The essential elements
- A strong opening that grabs attention and explains your interest in the job
- A short personal background relevant to the position
- A link between your skills and the employer's requirements
- Research that shows you know the company
- A closing with a call to action and your contact details
- Proofreading by someone else
Length and format
One A4 page at most, preferably shorter. Use the active voice and the first person.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Reusing an identical letter for several applications
- Generic language with no personal touch
- Unsupported claims with no examples
- Clichéd descriptions
- Focusing on what you gain instead of the value you offer
- Irrelevant personal details
- Spelling and grammar mistakes
If you have little experience
Emphasise your interest in the industry, personal strengths (reliability, curiosity), school projects, group work, voluntary roles and problem-solving ability rather than work history.
