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How to Write an Effective Covering Letter
 Analyse the job specification. Carefully read the job advertisement and pick out the key skills and experience required for the position. The more precisely your background matches the employers requirements, the greater your chance of being short-listed.
 Do some research. Try to find out as much as you can about the company. Business directories, trade magazines and the Internet are all good sources of information. Make use of this knowledge in your letter to show that you're aware of some of the employer's current problems, interests or priorities. For example, "I read with interest in this month's Technology World that your company has just won a major contract to supply...".
 Create a good first impression. Your covering letter should be on good quality, plain A4 paper - 80gm at least. If possible, it should be typed unless you are specifically asked to provide a handwritten letter. Remember to check for spelling mistakes.
 Get the name and address right. Whenever possible, address the letter to a named individual and include their job title. If you are writing a speculative letter, phone the company and ask who the most appropriate person would be. Never make assumptions about the sex of the recruiter - for example, if the name given in the job advertisement is "Sam Smith", don't begin the letter "Dear Mr Smith", use his/her first name instead.
 Make it clear which job you're applying for. Always quote the reference number and job title at the start of the letter.
 Write an upbeat letter. Express your enthusiasm and interest in the job and in working for the company, even if you have some doubts at this stage.
 Demonstrate that you are the best candidate. Tell the reader in very brief terms (perhaps using bullet points) why you would be a good choice for the job. Prove that you have the necessary skills and experience by giving some concrete examples. Leave out any negative or irrelevant points.
 Stand out from the crowd. If you have a special talent or unique skill that is
relevant to the job, make sure you mention it.
 Use their language. Every field has it's own jargon and technology. You will come across as more experienced if you use the correct terms when describing your ability and expertise. A good way to improve your knowledge of the field is to read the relevant trade magazines.
 Try a little flattery. The judicious use of flattery can be quite effective and
also shows that you know a little about the company - for example, "Your company has an impressive track record in the field of Web site development...". But, don't overdo it or you may come across as insincere.
 Project friendliness and self-confidence. Avoid using generic phrases like "Dear Sir or Madam" or "Enclosed please find" which will make your letter sound cold and impersonal. Be polite, but don't be too humble, or you will come across as terribly lacking in confidence in your ability to get the job.
 Keep your letter fairly brief. Three or four paragraphs on one A4 page is usually sufficient. Most of the information about your career history and educational background will be in your CV.
 Take the initiative. If you are writing on a speculative basis, take the initiative about the next step by saying that you will call the employer in a few days time. Your closing sentence could be something like "I would welcome the opportunity to discuss any possible job openings with you, and to that end I will call your office next week to see if a meeting can be arranged".
 Check that you have provided all the information requested. Read the advertisement's reply instructions carefully. Advertisers will rarely come back to you to request information you have omitted - they will normally have plenty of other applicants to choose from. Always make sure that your signature is clear and legible, or type your name underneath.
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