Tailoring a covering letter is the best possible way of highlighting your genuine interest in a company / position you are applying for. A speculative letter can often give the impression that you are not 100% interested in the company.

To help you write your covering letter, we have compiled a "Tailored Covering Letter Checklist".

• Perform research into the company and industry - demonstrating your knowledge in these areas will no doubt impress the reader and encourage them to pursue your application.
• Make sure that your letter demonstrates evidence of any specific competencies the company are looking for. These can often be found on the application itself or by looking on the company's website.
• Does the position require specific qualifications? If it does, make sure they are mentioned in some way in your letter.
• Address the covering letter to the person named on the application form - this will stand a greater chance of actually being read.
• Refer to any references / names seen in the application / job advertisement. This should be stated at the top, for example "Re: Application 2505, Office Junior".

Speculative covering letters

If you are not applying for a specific job and are making a speculative application or general enquiry, the key objective of your covering letter is to express your interest in that particular company and industry together with your reasons for seeking employment there - detailing any relevant suggestion as to what you have to offer the company.

A well structured covering letter with relevant, informative details will provide you with an edge over possibly 100s of other applicants. Don't forget, all our CV services include a FREE covering letter and ongoing jobseeker advice.

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