cover letter format in south africa

Cover Letter Examples

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500+ Cover Letter Examples: Your Key to African Job Market Success!

Unlock the door to career success in Africa with our exclusive collection of 500+ Cover Letter Examples. Each one is HR-approved and ATS-friendly, designed to elevate your job-seeking game on the continent. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting your journey, harness the power of compelling Cover Letters to open doors to your dream career. Your pathway to success starts right here!"

Accounting resume examples

An accountant’s primary duties include analyzing financial data and budget forecasts, creating balance sheets, profit and loss and taxation reports, and assisting organizations in finance management, tax strategies and effective use of resources. Accountants also work in specialized areas such as tax, cost, investment or management accounting.

• Cost Accountant
• Accounting Assistant
• Internal Auditor
• Accounting Administrator
• Accounting Manager
• Assistant Corporate Controller
• Project Accountant
• Staff Accountant
• Staff Auditor
• Accounting Clerk

Administrative resume samples

Review some of these samples of a resume for administrative work for resume ideas to feature your organizational and collaboration skills.

• Administrative Assistant
• Office Assistant
• Assistant Front Office Manager
• Office Manager
• Administrative Assistant Manager
• Administrative Officer
• Administrative Coordinator
• Procurement Analyst
• Executive Assistant
• Procurement Specialist
• Facilities Manager
• Receptionist
• Administrative Front Desk Clerk
• Front Office Assistant

Billing and collections resume examples

In addition to our featured example resume for billings and collections, we offer more examples of a resume for a job to help you shine in this industry. .

• Accounts Payable Clerk
• Debt Collection Manager
• Accounts Payable Manager
• Night Auditor
• Accounts Receivable Clerk
• Payroll Analyst
• Accounts Payable Receivable Manager
• Payroll Manager
• Accounts Payable Specialist
• Collections Representative
• Collections Team Lead
• Accounts Payable Supervisor
• Billing Specialist

Business operations resume samples

Examples of resumes for jobs in your field can help you write a great resume. These professional resume examples for leadership jobs show how to display your interpersonal skills.

• Business Development Associate
• Business Management
• Enterprise Management Trainee
• General Manager
• Iso Management Representative
• Liaison Officer
• Operations Manager
• Pmo Analyst
• Risk Analyst
• Salon Manager

Child care resume examples

Use these samples of resumes as guides for displaying your ability to keep the household organized and your interpersonal skills.

• After School Teacher
• Daycare Teacher Assistant
• After School Program Director
• Daycare Worker
• Playground Supervisor
• Child Care Center Administrator
• Day Care Center Administrator

Computer software resume samples

As detailed in the examples of good resumes for computer software jobs below, list programs required for the position and any additional certifications or training you have in software.

• Cloud Computing Engineer
• Java Developer
• Software Engineering Manager
• Ecommerce Qa Tester
• Sql Developer
• Remote Software Engineer

Construction resume examples

Let our construction work resume examples help you stress special skills like specialties, such as plumbing or electrical systems.

• Flooring Installer
• Certified Crane Operator
• General Laborer
• Chief Estimator
• Construction Manager
• Construction Chief Executive Officer
• Project Manager
• Construction Laborer
• Construction Safety Officer
• Construction Worker
• Construction Site Supervisor

Culinary resume samples

Find a resume example for a job in the culinary field from these sample resumes and grab some ideas on showing your expertise with specific cuisines and ability to collaborate with others.

• Bakery Assistant
• Food Service Specialist
• Personal Chef
• Restaurant Assistant Manager
• Restaurant Chain Manager
• Restaurant General Manager
• Restaurant Manager
• Restaurant Shift Leader
• Restaurant Shift Manager
• Restaurant Shift Supervisor
• Junior Sous Chef

Customer service resume examples

Use an example of a resume to apply to a job in customer service, emphasizing intangible qualities such as communication, teamwork and flexibility.

• Customer Service Advisor
• Banking Representative
• Call Center Manager
• Call Center Representative
• Call Center Team Leader
• Camp Counselor
• Client Service Specialist
• Customer Experience Manager
• Customer Relationship Officer
• Customer Service Assistant Manager
• Customer Service Representative
• Customer Success Manager
• Customer Service Supervisor
• Director Of Member Services

Data & systems administration resume samples

Use these great resume examples for guidance on how to feature your key soft skills such as collaboration and problem-solving.

• Backup Administrator
• Control Systems Engineer
• Cyber Security Specialist
• Data Analytics Manager
• Network Admin
• Entry Level Network Engineer
• Salesforce Administrator
• Salesforce Developer
• Solutions Architect
• Telecommunication Project Manager

Fitness and nutrition resume examples

Follow our resume samples to see how to best display your fitness training experience and any knowledge or training you’ve had in diet and nutrition programs.

• Dietary Aide
• Exercise Physiologist
• Fitness And Personal Trainer
• Gym Assistant
• Nutritionist
• Personal Trainer
• Yoga Instructor

Food service resume samples

Note how these professional resume examples feature skills such as a strong work ethic, the ability to work well with others, multitasking and flexibility.

• Bar Supervisor
• Cafeteria Worker
• Catering Server
• Cocktail Server
• Crew Member
• Fast Food Server
• Food And Beverage Manager
• Food And Beverage Server
• Restaurant Server

Healthcare Support Resume Examples

These professional healthcare support examples for a resume cover major health support fields. Use one of these sample resumes as a guide to writing a great resume.

• Assisted Living Coordinator
• Assisted Living Executive Director
• Companion Caregiver
• Direct Support Professional
• Healthcare System Administrator
• Healthcare Operations Manager
• Healthcare Program Manager
• Home Health Aide
• Intensive Care Nurse
• Medical Assistant
• Occupational Therapist
• Patient Coordinator
• Personal Care Assistant
• Personal Support Worker
• Phlebotomist

Information technology resume samples

Take a cue from some of the best resume examples from My Perfect Resume and show off your problem-solving abilities. Let these examples of a good resume be your guide.

• Agile Project Manager
• Assistant Project Manager
• Contracts Manager
• Devops Engineer
• Global Project Manager
• Help Desk Support
• Project Management Director
• Technical Project Manager
• Technical Support Engineer

Medical resume examples

Highlight specialized medical training and certifications using these medical job resume examples as a guide. Include experience in hospitals and private practice.

• Anesthesia Technician
• Clinical Director
• Dialysis Technician
• Ekg Technician
• Hospital Volunteer
• Intensive Care Physician
• Medical Coding Specialist
• Medical Records Specialist
• Certified Lactation Consultant
• Nuclear Medicine Technologist
• Optometrist
• Pediatrician
• Physician Assistant
• Registered Mri Technologist
• Speech Language Pathologist
• Ultrasound Technician

Nursing resume samples

We have the perfect resume examples to help you display your interpersonal and communication skills, time management, attention to detail and empathy. Choose a nursing job resume example below to get started!

• Acute Care Nurse
• Advanced Practice Rn
• Chief Nursing Officer
• Geriatric Nurse Practitioner
• Labor And Delivery Nurse
• Nurse Practitioner
• Nursing Assistant
• Oncology Nurse
• Pediatric Nurse
• Registered Nurse
• Public School Nurse
• Trauma Nurse

Production resume examples

A professional experience resume example from the following list of resume examples for jobs in production can show how to display licenses for operating specialized equipment.

• Apparel Production Manager
• Assembly Line Operator
• Chemical Plant Operator
• Forklift Operator
• Machine Operator
• Picker And Packer
• Pipeline Inspector
• Pipeline Welder
• Plant Manager
• Production Manager
• Supply Chain Manager
• Telecommunications Technician
• Logistics Assistant Manager

Retail resume samples

Use the example resumes below as guides to showcase your customer service skills and experience managing products and services on your retail employee resume.

• Retail Assistant Manager
• Sales Associate
• Bookstore Clerk
• Clothing Sales Associate
• Convenience Store Clerk
• District Manager
• Fine Watches Sales Specialist
• Retail Management Professional
• Retail Manager
• Retail Parts Pro
• Store Manager
• Walgreens Service Clerk

Sales Resume Examples

Like the resume samples below, it’s important to provide details on experiences where you’ve hit sales targets. You’re sure to find a good resume sample among the professional experience resume examples below to help you do so.

• Sales Assistant Manager
• Channel Sales Manager
• Direct Sales Representative
• Franchise Owner
• Independent Sales Representative
• Inside Sales Representative
• Sales Account Executive
• Outside Sales Representative
• Sales Representative
• Experienced Telemarketer

Social Services resume samples

Show you can relate well with others and have a strong problem-solving approach,like the professionals in the social services job resume examples below.

• Case Manager
• Case Worker
• Child Protection Social Worker
• Community Outreach Specialist
• Community Service Coordinator
• Domestic Violence Counselor
• Human Service Worker
• Humanitarian Aid Worker
• Juvenile Probation Officer
• Social Worker
• Drug And Alcohol Counselor
• Medical Social Worker

Teaching resume examples

The following professional resume examples for teaching job resumes focus on important intangible skills such as communication, enthusiasm and patience.

• Preschool Teacher
• Adjunct Professor
• Assistant Teacher
• Early Childhood Teacher
• Elementary Teacher
• Esl Teacher
• High School Teacher
• Homeschool Teacher
• Language Professor
• Middle School Teacher
• Nurse Educator
• Piano Teacher
• Summer Teacher
• Social services
• Information technology
• Healthcare and support
• Food service
• Fitness & nutrition
• Data & systems administration
• Customer service
• Construction
• Computers software
• Business operations
• Billing and collections
• Administrative

500+ Cover Letter Samples for African Job Seekers

Explore our collection of 500+ Cover Letter samples designed to boost your job search in Africa. Find the perfect words to make your application stand out and land your dream job today!

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You need to go through a cover letter for CV example. It is a simple guideline for writing application letters for jobs. However, do not rely on all the online samples because some of them do not use the South African writing structure. The formats for drafting a job application letter vary slightly per country because of the different education systems. For you to get the attention of the employer in South Africa, please stick to the South African format.

Free company profile template: What you need to know

What is a cover letter for CV?

It is a one-page document that you MUST send with a resume to employers when looking for a job. In the document, you should provide the employer with details about the unique skills and experience that you possess, which are in line with what the job needs.

Cover letter format

Recruitment policies within organizations slightly differ from one organization to another. Some companies may need the job application letter while others may not because they may assume that the resume has all the required information they need to know about you.

Today, the majority of organizations insist that applicants should apply for jobs online. However, there are companies that still accept the traditional handwritten cover letters. Here is a detailed discussion about the appropriate format for penning a letter of employment in South Africa.

Date and contacts

In a hard copy, write the date of application, your address, and lastly, the company's address. Do not change the order of these items and arrange them vertically while leaving a space after each one of them.

What to include in a sworn affidavit template

In a digital copy for an online application, there is no need to write the company's address and your address. The essential information that the employer should know is your city, country, cellphone contacts, and email.

Use the name of the contracting manager to address him or her. This shows that you know who you are writing to because you have done research about the company. The titles Mr., Mrs., and Miss. in a CV cover letter can offend the manager because you may be wrong about the marital status of the person. The world has moved away from the traditional "Dear Sir/Madam" greetings to "Dear Hiring Manager" because the latter is more appealing than the former. The "Dear Hiring Manager" salutation is also a clever cover-up for not knowing the names of the managers.

First paragraph

Here is the part where you show the enthusiastic side of you. State the job title that you are applying for and how you learned about the vacancy. State the most recent and major scholarly qualifications that you have that match the job requirements. It can be a bachelor's degree, masters' degree, certificate, diploma, etc.

What you should know on how to become a firefighter in South Africa

Paragraphs at the center

In this section, you will write in detail the qualifications that you have, starting with the educational qualification that you mentioned in the opening paragraph. Write about your work experience and the skills that you got from those jobs. Persuade the manager to hire you by letting him or her know the achievements you made in those jobs and your values.

Ending paragraph

The manager needs some acknowledge from you. Request for an interview courteously and provide him or her with your email and cellphone number in this part.

Closing complements and signature

Seeking for a job can make anyone emotional. Do you know that you sound affectionate when you write words like cheers, yours truly, and warm regards? "Yours sincerely" or "Regards" with your name at the bottom is the most appropriate way to go about it. If you are using your handwriting, do not forget your signature.

The best free offer to purchase template

READ ALSO: How to apply for parliament vacancies

Job application letter sample

Here is a sample for an online job application:

(Applicant's name)

(Applicant's phone number)

(Applicant's email address)

(Date of application)

Dear Hiring Manager (or Name),

REF: APPLICATION FOR A (JOB TITTLE) VACANCY

Regarding the advertised (job title) that I learned about from (where or how), I seek to work for your esteemed organization. I am an (undergraduate/diploma graduate/masters graduate, etc.) from the (school) with a (credits).

My scholarly background, leadership experience at (organization), and working for (company) have empowered me with in-depth knowledge and proficient skills as a (job title). I am confident that my (state your skills) will enable me to bring impressive contributions to your company.

I am interested in working for (company) because it offers (services the company offers its customers) that have critically brought a positive change in society. I also believe that (company) will enable me to gain more skills and experience to build my career and make an impact on society.

Free South African CV templates and tips on how to write them

Here are my attached resume and qualifications documents that will give you more information about me. Thank you for going through my resume. I will appreciate it if we can meet for an interview. You can contact me through (phone number and email).

(Your name)

READ ALSO: 30 common interview questions and answers

Please click here for more cover letter examples South Africa. Did you know that a cover letter template makes it easier to write this document? A template is a simple cover letter sample for job application in word format that you can edit on your computer after downloading it. Some are for sale but at an affordable rate.

What are the precautions for writing a CV cover letter?

• Send the document as a PDF or .doc because, unlike the word document, the orderliness in the PDF or .doc cannot be altered by the system of the organization.
• Make it readable by using Arial, Calibri, and Verdana fonts of size ten to twelve. Add spaces between the sections and use single-spacing to make the document look neat.
• Use 250-350 words for the entire document but fix in it all the vital information.

Guidelines on how to write a CV in South Africa

Have confidence when writing your cover letter for CV South Africa. Check the grammar and punctuation mistakes by proofreading it using Grammarly or any other app that you know. Best of luck!

READ ALSO: Step-by-step guide on how to write a CV in South Africa

Source: Briefly News

Peris Walubengo (Lifestyle writer) Peris Walubengo is a content creator with 5 years of experience writing articles, researching, editing, and proofreading. She has a Bachelor of Commerce & IT from the University of Nairobi and joined Briefly.co.za in November 2019. The writer completed a Google News Initiate Course. She covers bios, marketing & finance, tech, fashion & beauty, recipes, movies & gaming reviews, culture & travel. You can email her at [email protected].

How to write a cover letter for a job application in South Africa (With Samples)

• Post author: Shephard Dube
• Post last modified: 2023-01-14

In South Africa, writing a cover letter for a job application is an important part of the application process. A cover letter enables you to introduce yourself to the employer and explain why you are the best candidate for the position. It also allows you to highlight your relevant skills and experience to the position.

In South Africa, there are a few key steps to writing a successful cover letter:

• Begin with a powerful opening: Begin your cover letter with a statement that catches the reader’s attention and entices them to continue reading. This could be a powerful quote or a personal anecdote.
• Explain why you are the best candidate for the job: Explain in the next paragraph or two why you are the best candidate for the job. This is your opportunity to highlight your relevant skills and experience. Use specific examples to back up your points.
• Make the letter specific to the job: Make sure to tailor your cover letter to each job application. Study the company and the specific role for which you are applying, and include specific details about how your skills and experience match the job requirements.
• Finish with a powerful statement: Finish your cover letter with a statement that summarizes your qualifications and expresses your excitement for the position. Thank the employer for taking the time to review your application and express your anticipation about the opportunity to interview for the position.

A cover letter example for a job application

Dear [Employer],

I am writing to apply for the [Position] at [Company]. As a result of [Previous Job or Experience], I have developed strong [Skill] skills and a strong interest in [Industry].

In my previous position at [Previous Company], I was in charge of [Task] and successfully performed [Achievement]. This experience has prepared me for the responsibilities of the [Position] at [Company], and I am confident in my ability to contribute positively to the team.

I am excited about the opportunity to work for [Company] and believe that my skills and experience qualify me for this position. Thank you for taking the time to consider my application. I am eager to learn more about this position and how I can contribute to the success of [Company].

Regards, [Your Name]

Internship cover letter example

I am writing to express my interest in the [Position] internship opportunity at [Company]. As a [Your Major] student at [Your University], I am eager to put my skills and knowledge to use in the real world and gain valuable hands-on experience.

I gained experience in [Skill/Experience] during my time at university. I have also completed [Related Coursework] coursework, which has prepared me for this opportunity. I am confident that my strong communication and problem-solving skills, combined with my passion for [Industry], will make me an excellent candidate for this internship.

I am looking forward to learning from and contributing to the team at [Company]. I believe that this internship will not only allow me to expand my skills and knowledge but will also allow me to make a significant contribution to the company.

Thank you for taking the time to consider my application. I eagerly await the opportunity to discuss how I can assist your team at [Company] to succeed.

Cover letter example for job application with no experience

Mr. [Employer],

I am writing to express my interest in the [Position] position at [Company]. As a recent [Your Major] graduate of [Your University], I am eager to start my career and contribute my skills and zeal to your team.

While I do not have specific experience in this field, I believe that I have gained transferable skills through my education and previous work experiences that qualify me for this position. I am a quick learner who can quickly adapt to new environments and tasks. In addition, through my coursework and various team projects, I have developed my communication and problem-solving abilities.

I am confident that my enthusiasm for [Industry] and eagerness to learn and grow will make me a valuable member of your team at [Company]. I am excited about the prospect of learning from and contributing to such a reputable organization, and I believe that this role will allow me to develop my skills and knowledge while also making a significant contribution to the company.

I hope this article has given you some pointers on how to write a cover letter for a job application in South Africa. Remember to tailor your cover letter to each job you apply for, emphasizing your relevant skills and experience. Good luck with your job search!

Shephard Dube

• South Africa
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How to Write a Cover Letter for Your CV 2023

You've literally found the job of your dreams and from the requirements, you're so qualified for the job role. You are certain that once you're interviewed, the recruiter will not take a second guess at whether to hire you or not. However, the call for applications states clearly that you're to send a cover letter for your CV. Now you're stuck wondering what a cover letter could be. 

Well, if you're anyway in this shoe, we want you to know that we've got you. You're at the right place, and at the right time. In the next 5-10 minutes, you're going to understand exactly what a cover letter is, its purpose, and how you can come up with a badass cover letter on your own. Stick around and let's begin! 

What is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a document added to a job application that gives the recruiter concise information about who you are, what you do, how good you are at it and your motivation for wanting to join the organization. It is simply a summary of your CV but with a bit of personal marketing.  Check out this article to know the difference between a cover letter and a resume . 

What is the purpose of a Cover Letter?

You’ve probably asked yourself at some point, “If I’m going to send my CV for a job opening, why do I need a Cover Letter anyway?” Well, here are a few reasons the recruiter still asks for a Cover Letter alongside your CV while submitting an application.

It gives an interviewer more personal information about you. It also helps the interviewer connect with you on a personal basis.

It makes you stand out from other applicants.

It gives you room to share your knowledge about the company and what value you can bring on board which is unique to the company.

It helps you compel the recruiter to go through your CV and also invite you for an interview. 

It serves as a supplement to your CV, giving creative information about you to the recruiter. 

How to Write a Cover Letter

Now that you know how important a Cover Letter is, let’s get to it. Below are simple but necessary steps to get the best Cover Letter there is. 

Start with your contact details as a header

Just like your CV, your Cover Letter should begin with your contact details and information about you. Your name, contact address and numbers, email address and also your job title should all be included in your header. 

Address the recruiter  

The next thing you would want to do while getting your Cover Letter ready is to address the reader who will most likely be the recruiter.  Keep in mind that it is totally okay to try and get the name of the hiring manager for the firm and address the letter directly to him/her. LinkedIn is one good way to find out the name of the hiring manager, or you can look at the opening to know if the hiring manager attached his/her name to it. Once you get the name, your address will look like this. 

Dear Mr Kungawo, 

XYZ Services, 

Pretoria, South Africa.  

However, if you are not able to get the name of the Hiring Manager, you can have an address that says:

To the Hiring Manager,

XYZ Services,

Pretoria, South Africa. 

Never make the mistake of having “To whom it may concern” on your cover letter. It isn’t a professional thing to do. 

In addition, some cover letters are written as the body of the mail when submitting an application. In such a situation, it may not be suitable to use a formal letter addressing. A formal letter approach is most suitable when the cover letter is being submitted as a document. 

Introduce yourself properly   

When you’re done with the address, you then introduce yourself properly. Just this introduction will determine if the hiring manager will invite you for an interview or not, so it must be engaging. This is where you talk about why you are a good fit for the company. For example:

“As a Project Manager with over 5 years of experience, I was excited to see your opening for the role of a Project Manager. I have worked on and managed several projects ranging from campaigns to launch projects with strict budgets. I am positive that with my skills I can help XYZ services manage and execute projects seamlessly.” 

Explain why you are a good fit 

The next thing you should do would be to let the recruiter know why you are a good fit for the company. What are the transferable skills that you have? What have you been able to accomplish in the past? What ideas do you have that you can implement in the new role? These are the things the recruiter will be looking for in your cover letter. Here’s an example:

“In my current position, I have been directly involved with the digital marketing strategies of the brand. I have created campaigns and launched projects which have helped sell the brand product to clients. Currently, through the marketing campaigns I spearheaded, we have converted 35% of our audience to customers in the past 3 months. We have also had an increased lead generation by 50% in the past 4 months across all marketing platforms.”  

Share why you are motivated or enthusiastic about the role

At this point, you will have to let the hiring manager know you want this job, and just any job. This part of your cover letter will dwell on the experience you believe you will have while working with them. After all, every employer wants you to enjoy working with them, because that way, you’ll stay longer. Here’s a motivation that works:

“Having studied the ABC company and having a clear understanding of the organizational goals, visions and culture, I am certain that I would truly enjoy my stay as a part of the organization. I am also certain that the work environment will enable me to give my very best to the company as we achieve our corporate goals.”

Make a promise and keep your closing salutation formal

End the letter with a promise of sharing your ideas and thoughts to meet the company’s needs once you are invited for an interview. This way, the hiring manager begins to look forward to a productive conversation with you during an interview. Also, keep your closing salutation formal at the end of the letter. The following words can suffice;

“Sincerely,”

“Best Regards,”

“Respectfully Yours,” 

Sample of a Well-Written Cover Letter

What not to do with your Cover Letter

While you’re working on having the best cover letter to send in alongside your application, there are some things you should keep in mind. 

Don’t use the same cover letter for multiple job openings. It’s always better to tailor your cover letter to the applications as they come. 

Don’t make your cover letter too long. Let your CV be more elaborate, but a good cover letter is short.

Avoid typos and errors in your cover letter. Too many errors communicate that you struggle with written communication and that may not sit well with the hiring manager.

Don’t just repeat everything on your CV in the cover letter. Be creative about it. Your cover letter is only a supplement to your CV, not a replacement. 

Staff Writer

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How to write a great Cover Letter (including a Template)

Oct 04, 2018

Making a first impression is so important when applying for a job. You won’t be there in person (yet) to let your personality shine through so your cover letter needs to that for you. A knock-out cover letter is essential for getting noticed (for all the right reasons of course). Here are our top tips how.

Show the initiative

Learn more about the company before you apply. This will help you:

• Write a custom cover letter that is genuine in content and intent.
• Set yourself apart from other generic applications.
• Show the recruiter or company that you are proactive.
• Prepare for the interview if you are asked to attend one.

Get right to it

Raise the criteria listed in the job advert.

• Explain how your skills matched what is required from the position.
• Justify why your work experience is a match and how they may contribute to the overall success of the company.
• Now is also the time to mention any achievements or accolades that are relevant to the job you are applying for.

Go the extra mile

Never ever start your cover letter with the phrase “To Whom It May Concern” or “Pleas find attached my CV”.

• Personalise your cover letter with the recruiter/recipient’s name.
• This will show that you are proactive and add a personal touch.
• If every sentence starts with “I” you need to redirect your focus back to the company’s needs.

Be an individual

Don’t send a generic (copy and paste) cover letter.

• A customised message is what will  set your CV apart from other job seekers applying for the same job.
• Write a unique cover letter for every job application.
• Make sure you address the points raised in the job ad/job spec and how you can assist in your capacity as a valid candidate.
• Most of all, show them the value you can add as a successful candidate.
• Don’t be afraid to use humour when it’s applicable – but keep it professional (this works well if you know a company has a very relaxed office culture).
• Refrain from using sad or negative narratives as a means to invoke sympathy.

Short & sweet

Make sure your cover letter is short and to the point:

• Aim for no more than 250-350 words.
• Keep it factually-driven, packed with powerful words.
• Use bullet points wherever possible. Stay on-topic and to specifics.
• Keep the tone upbeat bit not too enthusiastic.

No room for error

Make sure your message is 100% error-free. One spelling error is going to cast a storm cloud on your chances of being invited to an interview. If you’re not that great at proof-reading, get a friend or family member to proof-read it for you. You get one chance so make sure it counts.

Keep it balanced

Try not to oversell yourself but,

• Focus on the position you are applying for and how YOU can help the company.
• Explain why you are a good fit taking into account your skills and experience
• Be clear how you can add value to the company.

Use our cover letter example below as a guide to write your own unique introduction for every job you apply for.

Dear [Name]

I am very interested in the advertised position for a [job title] you are currently advertising. My qualifications and professional work skills would make me an ideal candidate for consideration.

Together with my [add personal/skills here] I would make a valuable contribution to the team at [company name here] and I am eager to speak about this position in more detail should I be contacted for an interview.

I look forward to hearing from you and discuss how my combination of [add skills here] and [add work experience] would help contribute real measurable value to [company name here].

Thank you in advance for your consideration.

Kind regards,

[Your name]

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