If you have a question for our Career Coach, e-mail Helen at careers@ReConnectAfrica.com

Dear Helen

Can you give me some advice about writing a standard cover letter for my CV that I can use for all my applications?

Stephen M.

Dear Stephen

The first point I must make is that you should not think about having a ‘standard’ cover letter. You should tailor every application you make – whether it is your CV or cover letter – to address the job role and company you are targeting. It does take more work but it will create a much better impact on your potential employer.

Try to keep your cover letter concise and remember that even it you are sending it by e-mail, a letter is still a letter. Check that your layout is clear and that you include your address, the name and address of the company you are applying to and the date.

Your cover letter should highlight your suitability for the job and emphasise the key achievements you have set out in your CV. In terms of length, try to keep it to around three-quarters of a page and break it up into the following sections:

Demonstrate that you have done your research about the company by referring to specifics about the company or the job – another reason why a ‘standard’ cover letter is not enough!

Use short and simple sentences and make sure that what you say matches with your CV. Finally, read it through carefully and check for any spelling errors before sending it off. !

If you need some more help, you can always contact us for advice and support in producing a winning CV and cover letter!

All the best!

Voted Candace Business Woman of the Year 1997, Helen Dupigny is a Director and co-founder of Working Plus, (www.working-plus.com) a Careers Management and Diversity consultancy and creator of the award-winning ‘Six Steps Career and Personal Development Programme’. A Sierra Leonean based in London, Helen is also the author of ‘Vicissitude’, a guide to making life and career changes.