Cover Letter

In your cover letter you explain why you are interested in the job and why you are suitable for it. Writing a cover letter doesn't have to be a big deal, as long as you keep the following in mind.

Content

How you construct your cover letter depends on the position you are applying for. Let's say you're applying for a job in sales, you'll want to convince the recruiter why you're the best one for the job in the first few sentences. You should always include the next two elements: a section in which you talk about your personal qualities and characteristics; and a section in which you indicate that you are of added value for the position. This could include a brief reference to your previous work experiences that have given you certain qualities. Make sure you don't repeat your CV.

Style

What style of text is used in the vacancy? Is it very formal or very personal? Adopt the style of the vacancy as much as possible. Avoid long sentences or difficult constructions and also pay attention to your spelling. Spelling mistakes make you look sloppy.

Length

Recruiters are people too and reading lots of cover letters can get boring at a certain point. A poll on Werf&.nl even showed that almost half of the recruiters do not read the cover letter at all. So don't make your cover letter too long. Keep it to a maximum of one A4, including the address lines, the date and the subject. In the end, half an A4 will be enough.

The End

How do you end a cover letter? Recruiters find it interesting if you ask a few questions about the position at the end of your letter. This shows that you are looking beyond the job description.

Last tip: don't spend too much time and stress on your cover letter. In the end it is all about the job interview. Luckily we have a few tips for that too! Check out our Interview Tips. 

Find more information on applying here.