If the purpose of your CV is to be shortlisted for an interview, why do you also need a cover letter? An effective cover letter should:

• Prove your interest/motivation for the role/company
• Provides further context and detail to your CV
• Evidences your communication skills
• Demonstrates you have the right skills and experience.
• A chance for you to differentiate yourself from the competition

 

As this suggests, cover letters should be individual and convey a convincing and personal motivation, however, if you are struggling to get started, here are some basic principles to help you:

• Begin by clearly stating the position you are applying for and how you heard about the vacancy
• Turn your attention to the company! Demonstrate in-depth research into this firm (look beyond a basic website check and a read of the job description) to show a compelling degree of motivation for the role and for the company itself. Consider their key values, behaviours and culture rather than simply focusing on the product/services that it offers.
• Now align your key skills and achievements to the company and their role. Highlight key skills and experience which demonstrate your relevance for the role in question and how you can add value. Employers look for hard evidence of your fit for the role, rather than reading too many cliched claims of you being committed, a good team player etc.
• Have an impactful short, positive closing statement. So, for example, suggest that you would be delighted to have an opportunity to further explain how you would add value to the organisation as well as learning more about the role. This demonstrates a good level of personal confidence and curiosity; two traits that any employer is looking for in candidates!