A cover letter is a one-page document submitted alongside a resume when applying for a job. Its purpose is to share additional information about the applicant beyond what is contained in the resume. It allows the individual to introduce themselves, share their interests and values, highlight their experience and skills in more detail, explain why they are a good fit for the position and the company, and demonstrate their communication style. Job applications will state whether a cover letter is required or optional.
When writing a cover letter, it is important to emphasise how you learn new skills quickly. If you do not have recent work experience, you should share any volunteer work, community service, or training you have completed. The letter should be written clearly and concisely, kept to one page, and not include any information that is not related to the job or company. It should not repeat basic information from the resume. Instead, it should provide more detail about a specific skill or achievement, and tell a story about a time you made a positive impact at work. Good formatting and the same font as your resume should be used. Margins should be set to one inch on all sides, with single spacing and left-aligned text.
The content of the cover letter should include specific examples of projects that relate to the work and skills outlined in the job description. The closing section should restate your interests and qualifications, thank the reader, and ask for a meeting or phone call. The signature should include "Sincerely," followed by a signature and typed name. It is important to share that you understand what the company does and why you like them. This shows you have done your research and are familiar with the company culture. You should explain what you like about the company and why you want to work with them, talking about the values and goals you share with the company. When discussing your specific strengths and accomplishments, you should use the word "I" instead of "we". You should highlight what makes you unique, talking about the strengths, skills, and experiences that will help you succeed in your job. For example, you could mention how an immigrant or refugee background could be an asset to the position and company. If the job values cultural or multilingual skills, you should mention them. You should focus on what you are good at, writing about the skills and experiences you have, and not mention qualifications that you do not have.