If my readers only had time to read one chapter of my new book, Brilliant Cover Letters, I would most like it to be the chapter which lists my 5 Top Tips. It encapsulates the most important principles that I cover in the book:
1) Get through to the right person
The best person to whom to address your cover letter is the person who is going to be making the decision as to whether or not to interview you. It’s very important to reach the person who actually has the power to make the decision you want them to make.
2) Communicate clearly, concisely, engagingly and articulately
It is essential for your letter to be easy for the reader to scan quickly and effectively. Take your time to carefully phrase your thoughts; do not rush yourself. Your style of writing should be formal and professional but this doesn’t mean it needs to sound stiff and starchy – quite the opposite.
3) Tell a good story
Like all the best stories, the best letters have a strong – and clearly defined – beginning, middle and end. Capture their attention, make an impact, maintain their interest and finish with a strong closing paragraph.
4) Target/Tailor your letter
You should always tailor your letters according to the specific organisation to which you are applying. A carefully targeted letter can easily mean the difference between success and failure. Nobody likes being spammed.
5) Check your spelling and your grammar
Before sending off any letter, make sure you have read through it very carefully and that there are no spelling or grammatical errors. Shockingly, The CV Centre’s research has shown that 60% of CVs and cover letters contain at least one linguistic error. For documents which are supposed to be perfect, that’s a fairly staggering proportion isn’t it?!
Writing a cover letter is not rocket science. Most of what I outline in Brilliant Cover Letters is reasonably simple to take on board and it’s just a matter of putting in the necessary time and effort.
GOOD LUCK!
