Cover Letter TipsGet noticed with a well written cover letter!
The main purpose of a cover letter is to get you to the interview stage and show that you are right for the job.
The aim is to show you that you have the skills, experience and attitude necessary to do the job.
A cover letter is essentially a sales pitch. It can help you capture the employer's attention.
Tip 1:
Like all sales pitches don't fall at the first hurdle and talk about yourself. To really capture a potential employers attention talk about them. Mention company/industry news, advertisements, awards etc - Google the company! - Learn as much as you can about them and how they operate.
Tip 2:
Personalise the cover letter by addressing it to the right person. Make sure you spell the name right!
Tip 3:
Keep the letter short and sweet. Be direct and write clearly.
Tip 4:
Don't be afraid to sell yourself. Use keywords the employer used in the job advert and match your skills to them.
Tip 5:
Don’t just copy your CV. Highlight the skills that are most relevant to the job. Rehash keywords the employer used in the job advert.
Company website's often mention the characteristics they are looking for in employees. Illustrate that you have these qualities.
Tip 6:
Double check and re-read the cover letter for errors. Typo's are big no-no. Use the spell checker in Microsoft Word. Perhaps get a friend to look over your cover letter.
Subscribers (Its FREE to join!) on EmployIreland have the ability to send cover letters with every job application.
Final Tip:
BE SMART and tweak the cover letter for each job you apply for.
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