In most cases, the CV is accompanied by a letter – especially when it is sent by e-mail. It is essential when you contact various employers when no job is posted. The cover letter gives you the opportunity to:
- introduce yourself,
- provide a brief description of your qualifications, and more importantly,
- persuade the reader (employer) to read your CV.
In particular, the cover letter links your education and training with the responsibilities of the job position you are applying for. In the cover letter you focus on skills that would be of particular interest to the employer and highlight important achievements mentioned in your CV. In other words, you explain what you have to offer and why you are interested in the specific job position. Therefore, you should write a different letter for every job position you are applying for, depending on the characteristics and requirements of the position.
The cover letter serves as your first introduction to a potential employer. Like your CV, the cover letter is a sample of the work you can offer. Therefore, it must be characterized by professionalism and highlight your executive function skills. If it is carefully written and contains the right information, you can be sure you will make a good first impression. Do not forget that the ultimate goal is to be able to arrange a meeting for a personal interview.
Attention!
Take time to write a successful cover letter that will help you stand out rather than sending a simple accompanying message. Make sure it is free of spelling and grammar mistakes, whether written in your native language or in a foreign language.
In case you send the cover letter by e-mail, it is better to write the text directly in the body of the e-mail to ensure immediate accessibility. Of course, you can also attach the cover letter, as well as your CV.
Useful tips for writing a cover letter
- Address the letter to a specific person in the company or organization you are interested in, who may be responsible for your recruitment.
Try to find out – if you don’t already know – the name, job title, and address of the person responsible so you can send your letter. Avoid addressing the HR department or anyone else in an impersonal manner. - Mention where you found the specific job position (e.g. posted ad on the website, recommendation made by a professor, etc.).
Do not hesitate to mention the name of the person/s that referred you to this position if they are an employee of the organization you are applying to and only after having obtained their consent. If you are sending your CV in response to a posted ad, indicate the source (website). - Mention the job title you are interested in and include the reference code of the position you are applying for (if available).
If there is no specific job opening, specify the type and field of work you are interested in. - Show that you know about the company or organization you are applying to.
It should be made clear that you know who they are, what they do, and why you chose them. Also show in what way the information you gathered captured your interest. - Briefly mention the skills relevant to the job position you are interested in.
Do not assume that the employer can relate your degree title to the objectives and requirements of the job. Focus on important skills already listed in your CV and try to link your skills to the job requirements in question. - Clearly state what you are asking for and what you can offer.
Try to prove that you understand how to help the company meet its goals. Do not just refer to your own benefits. - Do not exceed one page and follow the standard format of a business letter.
The tone of the letter should always reflect your writing style and personality. Remember that the cover letter is a reflection of you, so do not copy someone else’s letter. - Make sure you have explained how your potential employer can contact you.
For example, should they call you or should you call them, and when? Will they need to send a specific placement application filled in (e.g., in the case of an Erasmus placement)? - Note all attached documents at the end.
CV, portfolio, placement application (for Erasmus Placement)
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