Mastering Covering Letters: Key Elements
Mastering Covering Letters: Key Elements
Lesson duration is: 60 minItems in this lesson
Mastering Covering Letters: Key Elements
What do you already know about Covering Letters?
Learning Objective
By the end of this lesson you should be able to identify and write the essential elements of a Covering Letter.
What is a Covering Letter?
A covering letter is a short letter you send with your CV. It tells an employer why you want the job and why you are uniquely suitable for the role you are applying for.
It is a formal one page document highlighting your relevant skills and motivation tailored specifically to the role and the company/organisaztion.
Key aspects of a Covering Letter
Structure- 3 to 5 paragraphs long
Tone- Professional, polite and persuasive
Purpose- Explain why you would be a good fit for the role and the company
Formatting- Formal language, simple font, contact information
Sign-off
What should be included in the header?
Personal hobbies
Your contact information
Recipient's address
Date
What is the purpose of the introduction?
State the job you are applying for
List your qualifications in detail
What should the closing paragraph contain?
Thank you for considering my application
A list of demands
Parts of a Covering Letter
Include your name, address, phone number and email at the top.
Write the date under your contact details.
Contact Details
Date
Employer's Details
Add the employer’s name, company and address under the date.
Greeting
Begin with 'Dear Mr/Ms [Surname]' or 'Dear Hiring Manager' if you don’t know the name.
Opening Paragraph
Say which job you are applying for and where you saw it.
Middle Paragraphs
Briefly explain why you are suitable for the job. Give 1-2 examples.
Why This Job
Explain why you want this job and to work for this company.
Your Skills
Ending and Signature
End with a positive sentence, like 'I look forward to hearing from you.' Write 'Yours sincerely' or 'Yours faithfully' and your name.
Sample Structure
Look at the examples given to help you plan what you will write in your own covering letter.
Top Tips For Success
Keep your letter clear and short. Check for mistakes, use grammar and spell check. Use positive language.
Reflection: Your Covering Letter
Think: Which part of the covering letter would you like to practise first?
Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.
Write down 2 things you want to know more about.
Any further questions?
