Do I need to write a cover letter?
Yes, a cover will enable you to further tailor your comments to the requirement of the job role. It also helps to highlight any aspect that you want to draw to the attention of the recruiter
COVER LETTER
What is a cover letter?
A cover letter accompanies a CV (and/or completed/ filled application form). It’s an opportunity to highlight what’s in your CV and to provide real example to support your ability to do the job. Some recruiter place more emphasis on the cover letter than the CV so it pays to take care with it. Whether your cover letter is hand written or electronic, it will be the first thing an employer reads. This means it’s a good idea to write something short and snappy that makes your reader want to take a look at your CV or application form.
If you’re applying to a number of similar positions, then it’s tempting to keep using the same cover letter. However, it’s best to change your letter slightly for each position. Don’t forget to update the company, job and contact information- if Mr. Mutua is addressed as Mrs. Kajuang then your application form could end in the end up in the dust bin
Most importantly, you should always include your contact details. You might already have this information on your CV, but there is no harm in providing it twice.
Research your employer
It is important to research your employer to find out what they really look for in that particular organization
What should I write in a cover letter?
Unless you are asked to apply by letter of application only, a cover letter should be brief and drive home the key aspects of why you are a good candidate. It should summarize what’s in your CV by emphasizing your key strengths in relation to the job.
A cover letter should include a heading to make it clear which job youre applying for and following the introductory paragraph, it can take the form of bullet points or short statements. It should also include your own name, address and contact details.
How do I start and end a cover letter?
Make it clear which job you’re referring to by using a heading and an opening line such as;
In response to your advertisement on the prospect website…/ in the daily nation dated…/I wish to apply for the position of…., / I refer to your advertisement which appeared in the daily nation of Monday, 11 January 2016 and I wish to apply for…/ I am writing to apply for the above…/ for the position of … which you advertised in… / which appeared in…/ your advertisement on the ….. Which appeared in the ….. Refers.
If you are given a named person you should address the letter to that person and begin the letter, dear MS Amollo and end with yours sincerely,
If you don’t know the name of the person you are addressing / receiver, but have a job title, such as the HR manager, you should address the letter to the HR manager, and use dear sir/ madam, and end with yours faithfully
A cover letter should always end positively and look ahead to the next stage, for example I would be happy to provide further details at interview or I look forward to hearing from you, I hope you will consider my application and I look forward to hearing from you.
How do I write a cover letter for a job that’s not advertised?
This kind of letter is sometimes referred to as speculative letter or un-solicited. This means that you’re writing to find out if there are likely to be any vacancies in the future. Your speculative letter should be welcoming and enthusiastic.
It’s more difficult to write a speculative letter because you are not responding to a specific vacancy but with some research about the company, you can find out about previous job advertisements and angle your letter accordingly.
If you’ve undertaken work experience at the company, you can draw on your knowledge of that.