What mistakes do candidates often make on their cover letters?
- Using previously tailored cover letters from other job applications
- Replicating their CV in the cover letter
- Not motivating their application with precise information that is relevant to the role
- Writing very long cover letters that are not precise and tailored for the role
- Writing short a cover letters that are generic and giving little information in relation to the role
- Grammatical errors, lack of proof reading, layout, and proof reading.
- Using a CV template for the cover letter
What makes a good cover letter?
- Seek a call/discussion with the contact given to acquaint yourself with the role and any perspectives that is not obvious or given in the advert information
- A relevant heading
- Introduce yourself acknowledging you saw the advert/candidate pack/job description and give your elevator pitch/paragraph on why you are the right candidate for the role
- Do not give unnecessary and long narratives
- Provide a good summary of your experience, exposure, and qualifications in line with the givens for the position
- Acknowledge the opportunity presented for you to apply and invite further engagement on the role
5 tips on job interviews.
- Research on the organisation – purpose, vision, values, work, locations, and the organisational structure
- Be clear about your motivation for the role (how you align with the organisation, what you bring to the table and less about your need for a new role).
- Have clarity on how your previous experience links into the role. Remember that the panel has read your CV and not interested in you regurgitate that information again
- Respond to questions with practical examples of what you have done in the past, how it links into what is being asked and theoretical understanding of what is being asked
- Create a strong and balanced picture in your responses – strategic leadership, people leadership, stakeholder management, resourcefulness, and tenacity
- If it is online, please practice with someone before the call, ensure lighting, sound background and your positioning is great before the interview. Have a second device on standby in case one fails you