What is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a document sent alongside your CV when applying for jobs. It's a personal introduction and a professional pitch for why you're a suitable candidate for the position.

Unlike your CV, which lists your qualifications and experiences, your cover letter gives you a chance to express your personality and demonstrate your enthusiasm and specific interest in the role and the company.

The importance of a cover letter lies in its capacity to:

1. Personalise Your Application: It allows you to speak directly to the employer, showcasing your personality and enthusiasm for the job. It's your chance to connect your skills and experiences to the specific needs and culture of the company.
2. Highlight Key Qualifications: A cover letter lets you emphasise the parts of your background that are most relevant to the position. This tailored approach shows the employer why you’re a strong match for the job.
3. Explain More Complex Situations: If there are elements of your career path that need more context (like gaps in employment or a change in career direction), your cover letter is a good place to elaborate on these aspects.
4. Demonstrate Communication Skills: Effective written communication is a key skill in many jobs. Your cover letter is a sample of your writing and a demonstration of how clearly and persuasively you can make your case.
5. Set You Apart from Other Candidates: A well-written cover letter can make your application stand out by showing your knowledge about the company and how your unique skills make you the best fit for the role.

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Using This Template

Simply copy the cover letter text into a Word document (or email), filling in the [bracketed] sections with the appropriate information. Feel free to use this template as a starting point and personalise your letter to reflect the specific values and needs of the organisation you're interested in.

Bon chance!

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Cover Letter Template

Subject Line: Expression of Interest for [Role/Position] at [Company Name]

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am [a/an] [Profession/Trade] with a [Degree/Qualification] from [Institution]. I have [X] years' work experience in the [industry/sector].

Through my previous roles as [a/an] [Role/Position], I have gained experience with various [projects/skills/trades]. I have been involved with [projects/clients] in [location].

I envisage a role with [Company Name] to be both challenging and rewarding. I enjoy working on both individual and team projects, and I believe I have adequate skills and experience to offer [Company Name] in their [Team/Department/Division].

I have attached a copy of my CV for your consideration. If there are any job opportunities at [Company Name] in the future, I would be more than happy to arrange a meeting to discuss these with you.

Yours sincerely,

[First Name & Last Name]

Email: name@unwindhr.com

Mobile: +61 XXX XXX XXX