Cover letter

Hide

Definition of cover letter

A letter that contains information about the thing it is sent with: Please send a cover letter with your application form.

Here you have an example and some important rules: 

10 High Street
Newtown
N99 9AZ
28th February

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing to you to express interest in the voluntary work placement at your animal sanctuary which I saw advertised on your website.

I am eighteen years old and in my final year at secondary school, due to sit my A levels next summer. I am planning on taking a degree in veterinary science at university and have received two conditional offers. As you will see from my CV, I have always shown an interest in working with animals and have relevant experience from voluntary work which I carried out at a local dogs' home.

In this position I had sole responsibility for taking care of some dogs' daily needs, such as feeding, cleaning and exercise. In addition to this, I regularly spend time on my uncle's farm throughout the year and usually help him take care of the animals. This hands-on experience has reinforced my decision to seek a career working with animals. Both the dogs' home and my uncle would be willing to provide references.

I am hard-working, punctual and willing to help out with any kind of job at the sanctuary. My decision to undertake a degree in veterinary science confirms my interest in and commitment to the field. I am certain that experience working at your animal sanctuary will provide an invaluable insight into working with animals and a unique opportunity to acquire a range of skills and expertise.

I hope I have shown that I am an ideal candidate for this position and please find attached my CV.

I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours faithfully,

Emily Jones

Hide

Top Tips for writing

1. Begin and end the letter appropriately.

Beginning: Dear Sir or Madam with no name - Closing: Yours faithfully
Beginning: Dear Mr / Mrs / Ms + surname - Closing: Yours sincerely

2. Give a clear reason for writing.

I am writing with regard to … / to enquire about … / to apply for
to express interest in… /

3. Use linking words to join similar ideas into paragraphs.

4. Include a summary comment near the end of your letter.

I hope you will find this information useful.
I would be very grateful for your assistance in this matter.

5. Close your letter with a set phrase.

I look forward to hearing from you.