrate to the recruiter that you've done your research and know about the company you're applying to.
7. Keep it short
Your cover letter shouldn't be any longer than one A4 page.
