It may be relevant to include other information in your covering letter. Optional paragraphs: Other relevant information
Find out as much as possible about the field of work, the company and the type of role you are interested in. This is especially important if you are applying speculatively. Recruiters will not be impressed with a generic covering letter. Each letter should be tailored to the organisation and role.Third paragraph: Why them and why this role? Target the employer You can split this paragraph into two, depending on how much you have written. Make sure that your CV clearly provides evidence for statements that you make in your letter. Try not to repeat phrases from your CV.
Your degree, internships, part-time jobs, volunteering or extra-curricular experience are all valuable. Your examples could come from a variety of places. What have you got to offer them? Talk about any relevant experience, knowledge and skills and how you could contribute. Give reasons why the organisation should consider you.Convey your enthusiasm for the job and what you can bring to the company, rather than talking about yourself in a general way.To help with this, look at the job profiles on the Prospects website. You’ll need to work out which skills are required. If you’re not applying for a specific advertised post, you may not have a job description to help you.For example, 'I am a reliable and trustworthy person with good communication skills' doesn't show how you developed your skills. Instead, focus on how you developed your skills. Try to avoid highlighting generic skills and qualities in isolation. Keep your summary concise, with specific examples from your experiences.What can you bring that makes you attractive to the employer? Summarise the most relevant skills from your CV.Second paragraph: Why you? Summarise what you have to offer This could be work experience, shadowing or even the chance to meet and ask questions. If there are no vacancies available, you could get involved another way. Consider giving the employer a range of options. If you are applying speculatively, be as specific as you can about what you are looking for.For example: 'I believe I have the relevant skills, knowledge and experience to make a difference in this role and in your organisation.' A strong, confident and positive opening statement makes a good first impression.If the job or placement was advertised, include where you saw the advert. Briefly explain what you are doing now and why you are writing.If you can't find out the name of the person, use a generic term such as ‘Dear Hiring Manager’ or ‘Dear Recruitment Team’. If you're unsure about their gender, marital status, or preferred pronoun, you can use their full name. If you are making a speculative application you should contact the organisation to ask for a key contact who can help with recruitment.You can do this by contacting the organisation or checking the website. If a name is not given, try to find out who you should address your letter to. It's important to get their name and job title right.