When submitting a CV to a prospective Swansea employer do you on all occasions include a covering letter too? What should it say? We at AllSwanseaJobs want to aid you in increasing your chances of getting that dream job so here is our hints and tips on covering letters.
Should you always have a covering letter?
Simple answer, YES!
A CV will tell a prospective Swansea employer of your career history, education etc but not the reason you are applying for their role with their business. It also gives your CV a personal touch which demonstrates to the organisation that you have made a particular effort to apply.
So what do you say to help you in getting that job and making sure you stand out from the crowd?
Firstly, bear in mind that you are presenting yourself to a professional person and your covering letter should reflect this:
- If the name of the receiver of the CVs is contained in the advert then make ensure you address it to them. For example, you may find ‘please apply to Mr Joe Plumber, Swansea branch’ at the bottom of the advert
- If it is not on the advertisement then telephone the organisation and ask for a name to address it to as it demonstrates an extra effort. If their name is still not available then address it ‘Dear Sir/Madam’
- Remember to finish with ‘Kind Regards’, ‘Yours Sincerely’ (if it’s to a named person) or ‘Yours Faithfully’ (if you do not know the name)
- We would recommend do this also when applying to one of Swansea recruitment agencies as they also will need to feel that you are suitable.
Secondly, bear in mind that you are putting your best foot forward in particular relation to the job for which you are applying. The things you might want to include are:
- Mention that you are attaching your CV for their reference for the Swansea opportunity advertised.
- Express interest in the Swansea position
- Explain briefly what you have been doing with career
- Explain the skills you think you have and how you could apply them to this position
- Finally, Indicate that you would be happy to discuss this further if they would be kind enough to invite you to interview.
Endeavour to be honest and passionate. Consider why you are applying, there must be reasons you consider that would be suitable for the job so explain that to them. A great covering letter could be more important than the CV itself especially if you don’t have exactly the needed skills or experience but think that you can make up for it in others ways.
Remember to alter your covering letter for each job to which you apply so that it remains relevant and strong. Note: organisations such as Swansea Borough Council / Glamorgan County Council jobs and Swansea University / Swansea College jobs may not require covering letters as they have extensive online forms.
