When you apply for a job online, do you include a CV cover letter? To many people a CV cover letter is a thing of the past. However, adding an effective online CV cover letter with your application can get you more interviews.
What is an online CV cover letter?
Your online CV cover is as relevant as ever. Just like a traditional hand written cover letter, an online CV cover letter introduces you to a prospective employer. It allows you to highlight your skills relevant to the job.
Why should you add an online CV cover letter with your application?
There can be no doubt that more and more companies now recruit online. For some large organisations that can mean thousands of applications for every job advertised.
CVs and resumes are now routinely scanned for keywords and keyphrases. So how can you make sure that your application is noticed, let alone looked at?
This is where a well written cover letter can get you ahead of the competition.
In just a few short paragraphs, an online CV cover letter can showcase your most important achievements, skills, qualities and experience.
What should your online CV cover letter include?
Make sure that you read the job advert and job description carefully. Once you have a clear idea of your suitability for the job, you can create your online CV cover letter.
Remember that your cover letter is your chance to get the reader to look at your CV. It should be concise and punchy, not a long heavy read. Ideally this can be done in 3 or 4 paragraphs:
Paragraph 1: A brief introduction. Include a sentence expressing your wish to work for that particular organisation and give a reason for this.
Paragraph 2: Highlight the most relevant achievements, skills, qualities and experience you possess for the position.
Paragraph 3: An invitation to contact you for an interview, telephone interview or informal chat.
Adapt your cover letter for each job. For example if you know the person or have spoken to them before, there is nothing wrong with a less formal approach.
Create your own online CV
Before you send out your cover letter, please remember how important it is to check for grammar and punctuation. Sometimes a word transposed or omitted can have a devastating effect. Just look at some of the worst CV mistakes for examples of bad grammar and punctuation.
If you have any questions, comments, need help or would like further information on how to write a CV or resume, use our comment form below and we will gladly try and get the advice and guidance that you need.
