A covering letter should be sent with every CV, whether responding to an advertised position, or a speculative application.

A covering letter is a more personal document than your CV and its purpose is to persuade an employer to read your CV. Don't underestimate its importance, a good covering letter, accompanied with a great CV, will give you an excellent chance of securing an interview.

Below are some tips that will help you write an impressive covering letter.

• DO create your covering letter on a computer using a clear, businesslike font such as Arial or Times New Roman. Only handwrite it if the employer specifically asks you to and, if you do, make sure your writing is legible.
• DO address your covering letter to a named individual. This will often be found on a job advertisement, but if it isn't ring and ask the personnel department of the company. A letter that is addressed to a specific person is automatically more persuasive than one beginning: "Dear Sir/Madam".
• DO explain fully why you want the job. It is your challenge to convince the employer you are the right candidate. Stress how your skills and experience match the job description, using the terms of a job advertisement if you wish, and back up any statements you make with proof.
• DO research the company. In these days of Internet technology it is easy and it will impress an employer if you show you know something about the company that isn't mentioned in the job advertisement. Don't simply quote their promotional literature back at them, you must be prepared to expand on statements at interview.
• DO use positive language. Confirm that you have enclosed your CV, detail when you would be available for interview to start work, and always close with a positive statement such as "I look forward to hearing from you" or "Do not hesitate to contact me should you require any further information". Make it sound like you expect to secure an interview.
• DON'T make your letter too long. Restrict it to one side of A4, shorter if possible. Include enough information to express exactly why you want the job and how you match the job requirements, but no more.
• DON'T simply repeat information contained within your CV. The aim is to make the employer read your CV, so include any facts that may be relevant but are not included in your CV. If you do repeat anything in your CV, write it in a different way so it doesn't look like you are quoting.
• DON'T make mistakes. Check your letter through carefully or, ask someone else to check it, and amend incorrect spelling, punctuation and grammar. Errors make you look unprofessional and careless.
• DON'T go into your private life and leisure pursuits in your covering letter. This is a work-related letter explaining why you are right for a particular job and a long list of hobbies and pastimes will create the wrong impression.
• DON'T make any salary demands unless specifically asked to do so. Remember you are trying to show the employer that you are a good potential employee. If asked to include salary requests try not to limit yourself by going too high or too low. Have an acceptable salary range in mind to discuss at interview should the topic arise.

Remember:

Quality: To make your covering letter look as impressive as possible, print it on quality white or cream A4 paper. Use the same type of paper for your covering letter as you use for your CV. Don't staple your CV to your covering letter. Either leave them unattached or use a paper clip. To avoid folding your letter you can use an A4-size window envelope (obviously making sure that the address is visible in the window.)

Follow up: If your application fails it may pay dividends to write a brief follow-up letter asking for some feedback as it will help you with future applications. The employer may have second thoughts and decide to offer you an interview, or at the very least you show your interest in the job and the company and your name will spring to mind if similar positions become available.