This is how to write a winning cover letter

Hi Mwikali,

My name is Aziz. I read your article in last week’s magazine. I want to know the best way to prepare a smart cover letter.

Thank you Aziz. In my recruiting career, I have seen many applicants use the covering letter as a ‘protective cover’ for their CV, missing a great opportunity to stand out and sell themselves. I will give you a few tips on how you can make your cover letter give you an edge over other candidates.

First state why you are sending the application. If it is in response to an advert, say so and make reference to the position you are applying for.

For instance, “I am writing in response to your recent advertisement calling for suitable candidates for the position of marketing executive.” If you are applying to be considered for unspecified vacancies, what is called speculative application, you need to state so. In this case, a statement such as, “I am writing to inquire about suitable opportunities in your marketing department.”

Secondly, demonstrate your experience. Recruiters look at this section very critically, so you must ensure it is in alignment to what the job advert specified. If a job calls for three years’ experience at a specific level, it is smart to combine previous experience in other roles to compliment this requirement. The recruiter is seeking to see how your experience will be of use in the new role.

If the new role is cross functional with dual accountability, highlighting your team skills and ability to get along well with others will be of interest to the recruiter. Likewise, if it calls for supervisory skills, you need to demonstrate your experience in coordinating colleagues, not necessarily subordinates, to get tasks done.

Lastly, highlight your qualifications and competencies and demonstrate how they meet the job specifications in addition to complimenting your experience.

A statement such as, “In addition to my academic training in marketing, I am a certified marketer by the Institute of Marketing following successful completion of post-graduate studies in this field.” Be specific in all these steps, giving information that will get the recruiter interested in your CV. Remember in any recruitment, while your CV captures a more detailed array of your skills and qualifications, your covering letter is the key that beckons the recruiter to read on. Make it count.