Covering Letters

While the resume is a summary of your career, skills, objectives and qualifications, the cover letter allows you to tailor your application to each specific job.  Although the format of your letter may remain the same, each one should have a clear and individual message directed to the specific job.

All cover letters should:

• Explain why you are applying for the position
  
• Indicate what you know about the position or the organisation
  
• Convince the reader to look at your resume
• Call attention to elements of your background — education, leadership, experience etc. - that are relevant to the position
• Reflect your attitude, personality, motivation, enthusiasm, and communication skills
• Provide or refer to any information specifically requested in the job advertisement that might not be covered in your resume, such as availability date
• Indicate what you will do to follow-up, i.e. you will call, email or write.