A cover letter is your chance to make a strong first impression and explain why you are the right candidate for a role — something a CV alone cannot do. UK employers use it to gauge your motivation, communication and fit. This complete guide explains what a cover letter is, the standard structure, how to tailor it to a job, and the mistakes that get applications rejected.
What Is a Cover Letter?
A cover letter accompanies your CV and makes the case for why you suit a specific role. Where the CV lists what you have done, the letter connects your experience to the employer's needs and shows genuine motivation.
Standard Structure
✓ Opening — the role you are applying for and a strong hook.
✓ Why you — relevant skills and achievements with evidence.
✓ Why them — your interest in the employer.
✓ Closing — a confident call to action.
Tailor It to the Job
Match your letter to the job description and person specification. Pick the key requirements and give specific examples showing you meet them. A generic letter sent to many employers is easy to spot and quick to reject.
Show Evidence, Not Adjectives
Rather than calling yourself “hardworking”, give a concrete example that demonstrates it. Quantify achievements where you can. Evidence is far more persuasive than a list of positive adjectives.
Format and Length
Keep it to one page, professionally formatted, addressed to a named person where possible, and free of errors. A concise, well-targeted letter respects the reader's time and signals professionalism.
Common Mistakes and Tips
✓ Generic, untailored letters.
✓ Repeating the CV verbatim.
✓ Adjectives without evidence.
✓ Typos and wrong company names. Tip: tailor to the role, evidence your claims, and proofread carefully.
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Personal statement service, editing and proofreading and assignment help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cover letter?
A letter accompanying your CV that makes the case for why you suit a specific role.
What is the structure of a cover letter?
An opening stating the role, why you suit it, why you want the employer, and a closing call to action.
How long should a cover letter be?
One page.
How do I tailor a cover letter?
Match it to the job description and give examples meeting the key requirements.
Should a cover letter repeat my CV?
No — it should connect your experience to the role, not list it again.
How do I show my skills?
With concrete, quantified examples rather than adjectives.
Who should I address it to?
A named person where possible, found from the advert or company site.
What is the most common cover letter mistake?
Sending a generic, untailored letter.
Related Study Guides
How to Write a Statement of Purpose • How to Write a UCAS Personal Statement • How to Write an Essay • How to Proofread an Essay
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