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

  • bongo says:

    Dear Sir/Madam

    My name is ……….. and I am writing this letter as application for the position of ELECTRICAL SYSTEM DESIGN TECHNICIAN that was advertised on …….. I have a National Diploma: Electrical Engineering through Cape Peninsula University of Technology that I finished in 2011and graduated in April 2012.
    I am currently doing an internship at George municipality as An Engineering Technician intern as from 02 APRIL 2013. I am currently working at PLANNING and DESIGNING section whereby we responsible for the planning and designing of electrical networks within George area. I also did reticulation, cable calculation and selection. I was also partly involved in the energy efficiency project that we did with consultant engineers. With the qualifications that I possess and a strong desire to excel in this profession, I am seeking to align myself with an organization positioned for strong growth. It would really be an honor for me to have a chance to be an employee in your department because I believe it would give me the opportunity to grow in the profession.
    With my academic knowledge that I have gained at tertiary level over the years, I am now seeking a professional opportunity where my engineering and project skills can also grow and benefit your company. Based on my academic knowledge and my capabilities; I believe I have the qualifications and enthusiasm that you are looking for. I thrive on challenges and will spend the time and effort it takes to succeed.

    I am looking forward to hear from you soon to schedule an interview at your own convenience, during which I hope to learn more about your departments, plans, goals and how I can contribute to the success of the organization.
    Attached is my CV containing information regarding my qualification.
    You can contact me at all times at 0…………., or you can also E-mail me at ……………

    Sincerely,
    ……………

  • ANELA says:

    A cover letter should be short (half A4 page) and straight to the point

  • Mothusizane says:

    To whom it may concern
    RE: name of position
    Dear Sir/Madam
    Please find attached copy of my CV for the above mentioned vacancy at your company.
    I understand that when people do an application for a vacancy they only present their best on their CV. I am not going to do that, but going to give you an honest overlook on myself.
    I am very hardworking, trustworthy, loyal and neat. I am always eager to learn new things and I am always up for a challenge. I try to always have a positive view on each situation, because this reflects on your life and work environment, thus growing to a positive view to life itself. I always do all my work to the nearest and best of my ability and make sure that everything gets done on time.
    I know I can make success of this position as I believe in myself and know the importance of accuracy towards each aspect of the business and this also reflects on me as person.
    I thank you for the opportunity that you gave me to submit my application for the vacant and promise you that if my application is successful, I will be loyal to you and your business and give my best at all times, and please do not hesitate in contacting me for any further details.
    Thank you for taking the time to read my CV. Trusting you find this in order and in the meantime I eagerly await a reply from you
    Yours faithfully
    Initials and Surname

  • Bonginkosi says:

    Cover letter is a little explanation of u.
    Example:
    Dear Boswana
    I am writing to apply for electrician apprenticeship job. . . .

    Qualities
    self-motivated
    hard-work
    .
    .

    Qualifications
    .
    .
    Conclusion(what u can put in the table. When u want 2 start)

    yours sincerely
    sign
    full-name

    • Raxx Moriti says:

      Naah Bonginkosi I disagree with you there. Thats what we were always taught how a cover letter should look like.

      Have you read other people’s cover letters? They all have the same bOring structure, kinda like robots(Mine is like that as well hey)

      Mothusizane’s cover letter is different and really CAUGHT my attention. If I was a hiring manager, I would give them a shot

  • Angelo says:

    Dear Sir/Madam

    I am an ambitious, self-motivated and hard-working 23-year old male who graduated from CTI Randburg College.

    I hereby apply for the IT INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITY Programe that was listed through (source name) (Reference: ) I have a Higher National Diploma (BTECH) in information technology. I believe that my theoretical expertise, and qualifications in Information Technology will make me a valuable asset to your organization. I recently completed my Diploma in IT. I have good communication, computer skills and good with team work, as my academic record will show that I passed those subject with Good Marks.

    In my resume, you will see that I am studying towards a degree in B Sc Computer Systems with Heriot Watt University through CTI, Randburg campus which is scheduled for completion in December 2013.

    Key skills
    • Excellent computer skills
    • Willing to learn
    • Good team work skills
    • Solution orientated
    • Analytical thinking
    • Good communication skills

    In my getting employment at your company, I wish to gain hands-on experience and exposure in the ICT world and to get a chance to specialize further into career path.

    My course covers many areas within IT with my key interest being in networking.

    I am enthusiastic about working at your company and intend to present to you only the best I have to offer.

    For any further information needed or inquiries please contact me at:
    Cell Number: 073********
    Email: ********@hotmail.com

    Yours sincerely,

    Name and Surname

  • VUTIVI says:

    What do they mean when they say a cover letter should not consist a lot of personal information? Please help

    • Themba says:

      I personally think the reason why they say no to much personal information is because you would have sent your C.V with your the cover letter.

  • phuti says:

    after reading half of th cover letter here am stil cnt write myn. am more confused

    • Site Editor says:

      You must do it though… There is no other way.

      • Ndivhuho says:

        Dear Sir/Madam
        I am accustomed to a fast paced stressfully environment where dealings are priority and handling multiple tasks simultaneously is requirement, I enjoy a challenge and work hard to achieve my goals.

        I have completed my N6 Financial Management in 2011 at Central Johannesburg College I am looking for a creative challenging work career, I have good interpersonal and communication skills, and the ability to perform under pressure. I would like the opportunity to learn more about your operation with experience gained, I will be an asset to your organization.

        I hope my application receives your better attention and am looking forward to presenting myself before you.

        Respectfully yours

        Ndivhuho

  • Vig says:

    Please guys can you take a look at this letter and critisise or give advise because I always using the same letter!

    Dear Sir/Madam

    My name is……. and I am writing this letter as application for the position of (post) that was advertised on (source). I have a BTech: Financial Information Systems through the (Institution) that I finished in 2010 and graduated in April 2011.

    I am currently doing an internship at (company name) as a finance intern as from 4 March 2013. I am currently working on the Debt Management section and I’m also familiar with the some of the computer systems like Accpac ERP and BAS as we are using them at work and those I learned at tertiary like SAP Business one and Pastel Partner.
    Although I do not have the necessary experience required for this job but with the qualifications that I possess and a strong desire to excel in this profession, I am seeking to align myself with an orgarnisation positioned for strong growth. It would really be an honor for me to have a chance to be an employee in your department because searving customers is my strong point and would also give me the opportunity to grow in the this profession.

    With my academic knowledge that I have gained at tertiary level over the years, I am now seeking a professional opportunity where my management and customer-relations skills can also grow and benefit your company. With this goal in mind I have attached my resume outlining my qualifications.
    Here are some of my significant capabilities:
    • Problem-solving skills with the ability to handle rapidly changing schedules and shifting work priorities.
    • Interpersonal and communication skills with the flexibility and ability to remain focused and self possessed in fast- paced, demanding environments.
    • Superior ability to meet rigorous performance standards and demanding schedules.
    Based on my academic knowledge and my capabilities, I believe I have the qualifications and enthusiasm that you are looking for. I thrive on challenges and will spend the time and effort it takes to succeed. Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to meeting with you.

    Sincerely,
    Name and Surname

    • Vuyokazi says:

      That cover is brilliant, it is short and straight to the point. Do not worry about it, you have not included too much personal info; yet you have expressed your capabilities and strenghts without being too boastful.

  • Nondu says:

    I matriculated in 2007, and graduated at the University of Zululand in the year 2013 for a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Hydrology. I regard myself as a diligent worker who does up to the best of her ability at a given task, I am not discouraged through challenges. I have a passion for laboratory and research work . I am above average computer literate more especially in MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint, furthermore have acquired analytical skills, report writing skills, communication skills, team work, self-motivation during my University years. Irregardless of that I am open minded and willing to be taught and learn. I am an organized and systematic individual who believes strongly in morals and loyalty towards my employer and co-workers.

    I hope my application will be considered.

  • Awe says:

    RE: APPLICATION INSERVICE TRAINING
    Dear sir/madam
    I am interested in applying for the above mentioned position. I studied chemical engineering at Vaal university of Technology. I have completed semester 4. My CV is attached for your review.
    I am confident that my knowledge, experience in the work environment and ambition could make great contribution to your organization therefore I would appreciate the opportunity to learn further in your company. I am a hard-working person and admire working with other people.
    Thank you for your consideration. I am looking forward to hearing from you.
    Yours faithfully

  • Tlotlego says:

    Dear sir/madam

    I would like to request In-service training in order for me to complete my course successfully. I completed my theoritical training in december 2013. I completed semester 4 towards National Diploma in Electrical Engineering at Central Universitty of Technology , Free State.

    I am young ,ambition,dedicated,confident,honest,adaptable and hardworking person who is willing to learn and corporate to any given task. My focus and determination has allowed me to have the ability to work under pressure and i am able to maintain a friendly and respectful personality with a good working relationship with fellow staff members. I believe that my personality would make me a valuable asset to your organisation.

    Please find attached herewith a copy of my CV, full academic record ,matric results and a reference letter from the institution

    Yours FaithFully

  • WANDA says:

    Hi
    Can you please take a look at my cover letter and your opinion or suggestions will be much appreciated.

    Mr Wanda
    **Eugenia Court
    Eugenia Road
    Wychwood
    ****
    RE: https://www.puffandpass.co.za
    Dear Sir/Madam
    I am an ambitious, self-motivated and hard-working 24-year old male who graduated from the Vaal University of Technology.
    I hereby apply for the Human Resource Management internship position that was listed through https://www.puffandpass.co.za (Reference: Human Resource Management XHR 00002-3) I have a Diploma in Human Resource Management, my majors are Personnel and Business Management. I believe that my theoretical expertise, and qualifications in Human Resource Management will make me a valuable asset to your organization. I recently completed my Diploma in HRM. I have good communication, computer skills and good with team work, as my academic record will show that I passed those subject with distinctions. So as other skills which I obtained them through team assignments which were part of the course I completed HRM.
    Key skills
    • Excellent computer skills
    • Good team work skills
    • Solution orientated
    • Analytical thinking
    • Good communication skills
    I would love to give my profound gratitude for the time and effort used to inspect my credentials as presented in the copy of my attached CV. I hope my CV will cover all the necessary information needed.
    Sincerely,
    Wanda
    For any further information needed or inquiries
    074 *** ****
    ******@gmail.com

  • Tondani says:

    On your cover letter one should consider this, must be short to attract reader’s attention: 1st introduction about u, 2nd about why should be considered, 3rd mention that u did a research on the firm/company/organisation. Lastly thanking the reader in advance for reading your documents,,,,,,,this plays a huge role,,,,

  • Viwe says:

    Your Advertisement as stated above, was of particular interest to me because it offers a new challenge in the environment which I find extremely stimulating and enjoyable. I am a very hard working person and have the desire to learn and add value in a team based environment.

    My interest in business related matters generally led to my studying commerce at university. My ultimate career objective is to become a prominent and established figure in the business world. I would like to explore career opportunities both in commerce and public practice. I am looking for challenges, growth and development in professionalism.

    I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you to discuss my application and look forward to hearing from you soon. If you require any further information, please feel free to contact me on

  • Miemie says:

    All your cover letters are long, a cover letter should be short and straight forward. If it is that long the person short_listing might not have enough time to read your story.

  • Ndivhuho says:

    Dear Sir/Madam
    Hi, i am 22 years old and i have completeted my N6 certificate in Financial Management at Central Johannesburg College. I am looking for internship in the above mentioned course.
    I am accustomed to a fast paced stressful environment where dealings are priority and handling multiple tasks simultaneously is requirement, I enjoy a challenge and work hard to achieve my goals.
    I am looking for a creative challenging and work career, and I would like the opportunity to learn more about your operation with experience gained, I will be an asset to your organization.
    I hope my application receives your better attention and I am looking forward to presenting myself before you.
    Youth faithfully:
    Matika.

  • Livhhuwani says:

    APPLICATION FOR I.T INTERNSHIP/IN-SERVICE TRAINING 2013

    I write in hope of securing a place in any opening of the above stated discipline.
    I’m currently studying towards a National Diploma in Information Technology
    specializing in Software Development and I have accumulated extensive knowledge
    at the Cape Peninsula University of Cape Town (CPUT) which has enriched me with
    skills which I wish to use productively within your organization.

    As a proactive goal driven individual, I am able to align my literacy, the knowledge I
    have to acquire as a trainee, along with the characteristics of the current officials not
    only to integrate my software development skills base but to optimize the value of
    my contribution in pursuit of the University’s objectives and also to portray the values
    & aid to maintain the superior image of the University.

    I believe that this in-service program will offer me a unique opportunity to realize my
    career objectives & that if given a chance in the near future my contribution will be of
    unparalleled value. The training would support me financially in reaching my goals
    and will defiantly give me a chance for industry exposure as well as to demonstrate
    my strong analytical skills as well as program developmental skill so as to meet any
    objective set forth.

    I hope that I will be contacted about the admission as well the application status.

    Yours Faithfully

  • tendani says:

    Dear Sir/madam
    Good day
    I am an ambitious and hard-working female who graduated from the University of Pretoria.
    I have a Bcom law degree and my majors are in Mercantile and Private law as well as in Business and Marketing management. i am also currently registered for an LLB degree through Unisa.I am multilingual, proficient in at least four South African languages; English and Afrikaans included. I also have a code 8 driver’s license.
    While at university I worked part-time while I was studying and juggled both work and school. I believe the skills and experience I acquired through these jobs would make me an invaluable asset to your organisation. They taught me to be entrepreneurial, target-driven, hard-working, a team-player and to think on my feet.
    I am very driven and my ambition is to work in an organisation that will enhance those skills I already have as well as one where I can learn new ones. I enjoy learning and I am a fast learner. Modules I took also involved pastel, computer literacy and informatics. This is in addition to legal and general research modules. I have done administrative work and am competent with Microsoft word, outlook, pastel and excel.
    I dealt with people from clients to suppliers and due to this i have great interpersonal and marketing skills. I have moot court experience and have had a great deal of practice in the sales and marketing field. I am a good communicator and am very good at dealing with people. I am also able to manage time better in project –based work due to jobs that required that i be time-conscious and target driven to achieve maximum success.
    My dream is to really make an impact in the corporate and legal world, make a valuable contribution and be the best in my profession. I would really appreciate an opportunity to put my skills and experience to good use at an organisation where I could learn from the best in the business, one that could use those and also hone and enhance them.
    I look forward to the possibility of a personal interview wherein we could further discuss my credentials.
    Sincerely

  • Bongani says:

    I am a self-motivated 22-year old undergraduate from university Johannesburg, Bunting road studying Information Technology; I am interested in applying for the Job listed online.
    I have had a great deal of experience at the University of Johannesburg performing one software development projects under the field of IT. The project was more software orientated and it had 3 parts in it, Back-end (Application forms), Database and the front- end (Websites), the entire project had to do with faults experienced in different campuses concerning the labs and allowed individuals to report back to the technicians from their posts.

    This year I’m currently finishing off all the modules I have left which focus most on the business side of Information Technology, and most of all, they focus on how projects can be handle within the IT departments and which steps are supposed to be used for the project to be rendered a success.I am seeking to complement this indoor experience with this job opportunity in order to acquire the background necessary for a future career in IT.

    I believe that I would be an asset to your program, hence my primary objective is to gain experience and explore with the latest technologies and the aim is to contribute to the company by developing software products that will enhance user’s productivity and meet the requirement requested by the client.

    I will keep in contact whenever I am needed. I am looking forward to hear from you.

    Thank you for your consideration.
    Sincerely

  • siyanda says:

    Hello good people, I’m having trouble trying to find a cover letter of an applicant who’s applying for apprenticeship or practicals in the electrical engineering field.
    Please help!!!

    • Anonymous says:

      Dear Sir/Madam

      Application for Experiential Learning/Internship

      I am a 22 year old Female student who has completed the theoretical part(S4) of my N.DIP: ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING at the CENTRAL UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, FREE STATE.

      I am a very dedicated, hard working and ambitious person. I work well with teams and have good communication and leadership skills. I am requesting for an opportunity to express my abilities from your company since I aspire to become an Electrical Engineering Technician. I would like to enquire if your company has vacancies for someone in my position who requires training.

      I decided to approach your company because of its impact in the community. I believe that I can make a positive contribution to your company if I am given the opportunity to develop my skills.

      I enclosed my C.V and relevant documents, I will be glad if you consider my request. I can be contacted anytime for an interview on 072 *** **** or e-mail;***********@gmail.com.

      Kind Regards
      ** *******