Careers - GUIDE TO APPRENTICESHIPS

Covering letters A covering letter introduces you to an employer and asks them to consider your application. It’s a short letter - three or four paragraphs - that you should send with your CV or application form. If you are sending your CV by email, include it in the body of your email but remember to keep it professional. You can draw attention to some of the key facts and comments from your CV and make out an overall ‘case’ for being a suitable candidate for the job you are applying for. Show that you understand what the employer is looking for by matching the words in their advert with your own skills and achievements. A covering letter should complement not duplicate your CV. As with your CV, you will need to tweak it for each job you apply for to ensure you target the specific company and job role. AI could be used to generate a draft framework, however, please be advised many employers use software to identify any plagiarism. Ensure this is all your own work. Employers who receive these letters are busy, so aim to be concise to encourage them to consider you fully. This means that you will need to: • Be brief • Use a formal style • Say what you mean. Use words that suggest decisiveness and energy • Use words that are appropriate and credible • Focus on a few good points, choosing those most relevant to the job • Always end on a positive note What to include • You need to state who you are and why you are applying • Introduce yourself in a few words which reflect your personality • Include where you found out about the job and any vacancy reference number • Highlight your achievements – match them to the job description • Create a positive image of yourself • Why you are suitable for the job and what you can bring to the role

– 15 –

COVERING LETTERS