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job seeker tips

our consultants give their pick of the best covering letter tips

With hundreds of CVs and applications landing in our inboxes every day, we know a good covering letter when we see one. So, here are some of our top tips from our consultants for making yours stand out from the crowd.
 

Not got time for a video? Check out the main points below…

Do your research
“Research both the company and the individual you’re writing to and make reference to the work they’ve done explaining why you like it. This will show that you are dedicated and that you have a genuine interest in the company.” Jon Gloyne, Major Players Recruiter for PR & Communications Jobs

Short and sweet
“Try to keep it short and sweet, we don’t need your life story. Get to the point quickly, you could even bullet point it – this will make it much easier to digest for the reader and they’ll be more likely to take the time to read it.” Poppy Chenevix-Trench, Major Players Graduate Recruiter for Creative Jobs.

Tailor it
“There’s nothing more frustrating than getting a generic letter that has clearly been sent out in bulk to many other companies. So make sure you tailor it to the individual or organisation – no Dear Sir/Madams.”
Lucy Salmon Major Players Recruiter for Advertising Jobs.

Use your connections
“If you know someone who is connected in some way to the recipient it might be worth dropping their name in as a referral. You could also attach a reference; this is an instant positive reinforcement from someone impartial so it could really influence the reader.” Briony Panton, Major Players Recruiter for Creative Design & Digital Jobs.

Emphasise your education
“If you're a recent grad you’re not likely to have that much experience in a working environment so play to your strengths and emphasise your educational background. Give examples of when you’ve achieved high marks of excelled in projects.” Mark Begley Major Players Head of Recruitment for Creative Design & Digital Jobs.

Need some help with your CV too? Then click here for some top tips.

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