Share Your Cover Letter
Guys,
Just a thought:
What if you had someone look at your documents before you send them away? Or help someone else with theirs?
In the spirit of landing a hand how about you copy and paste your cover letter and have other users critique it with the aim of making sure that you cover all the basics of career building.
So, here are the rules:
- delete any personal information from your cover letter and paste it in the comments field below.
- If you feel there is something needs improvement in someone’s cover letter PLEASE highlight it politely.
Over to you.
250 Comments
I am an LLB graduate applying for the position of Candidate Attorney at your law firm. I am looking for an opportunity to do my clerkship within a span on two years so that I can achieve my goal of becoming a fully qualified attorney.
During my well-rounded education, I acquired valuable theoretical and some profound practical knowledge of the law in an extensive number of courses. My interests lie mainly cooperate law and public law. My strong interpersonal, communication and research skills were fully developed when I worked at the Malawi Law Commission in 2010. I also have proven experience in organizing and execution of projects as I was an executive member of the International students’ executive council and administrator in the University of Pretoria International day students Committee.
I consider myself to be hard working and dedicated in all of my endeavors. I am well capable of working individually and with others and I am always open to new challenges and look forward to working in an environment where I can learn from my seniors and acquire other valuable skills that will prepare me for a career as an attorney or legal advisor. I am self-motivated with high energy levels and a willingness to co-operate and complete any prescribed task within relevant time. I look forward to working in a small firm because it guarantees the opportunity to learn and gain wider experience in legal related matters. In a small firm one is more aware of their co-workers and therefore creating better teamwork.
I believe that the abovementioned skills and attributes, in addition to my law degree, have developed my potential to become an excellent attorney and a valuable contributor to your firm. With the knowledge, experience and direct transferable skills that I have accumulated I can be a valuable asset to any law firm as a Candidate Attorney.
It is too long. My 1st thoughts at seeing it were, who would want to read that after going through maybe a 100 applicant’s letters in just one day – and I’d pass it on to someone else. Consider rephrasing it and going only for the key points that are required. Remember you’ll also be including you CV, so basically what they want is your character traits (distinguishing characteristics or qualities).
I’ve been told that Puff&Pass has a lot of helpful tips… It’s my first time on the site and I am blown away. Please help me with my cover letter; here it goes..
My name is Patience Lebogang Molefe. I graduated in 2011, at Varsity College and have obtained a National Diploma in Service Management from CATHSSETA. I am very passionate about the Hotel & Hospitality industry and believe that this is more than a career for me, it is my calling.
I am open-minded and know that my ability to learn fast will truly make it easy for me to adapt into your company’s environment. I am confident that regardless of the minimum experience I have in this industry, I will be a great asset to the company, when given a chance to prove myself.
Please find attached more details about my personal information and some experiences I have obtained over the past few years.
I’m writing to apply for the …. position
advertised in indeed.
The opportunity presented in this listing is very interesting and I
believe that my education and strong skills in communication,
good analytical skills , attention to detail and ability to make decision under pressure will make me a very competitive candidate for this
position. The key strength that I possess for success in this position
include:
With a Certificate in Procurement and Supply Chain Management a
National Certificate in Business Administration and a Certificate in
Freight Management and Administration for Importers and Exporters (to
finish 2 modules for a full certificate), I have 4 years experience as a sales assistant.
Attached is my resume for your perusal.
I can be reached anytime via email at…… or my cell
phone …….
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to speaking
with you about this employment opportunity.
I will be having Interview on the 23 of this month , what must I expect in terms of Questioning? The Do’s and Dont’s , please help a brother! I’m SOORY to ask this instead of sharing Cover Letter ,
Thank You
OK! This is what I can advice you (what has worked for me):
• Know as much as you can about the company you are hoping to work for. This you can do by going to the internet, newspapers, or asking people who might have the knowledge you need.
• Dress appropriately for the position you’ll be interviewed for. You don’t have to go and buy a new wardrobe, make what you have work- look neat and presentable
• Know the venue (very important), and be there 15 to 30 minutes before the interview. You need time to relax, breathe, and go over any info you might need to.
• Know yourself. When they ask you to tell them about yourself, they don’t want to hear about your mom and dad, living arrangements and such. They want to know about you, your educational background, your character and qualities. Strengths and weaknesses. Be careful when you speak about your weaknesses, leave them knowing that even though you have them, you are able to use them as strengths.
• Before the panel, you don’t sit until you are offered a seat.
• A firm handshake is a sign of confidence
• Eye contact is very important. Please don’t talk looking down- that’s a sign dishonesty and untrustworthiness. I know in our culture it’s a sign of respect, but do not do it.
• Do not fidget with your hands
• Ask when you do not understand a question, it is OK to ask for clarity. Don’t constantly say “pardon me” use words like “may you please repeat the question” or “I am sorry,I do not understand your question”.
• Sit up straight, just be comfortable, smile and be yourself.
All the best, I don’t doubt you’ll get it- just go in there believing in yourself.
Thanks for this… It’s very nice.
It’s a pleasure. And thank you for this platform, because many of us get opportunities, but because we do not know what is expected of us or what to do- we loose out on them. So thank you for helping us.
Thank you Lula, I find this very useful!
APPLICATION FOR EXPERIENTIAL TRAINING
I am currently doing National Diploma in the faculty of Electro- Mechanical Engineering at the Vaal University of Technology and completing fourth semester (S4) subjects. The desired intention is to join the exciting world through graduate development program/Experiential training (P1 & P2) and grow within a dynamic global company with vast resources. I have mastered the principles of Mechanical engineering enough to perform responsibilities that can improve the operations the company.
I am more concerned with increasing productivity through the management of people, methods of business organization, and performing typical activities such as the analysis, designing, planning, implementation and maintenance of integrated systems that would take the products to reach high quality standards, improve effectiveness, minimize hazards and costs, and maximize profits
In the light of the strong effort I am putting through all my studies & eagerness I hope my application would be highly considered and my presence within your company.
Yours truly
*Name and Surname*
Dear Sir/Madam
I am a young, vibrant, analytical and
highly motivated individual. I
possess the confidence to enable
myself to deal with any challenges I’m
faced with. I encompass keen
attention to detail. I think you will find my
combination of experience,
education, natural people skills and
aspirations as
an asset to your operation. My work experiences have enabled
me to harness my time management,
communication, interpersonal and
organizational skills. I work
extremely well
under pressure. I am able to adapt easily to new environments. I am a
quick
learner and believe that my
personality and skills will enable me
to add
great value to any organization. I consider myself a strong candidate
for this position. I feel strongly
that the fore mentioned qualities will
benefit you as the employer and I
will endeavor to establish a mutually
beneficial relationship. I am hoping that this application
receives your most favorable
consideration.
Yours Sincerely,
Application for a job.
Mr Ronnie Steenkamp the (H.O.D) of Anglo platinum had inform me that your department is looking for technically minded young people to be trained as artisan on 3rd of August 2012.
I had completed my matric with flying colours ,maths 90%; Sciecne 85% ; english 70% ; and other subjets with 70%.
I had also completed N6 in mechenical engineering .
state all th subjects you completed.
my cv together with my certified copies are attached.
Please read my cv,next week i will telephone your secritary to arrange for an interviev.
Yours sincerely
yuor signature
name and surname (tittle)
RE:[post you applying for]
To whom it may concern.
I hereby apply for the position that was listed in the newspaper or job website[name of website or newspaper], I believe that my expertise, and qualifications in [whatever course you studied] I completed at [name of college or varsity] will make me a valuable asset to your organization and I would appreciate your careful consideration of my credentials as presented in the copy of my attached CV.
I have the drive to succeed, passion for knowledge and knowledge generated.
Ability to transfer knowledge and to empower or enable others.
Attention to details on high level of accuracy, good communication and interpersonal skills.
I am organized, diligent, have problem solving skills and ability to work independently and within a team.
I am well-groomed and well-spoken and professional at all times
As the CV indicates, here are the reasons why I believe I am the candidate you are searching for and how I will add value to your company to achieve its goals or Mission and Visions.
I am really looking forward to the possibility of joining your company as a permanent employee I can be reached on my number [cellphone number] or my email address which is [Email address]
Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Name [Number]
CV attached.
P.O.Box 2012
Durban
4000
19 August 2012
HR Director
Dignity For All Ltd
Private BagX2012
Rossmore
2092
Dear Dear Sir/Madam,
Application for the Vacant Post(Administrative Assistant)
I was excited to read about the Administrative Assistant job opening at XYZ company. I have several years of experience in a variety of fields including insurance and finance.
In addition to my extensive office experience, I have strong communication, customer service, and administrative skills. My broad background makes me an excellent candidate for this position.
Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you to arrange an interview.
Sincerely,
*Name and Surname*
(Signature)
Miss MM Thomson
I am highly motivated person with strong commitment and I have good communication skill. I have in many accassions been complimented on my flexibility, patient and willingness to help whenever called upon to do so.
I strive to challenge myself and learn continuosly, have also proven my ability to cope under pressure.I am confident in saying if you may consider my application positively you.will have peace of mind knowing that you have appointed a dedicated individual who has integrity and professional ability to perform an optimum.
Yours faithfully
Mr/mrs initials surname
Contact.
I am self-motivated person,who works with less or no supervision,am commited and hard-working team player who endures under pressure. I am an enthusiastic, ambitious candidate who believes in achieving goals and completing assigned work in time.
I will take this opportunity as a learning curve that will expose me to different situations some which are challenging but which will nurture me in terms of my career achievement. Above all, I believe in professionalism, I am driven to work under good ethical conditions,hence I do not believe in short-cuts or informal ways to achieving goals. It will be my immense pleasure to be part of the team,hoping that I will take this opportunity to show my skills and work diligently for the betterment of this organisation.
Yours Sincerely
Name & Surname (Title)
I would like to thank you for this opportunity which I would take full advantage of to show my skills and work hard no matter the situation as I am also willing to learn and thrive through all challenges given.
I a young , vibrant, trust worthy and versatile in terms of language speaking nd interpersonal skills , I am very dedicated to everything I do and I ensure that I do it to the best of my ability. I work well and neatly at all times even when under pressure whether I’m working in a team or individually. I’ve got no working experience thus far for I’ve just recently matriculated but I’m sure I would be a good asset to your company as I have a young,focused and motivated mind bursting with fresh ideas that I would love to be given an opportunity to share.
If you have found my application appealing i will immediately be available for the job interview and job placement.
I thank u once again for taking your time to read my app letter your consideration will be highly appreciated.
Yours faithfully
(Name and surname)
My name is …….. Im very passionate about the ITC industry as the growing business in South Africa. Am a ambitious person dedicated, team player, hard working have great potential to learn and b the best I can be.
I have experience as IT support technician involved in IT repairs, configure laptops, desktop, scanners, printers, lebel printers, desktop support. software and hardware installation, active directory, creating user accounts, patching cables and network point, migration from lotus note to outlook, ghost imaging, help desk.
Career objective is to finish my IT diploma and also continue with system support in order to be system administrator engineer.
I am lee and have recently completed my Bachelor of Earth Sciences in Environmental science. I am a self-disciplined reliable person who is also eager to Learn, Ambitious, responsible, enthusiastic, cope well under pressure, also can work as an individual, and in groups and have good leadership skills
Given an opportunity I can be able to prove what I am capable of. I would like to develop a career that will benefit Me, the Company, and Community. I am always eager to face any new challenges and always appreciate any form of constructive criticism this employment programme is what I need to help develop my career as a mine geologist.
I am good in communication and adapting to changes , innovative creative and an intellectual. I would like to be given the opportunity to grow and learn more and become a strong competent employee.
I would be glad to provide any information that you may require and to avail myself to any form of an interview. I have attached my CV which has my contact details, my academic record,certificate,I’d and CV
I hope you do take my application into consideration.
Kind regards
Lee
Dear Sir/Madam
APPLICATION FOR ………. INTERNSHIP:Ref No: DCS/2012/13/017
I am currently a student within University of Technology, doing my part time B-tech studies. I am a 22years old young male hard working, passionate and a good communicator.
In addition to the experience and knowledge I have acquired in this field, my skills include among others, communication; administration; leadership; planning; organizing; problem solving; time management; self control; research; management; computer skills (Internet; Microsoft Outlook; MS Word 2007; MS Excel 2007; PowerPoint 2007 and XP).
Apart from the extensive experience, knowledge and skills I have acquired in this field, I am in possession of a National Diploma in……. and am currently studying my B-TECH in University of Technology.
Attached, please find a copy of my curriculum vitae which sets out more details of my experience, skills, knowledge and qualifications.
Thanking you in advance and hoping to hearing from you soon.
Yours faithfully,
*Name and Surname*
Tel.
Cell. No.
E-mail:
Morning all,so far so good!
Well a cover letter is ment to attract the person reading it to actually look forward to go through your cv,so it wouldn’t hurt by hinting on your academic achievements and work experience!!
Keep it short nd simple and to the point!do not write a novel
Also be sure to know the difference between a cover letter and a application letter
Good luck!!!
Lesiba,
Since we are helping each another could you please, in a few lines, highlight the differences between a cover letter and an application letter?
Thanks
Site Editor
thanks Lesiba,can you please let us know what the difference is between a cover letter and a application letter .
Thanx for showing how to write a cover letter and application I always have a problem of these two when it comes to apllying now I know,this is much appriciation.
I am an unemployed graduate wishing to get exposure in the work environment and acquiring experiential training. I hold a structured Bachelor of Social Science in Management and Communication Studies degree offered by the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal. I also completed an Honours Degree in Industrial, Organisational and Labour Studies which I completed in 2011 also offered by the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal. The University of Kwa-Zulu Natal exposed me into the theoretical part of tuition and I have assessed myself and saw it appropriate that I engage with your organisation as to assist me with obtaining suitable employment in order to develop myself and be part of the workforce in the economy.
I’m trustworthy, self motivated and eager to learn. I’m able to take responsibility, troubleshoot problems and proactively implement solutions. I see myself as driven to high achievement, quality and service orientation furthermore I am adaptable to changing priorities and workloads. As an individual I’m able to work under pressure and overtime if required. I pride myself with strong planning, process management and written skills. I also have an eye for detail and exceptional organisational skills like excellent communication (both written and verbal) and interpersonal skills.
I possess the ability to build and maintain healthy relationships. I pride myself to be able to work my way through a highly structured development process since I’m self-motivated, and take responsibility for my own development. I’m also a proactive team player, able to multi-task and maintain a professional image at all times. I can confidently influence and persuade at all levels since I follow an organised and systematic approach to work through my ability to think strategically and I’m able to make decisions and meet deadlines whilst working in a fast-paced, pressurised environment.
I possess resilience and emotional maturity. I also have a good working knowledge of MS Word, MS Powerpoint and Excel. My strong point is that I hold a certificate from call centre where I was trained in dealing with people telephonically which improved my interpersonal relations and Client Relations. I’m courteous, respectful and professional in all communication through displaying integrity, to meet deadlines and follow procedure. I’m committed to quality flexibility.
P.S. Attached is a copy of my CV. Please see it.
I hope that my request rests favourable in your honour.
Yours faithfully
(Name and surname)
APPLICATION FOR A JOB:
I would like to apply for a position that has been advertised. I am a young ambitious man who is not afraid to dream big and possess a desire to adapt to your organization so as to learn and gain new perspective, then apply it to a benefiting situation. I am a deadline and challenge driven who is determined and strong minded on solving problems. I have the ability to work independently and as a part of team. I am self motivated, diligent and committed to aiming at high standards of competence and professionalism in my work. I believe that I can be an asset in your organization and contribute meaningfully and effectively to the services that I will be delivering.
I am a hard working individual who is passionate in everything that I do, which helps me to produce good results. You can rely on me to tackle whatever I am given with enthusiasm and focus, to arrive early and to leave late, to be accurate, reliable and up to date. I will be available to be interviewed in a time convenient to you.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours Faithfully
MR/Mrs (Initial) (Surname)
Contact Number
Rather use APPLICATION FOR EMPLOYMENT THAN APPLICATION FOR A JOB, its more professional
I wish to thank you for the invitation to apply for the vacant position of ………. as advertised on DATE AND WHERE U SAW THE ADVERT KE NANDI
I am a vibrant self-starter with unyielding experience in YOUR SPECIALTY EG TRAVEL & TOURISM, from various backgrounds. Through my experience I have learned to demonstrate a great understanding of client needs, which enables me to deliver superior service to all stakeholders.
I have, through formal and practical training, seasoned my communication skill both written and spoken.
I have a knack for detail and completeness; I will bring innovation and enthusiasm to your department/company. I have passion for people and a good understanding of South African human dynamics with an ability to adjust to new environments.
While I may lack some experience in the field, I possess all the qualities and necessary skills and an added willingness to learn. I have the capability to learn new systems speedily; and I strongly believe that I can make a great contribution and add value to your department/company.
Kindly consider my application; I look forward hearing from you.
Yours sincerely,
Good day,
I am a self motivated individual with passion, aptitude and seek an entry level position to enable me to apply and grow my potential. I am a person who can make a valuable contribution to the cultural life of your Organization.
As part of a planned career path, I seek a working environment that can provide me among others with exposure and grounding. I am a team player, a fast learner and work well under pressure. I dislike it when I am unchallenged by my work. I thrive in a challenging environment. I would like to be part of a well- established organization. I feel that my strengths and knowledge will be an asset to any company. It would be appreciated if my application would be considered.
I am a hard working, trustworthy, dedicated, loyal and sociable person. I believe in teamwork and doing my best to help others. I am able to work independently, possess clarity of thought, and gave the ability to keep focused and productive even under pressure.
If I am successful in the application, I will offer my best in terms of service, loyalty and dedication. I trust that you will give my application your favorable consideration I am available immediately for both interview and job placement ..
Yours truly
*Name and Surname* (Title)