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To each jobseeking advice you will find a correspondent checklist in our download section.
Cover Letter - presenting yourself favourably
The cover letter is often taken to be negligible. It is though very important and allows you to present yourself. This presentation will help you to stand out from all other applicants.
Why write a cover letter?
In order to be invited to an interview, your document folder must be convincing. A CV has a very limited form and doesn’t always allow you to present all the information you would like to give. With a cover letter you can draw attention to important points that are not elaborated in your CV. At the same time you can inform the recipient of your goals and your motives.
Formalities
The cover letter shouldn’t be longer than a page. Reread your letter and beware of spelling mistakes. If your application contains spelling mistakes it will be eliminated from the group of potentional candidates. If you are planning to send your documents by regular mail, take care of putting your cover letter on your document folder. If you are applying by e-mail you can write your cover letter in form of an e-mail text.
Clarity
Choose your layout carefully. Clarity and readability are important. The choice of the character style should suit the content of your letter. Make sure your paragraphs are well balanced. Don’t use too complicated language and keep your sentences short.
The parts of a cover letter
The subject heading should include a description of the position, where you found the advert and its date of publication. If a contact person is mentioned you should address to this person. This gives your letter a personal note. If you have already spoken to the contact person by phone you should refer to this conversation in your first paragraph.
Contents of the cover letter
Try to look at your current situation from the point of view of your future employer. What does your current professional situation look like? Try to highlight your qualifications and qualities. Find out in which way you could contribute to the firm. Explain why you think you are the ideal candidate for the position advertised.