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  • Writing a cover letter

    What is a cover letter? 

    A cover letter is an essential part of any job application and should always accompany your CV. Your cover letter needs to stand out from other cover letters. A well written cover letter will make the employer want to know more about you. It will make the right impression and encourage the employer to not only look at your CV but to read it with interest.

    What to include?

    All good cover letters should include:

    • Let them know what position you are applying for
    • Why you are interested in the job. 
    • Why you are interested in the firm. 
    • Why the employer should be interested in you. Highlight your key skills which match the job requirements.
    • Ask for an interview and thank the reader for considering your application.

    Cover letter tips

    • Presentation should be attractive, professional and easy to read. 
    • Should be no longer than 1 page
    • Vary the sentence structure and avoid overusing “I”. 
    • Don’t duplicate sections of your CV. Highlight the main points and draw attention to the key information in your CV that matches you to the vacancy/company. 
    • Show your interest in, and enthusiasm for, the position, the organisation and/or the industry. 
    • Proof read very carefully. Then get someone else to check it before making your final copy. 

    Cover Letter Workshop



    See the Cover Letter Information Sheet attached. 


    Book an appointment

    You can book an appointment with the Careers Advisor to discuss your Cover Letter by visiting a Student Helpdesk, calling 0800 141 121 or emailing lss@wandw.ac.nz


    Useful Links

    See the cover letters section of the Careers NZ website.