A cover letter for industry often has four sections – an introduction, the ‘sell’, motivations, and the close. It is important to tailor your document to the employer and you can do this through your research into the role and the organisation as well as the competencies you have to evidence. The STAR technique is useful for giving examples of how you meet the criteria the employer is looking for. Cover letters are often one page long, but you can always check with the employer before applying for a job. The example below focuses on a marketing professional with a postgraduate qualification.
Cover letter template
[Write your address in this area]
[Write the name of the person the letter is to along with the name of the organisation and address in this area]
[Write the date]
Subject line in relation to the position you are applying to
Dear XXXX
[In your first paragraph, introduce yourself and state why you are writing to the person. You might want to refer to your current situation, relevant qualifications and / experience.]
For example:
I am writing to you regarding the position stated above. I have recently completed a master’s in Digital Marketing and have two years’ experience in the higher education sector. I hope to demonstrate my suitability for this opportunity.
[In the next section of the cover letter, evidence how you meet the criteria the employer wants. For a one-page cover letter you can focus on the competencies most valued for the role e.g. skills, qualifications, experience. Always be mindful of what other documents or information you will need to provide in support of your application. If the employer requires a longer cover letter, you will be able to evidence more competencies in detail.]
For example:
During my postgraduate education, I developed my project management skills. I led a team of five in designing a new marketing strategy for a start-up. I organised regular meetings, identified team members’ strengths and ensured tasks were completed in a timely manner. As a result, the company incorporated many of our proposals and have generated more business due to their online presence.
At the University of East London, I worked in the marketing and events teams. I was responsible for managing social media channels and uploading content on the website. I demonstrated my ability to pay attention to detail by contributing to the planning of graduation ceremonies. My positive attitude and flexible approach were recognised by senior management and I was offered a part-time role during my studies.
The third section can demonstrate your motivation for the role and the employer. Revisit the job description and research the organisation. Your motivations must be personal to you. Examples can include aspects of the role you might find a positive challenge, the organisation’s vision, values, clientele, commitment to diversity and inclusion or corporate social responsibility.]
For example:
This role appeals to me because I feel it will allow me to implement the knowledge from my master’s and build on my previous experience. I am interested in your CSR vision as employees can volunteer in the UK and overseas. Throughout my higher education, I supported community groups in London, Nice and Libreville which enabled me to use my language skills.
I value the diversity within your organisation and how collaboration is encouraged. I am confident that I can contribute to your 2019-2022 strategy through my innovative and forward-thinking approach.
[Finally, thank the reader. If the job advert has requested additional information such as salary expectations, availability for interview, then ensure you include this. If you know the name of the person you are writing to e.g. Dear Ms Watson, then end your letter with ‘Yours sincerely’. If you do not know the name, then end with ‘Yours faithfully’.]
For example:
Thank you for your time and consideration. Please find attached a copy of my CV. I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours sincerely
[Your name]
[Optional – your email and contact number]
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