cover letter

[ste v]

im currently applying for a job online and it asks me to complete a cover letter - what info should i put on it ? thanks

[Philtaz]

Something like...

Dear Sir/Madam

I am responding to your recent advertisement for (insert job title)

I wish to pursue a fresh and exciting career as a (insert job title) and to that end am submitting the relevant application forms/documentation for your perusal.

I look forward to hearing from you.

[factor-fiction]

To build on the above answer, if your CV/application form contains only factual information then in my experience the cover letter should also include an explanation of why you are attracted to the role and, more importantly, why you are suitable (or indeed the ideal candidate) for the role- so you would match your qualifications, skills and experience to the requirements of the role.

[Buenchico]

As others have effectively indicated, what goes in the covering letter depends upon what is already in the main application.

Philtaz's draft is fine if you've already provided all of the relevant information elsewhere. But if your application is little more than an outline c.v., the covering letter provides you the opportunity to expand upon it. For example, your application/c.v. might show that you previously worked as a 'customer service assistant' (with no detail as to what you actually did) but the job description calls for 'problem solving skills' and 'a good telephone manner'. In which case you can write "In my my previous employment, with J Bloggs Ltd, I was frequently called upon to deal with complex enquiries from customers, both face-to-face and by telephone. I enjoyed this part of the work, as it enabled me to exercise my strong problem-solving and communication skills".

Chris

[boxtops]

I agree with the others - the covering letter is a good way of personalising an application, just a c.v. doesn't tell them about how you can apply your skills, and why you want the job.

[sophie_1003]

Just to expand on what others have said; you can use the covering letter to explain how you meet each aspect of the person specification making reference to any relevant experience or training you have.