CV

Curriculum Vitae’s

Traditional CV & Creative CV
Save your CV as a PDF and upload this as a file

Adding a File

How to write a cover letter

Your cover letter accompanies your CV.  If you are emailing a potential employer, write your cover letter in the body of your email.  If you are applying for a job online, have it as a separate PDF. This is your opportunity to talk directly to the employer about why you want to work for them, so spend some time getting it right.

Make sure you tailor your letter to each company or individual that you contact. Use the person’s name. Don’t write, “To whom it may concern.” You should adapt your CV and cover letter to fit the needs of each person you send them to. Show that you have researched their company, either by referencing their recent work or by making it clear you know the sort of projects they are involved in.

Try to keep your cover letter brief, and in three sections:

• Your reason for writing (e.g. “I am writing to apply for your vacancy in…”)
• Your selling points (skills or experience that show you have what the employer is looking for)
• A prompt for further action (e.g. “I’d welcome the opportunity to meet with you to discuss my suitability for the role…”)

How to be persistent

If you don’t hear back from an employer, you can follow up with a short email, but continuing to send them multiple emails will probably do more harm than good. Try to strike the right balance between showing your enthusiasm and interest in the role without pestering the employer.

“Persistence is to be applauded…being a pest not so much!” says Gareth. “Contacting a company once a month is about right.”