This letter refers directly to the job being applied for. It doesn't repeat the information in the CV but highlights and expands the information in the CV to say why you are especially suitable for that job.
A properly crafted letter should take up to an hour to write approximately. Do not stick some thoughts down and attach your CV, it'll be at a big disadvantage. The job market is tough at the moment and you need to do everything you can to stand out from the crowd.
Remember that when we begin a letter without a name, for example Dear Sir, we end with Yours faithfully. When we begin with a name, for example Dear Mrs Williams, we end with Yours sincerely.
COVER LETTER LAYOUT
1. Your address
2. Name of the company
3. Their address
4. The date
Dear Sir / Madam,
5. Why you’re writing (1st paragraph)
6. Information about your suitability for the job and why you want the job (2nd paragraph)
7. Additional information (3rd paragraph)
8. Closing sentence
Yours faithfully,
9. Your signature
10. Your name
Here are some examples of cover letters:
- British Council - Business English Task 2
- National College of Ireland - Cover letter Handout
- Australian Government - Write a cover letter
- American University Washington D.C. - Sample cover letters
TASK: YOUR COVER LETTER
Look at the job ads (advertisements) below from the newspaper and write a cover letter for the job. Write your cover letters and post them as a comment to this entry.
