Jobs and self-employment - Youth Employment Hub

A cover letter is a short letter, no longer than a size of A4, which introduces you to a potential employer. It's your chance to add in more information to demonstrate why you would be an asset to the organisation, which couldn't be included in your CV.

Writing a stand-out cover letter can be your golden ticket to landing that dream job or training opportunity. Here's how to make your cover letter shine:

Personalise your pitch

Generic cover letters are easy to spot and often end up in the rejection pile. Take the time to research the company or organisation you're applying to and tailor your cover letter to match their values, mission, and the specific job or training programme you're interested in.

Start strong

Your opening sentence should grab attention and make the reader want to learn more about you. Consider leading with a relevant accomplishment, or your passion for the industry.

Highlight your achievements

Use your cover letter to showcase your skills, experiences, and achievements. Instead of simply listing your qualifications, provide concrete examples of how you've demonstrated those skills and personal attributes in previous roles, volunteer work, or personal projects.

Connect the dots

Bridge the gap between your experiences and the requirements of the job or training programme. Explain how your skills and accomplishments make you the perfect fit for the position and how you can contribute to the organisation's goals.

Show your enthusiasm

Employers and recruiters want to see that you're genuinely interested in the opportunity. Express your enthusiasm for the role and the company, and explain why you're excited about the possibility of joining their team. You could list at the end of the cover letter a few reasons as to why you are suitable and why you are applying for the role.

Keep it concise and relevant

Aim for a cover letter that is clear, concise, and to the point. Avoid rambling or including irrelevant information. Stick to one page and use short paragraphs to make your letter easy to read.

Proofread

Spelling and grammar mistakes can leave a negative impression on employers. Before sending out your cover letter, double (or triple) check for any errors. Consider asking a friend or family member to review it as well for a fresh perspective.

Remember, crafting a standout cover letter is a skill that takes time and practice to perfect. Don't be discouraged if you don't see immediate results. Keep refining your approach and learning from each application experience.