Writing a cover letter: 24 cover letter tips

A job application cover letter can swiftly advance you to interview stage or cause you fall at the initial hurdle. To help avoid the latter and assist your route to success, we have put together a list of tips for writing a cover letter, compiled from our 15 years of recruitment experience.
 
Do

• Research the role and company; make specific references to convey interest
• Relate yourself and your expertise directly to the job and company
• Address the letter to a specific person if at all possible
• Ensure you address people by their correct personal and professional title
• Promote yourself, but be mindful not to use “I” at the start of every sentence
• Use vocabulary that creates an active rather than passive voice
• Quote measurable, tangible and relevant achievements  
• Establish a professional yet personal and enthusiastic tone
• Keep it to one page, unless there is a compelling reason to expand the content
• Close your letter in a positive manner and indicate an interest in meeting
• Make a positive summary statement as to why you are a strong match for the role
• Make sure the company name and role title is written as they present it
• Use a closing valediction which corresponds to the letter addressee

 
Don’t

• Write ‘To Whom It May Concern’, ‘Dear Sir/Madam’ is slightly better, but ideally avoided
• Use clichéd phrases such as: proven track record or results-driven
• Use jargon or acronyms unless it specifically benefits the content
• Make grammar or spelling errors; check carefully or enlist the services of a proofreader
• Quote subjective, unsubstantiated claims with no evidential facts and figures
• Tell them you are uniquely qualified for the position – no-one is!
• Set out your objectives – companies are only interested in what you can do for them
• Apologise for missing skills and experience, instead emphasise what you do offer
• Concentrate on style over content – now is not the time to explore your inner creativity
• Say “I am enclosing my CV” – it’s obvious and they will be expecting it
• End with a hard close for an interview or mention you will be calling to arrange one

If you need any further pointers or advice on writing a cover letter, get in touch we’d love to help