The covering letter is not an unnecessary formality, it sets the tone for your CV
When sending off job applications, don't make the mistake of thinking a covering letter isn't important. It is. It sets the tone for your CV. And it can determine whether the reader proceeds with a positive or negative disposition. So it's a valuable opportunity to influence things to your advantage. Grab it.
In order to make the most of the covering letter, there are some rules you need to follow:
- Rule 1: Always include a covering letter. It is non-negotiable. And always include sufficient detail to make the reader want to keep on reading.
- Rule 2: Always personalise your covering letter. Do your homework so that you can direct it to a person with a name. "To whom it may concern" gives everyone a licence to ignore your letter, whereas addressing a particular person adds a degree of accountability for the reader. And it says something about you - you have taken the time and trouble to be thorough and professional.
- Rule 3: Understand why you are sending an application. What job are you applying for? Be specific. Don't ask for "any job", "anywhere". It is a weak marketing approach. Target your job hunt on a certain job/role/function. That way, you'll win more interest from recruitment consultants and employers. Why are you suited to the role? Provide two or three reasons. Briefly outline your career highlights - just a few lines to show that you're a competent, skilled person with a great attitude - and state your intentions: "Here's what I'll do for you..."
- Rule 4: Mention a few of your great accomplishments. Not just anything. Whatever you include should focus on the elements of your experience and achievements that demonstrate that you have the relevant ability to meet the needs of the employer.
- Rule 5: Does your experience have some unique angle? Mention it. Were you a Springbok swimmer? Have you climbed Kilimanjaro? Did you raise R50 000 for Cancer Awareness Week? Did you spend a week at the Nike SA headquarters as an intern? Did you self-fund your studies by waiting tables? Mentioning the unique aspects of your experience may well help differentiate you - particularly if your CV further explains how your experience has developed the skills a potential employer would find useful.
- Rule 6: State your availability for interviews and where you can be reached.
Gerard le Roux is a professional CV writer, job hunting coach and owner of career blog www.jobsearching.co.za
