HOW TO WRITE A COVER LETTER

A cover letter is a document used to sell you for a given job.  A cover letter should be restricted to one page and contain information that does not appear in your CV or resume.  This information shows you are different from or even better than the other persons applying for the same job.

Purpose of a cover letter:
First, to make the reader want to read more about your resume or CV;
To get you an interview;
To show that one can do the job; one’s interest in and attitude towards the job; and if one’s values and goals match the organization’s values and goals.

Some points to note when preparing a cover letter:
Grammatical and spelling abilities;
Consistency with letter format (i.e. business standards);
Attention to details with regards to typing errors and information;
Communication skills;
How well one expresses his or her ideas (style);
Use of the same type of paper for both the cover letter and CV or resume

Cover letters can be written in the following styles:

Block style – the whole letter begins at the left margin
Semi blocked style – your address, date, closing, and signature are on the right; while the recruiter’s/HR’s address and body of the letter begin at the left margin.

The next page gives you an example of both styles of letter writing.  Please note that their usage varies from one organization to the other or from one person to the other. 
Therefore, you are free to choose a style that is more appropriate to yourself or easier for you.

Remember:
Always include a cover letter with your CV or resume when sending in an application for a job.
Change the cover letter, based on the job you are applying for (some paragraphs may still be same).
Have several people (lecturer, friend, or even the career office) check your cover letter, CV, or resume before the final print and dispatching it to the respective organization(s).