4. THE COVERING LETTER A CV or job application form should always be accompanied by a short covering letter. Its purpose is to draw the prospective employer’s attention to the key points in your CV and to highlight your suitability for the job. FUNCTIONS: 1. Opening: Say where you got the vacancy/job information from (newspaper, magazine, web page) and when. In case the job ad refers to more than one post, specify clearly which one you are applying for. 2. Summarize your qualifications (degrees, masters, specialization courses) and, above all, your career. Be sure to include only relevant information. 3. Explain clearly, but briefly, what your personal assets are. 4. Explain clearly, but briefly, what you think you can offer to the company and why you are interested in working with them. 5. Show availability for a job interview. 6. Close your letter adding a formal ending.
USEFUL EXPRESSIONS FOR EACH OF THE FUNCTIONS: 1. In reply to the advertisement appearing in (…) on (…) In reply to the advertisement appearing that appeared in (…) on (…) I would like to apply for the post / job / vacancy of… 2. As you will see from the enclosed CV, I have successfully completed (…) and worked as (…) Reading the enclosed CV, you will see that I have successfully completed (…) and worked as (…) 3. I believe I am (name what you consider are your personal qualities) I can assure you I am (name what you consider are your personal qualities) 4. I therefore feel I (state what you can offer to the firm – your experience, innovative ideas, interest in the sector, commitment), and I would like very much to work in your firm because… I therefore feel I (state what you can offer to the firm – your experience, innovative ideas, interest in the sector, commitment), and I am really interested in working with you because… 5. I am available for an interview whenever it suits you I am available for an interview at any time suitable for you I am available for an interview at any time you want 6. I look forward to hearing from you in the near future.
The letter is divided in four paragraphs. In which paragraph (A-D) does the writer: - Describe his practical work experience? - Say when he could be interviewed? - Include details of experience or relevant skills? - Say how he heard about the job and state his interest in it? - State his enthusiasm and interest? - Show that he knows something about the organization he wants to work for?