Writing a cover letter

A cover letter aims to persuade an employer to read your CV - so it's vital to make an impact with yours. It needs to highlight why you're interested in the job and why you're suitable for the role you're applying for.

How to write your cover letter

Use the following steps to write your cover letter:

1. Contact details

Start with your contact details in the top right-hand corner of the A4 letter.

Write the company address in the top left-hand corner.

2. First lines

You should try and find the name of the person to whom you're addressing the letter. If it’s not possible, use "Dear Sir/Madam".

In the next line, include a reference to the job title and reference number such as "RE: Graduate Trainee – Finance stream (reference: abc/123/pb)".

3. Introduction

The first section of a cover letter is a chance to briefly introduce yourself. Include what subject you are studying at University and at what stage of University you are. Confirm the role that you're applying for and where you saw it advertised.

4. Main body

The next sections should consist of no more than two or three brief paragraphs. Explain why you're interested in the role and provide evidence to support your interest. For example, you may want to talk about work experience or aspects of your course that inspired your interest. Ensure all your evidence from your studies, work experience and volunteering is related directly to the position you're applying for.

Evidence of how you meet the job requirements, keeping it clear and concise. Explain your specific interest in the organisation you’re applying to and why you want to work for them. You need to research the employer well. You may want to evidence your interest in one of the organisation’s projects, area of work, ethos or values. Make sure you come across well-prepared. Remember to be positive in explaining what you could contribute to the role and the business of the employer.

5. Final paragraph

In the final paragraph, remember to conclude the letter on a friendly note. Thank the reader for their attention and for considering your application. You can also use this space to offer to supply additional information, such as a reference.

6. Sign off

End the letter by signing off "Yours sincerely" if addressed to a person or "Yours faithfully" if you have addressed it to Sir/Madam.

Disability disclosure

The decision to disclose a disability to an employer is personal and may be based on factors such as the nature of the disability and the demands of the role being applied for. Disabilities can be disclosed in a cover letter or at other stages of the application process. This is a matter of personal preference.

If you choose to disclose a disability, explain any assistance that may be needed. You can speak with a careers adviser or contact the employer directly before sending in any applications to discuss any additional support required during the selection process or in the role itself. It's important to answer any direct questions from employers fully and honestly.

If you are a student or graduate with a disability, disclosing your disability is a personal choice. We have a guide to disability, equality and diversity when applying for jobs.

Tips for a good cover letter

• Target your cover letter towards the employer and the job - researching the employer is essential to show knowledge of the position applied for, and how you fit in the company

• Highlight relevant information from your CV – but don't just copy and paste

• Use the cover letter to explain any inconsistencies in your CV such as gaps in your employment history

• Tell the employer how their company will benefit from employing you

• Make sure the paragraphs are short and clearly themed

• Use no more than one side of A4

• Wherever possible, address the cover letter to a named person - you may have to ring the employer to find the name of the person you should be writing to