A Covering Letter is one of the most important documents required when applying for any position. In short, the Covering Letter is the first thing an employer will look at and is the opening to your Curriculum Vitae.
A Covering Letter needs to be concise and to-the-point, providing the employer with a snapshot of yourself as a person and your capabilities, along with anything else interesting. It is your chance to initially shine and ensure your application is not discarded.
As with any documentation you submit when applying for a job, the Covering Letter needs to be well prepared, highlight your strongest assests and error free. Finally, a Covering Letter should be a single page in length.
A Covering Letter template is shown below. The areas highlighted in RED need to be changed to your personal details whilst the areas highlighted in BLACK need to be edited so this template becomes personalised.
COVERING LETTER TEMPLATE
Company Name & Address (Left). Your Name & Address (Right)
Dear Mr/Mrs Name or Sir/Madam,
Vacancy Reference or Job Title
I should like to be considered for the post of Job Title as advertised in/on Publication/Website. Opening line about yourself here, for example: I recently graduated from Edinburgh University with a B.S.c Degree in Computer Science. Further explanation: This degree focused primarily on Computer Programming, System Analysis and Design Implementation.
What you are doing just now: Presently, I am employed as a PHP Developer for XYZ Solutions, a website design company based in Edinburgh. The role involves understanding the new client requests, suggesting improvements to the design and building it to ensure it provides the best possible customer experience and fits the criteria required.
Anything additional work related: In addition to my full time post, I volunteer my spare time assisting operate a Charity shop. I undertake a variety of tasks, including providing customer service, stock control and general maintenance. Charity work has always interested me as I enjoy helping others.
Studying for a degree and working have made it necessary for me to learn very quickly how to prioritise tasks, and have instilled in me the need to remain flexible. I have had to be highly organised in order to meet tight deadlines both at work and study.
I feel that I would be able to offer the position advertised a great deal, as along with my programming experience, I have the ability to communicate successfully at all levels and a solid understanding of good customer service.
Many thanks for taking the time to read my application. I hope I am fortunate enough to hear from you again.
Yours sincerely,
Your Signature
Your Name.- - - - -
Your Covering Letter is like the first page of a book - you want to hook the reader and ensure they don’t stop reading. The Covering Letter template above should be personalised with your finest characteristics to ensure your application is unique and eye-catching. Good luck!