The Ultimate CV Needs a Great Introduction
An email or letter accompanying your CV will be the first point of contact you have in the job search process, so it needs to create an impact and be memorable. Remember, the purpose of a cover letter is to quickly convince the reader that you are the best person for the job! Your email/letter should concentrate on the position and the company.
Three key rules to remember:
- Remind the recruiter what they're looking for
- Tell them you are what they're looking for - how you fit the job description
- Demonstrate why you are the best choice
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So what’s the best way of putting together an effective and powerful introduction to support your CV?
- Whether applying online or by post, always write to a named contact where relevant.
- Use bullet points and short paragraphs to make it easy on the eye.
- Use a subject line to explain why you are writing – include job title and reference
- Tailor each covering letter/email for each job application
- Avoid including images in emails as these may prevent your email getting past company firewalls
- Keep your introduction short and concise.
- Refer to your CV to encourage the reader to find out more about what you can offer.
- If the job is in a different sector from those you worked in previously, draw links between the two.
- Don’t mention salary at this stage – that subject should be saved for an interview.
- Include any dates when you might be unavailable for interview.
Speculate to accumulate!
Don’t underestimate the power of a speculative letter/phone call to a company that you wish to work even if that are not actively recruiting. Ask for your CV to be held on file for any vacancies that may come up.