A CV (curriculum vitae) is different from a cover letter in that a cover letter is more concise and a CV is fairly detailed. While a CV includes detailed information about a person’s educational background and work experience, a cover letter is a more concise document expressing interest in the job being applied to.
Also known as a cover letter, an application letter is a summary of your strongest and most relevant skills and abilities that will be expanded in your resume or selection criteria. It introduces you to potential employers and highlights your suitability for the position you are applying for.
1. Ensure your letter is correctly addressed
Make sure that you address your hirer as either sir or madam. Do not be gender biased since you never know who will read your application. Imagine a salutation like ‘Dear Sir’ and the manager or the director for that organization is a madam! She will get upset and bin your applications no matter how qualified or experienced you are.
2. Your letter should vividly display that you qualify for that job qualifications
You can easily show that your requirements meet the position you are applying for by paraphrasing the job advertisement as it appeared in the advert channel. Avoid duplicating the vacancy advertisement and instead, go for vital requirements and show that you really meet all of them.
3. Ensure you are as specific and to the point
Avoid using words like, “I would like to apply…” instead say “Am applying for…” Show the person that you are really after that given job. Do not show your addressee that you are not sure about your application.
4. Focus on the organization you are applying to as well
Do not focus on yourself in the whole cover letter and forget about the organization you are applying to. Elaborate that you really meet the specified requirements as per that organization’s advertisement. Failure to do so may easily disqualify you since an organization will need to confirm that you actually go through their advert, understand why they are looking for personnel to fill that vacant post and are confident you will embrace teamwork when they employ you. Go an extra step and talk about the organization’s market, clients, vision and mission, goals, and brands so as to make it clear to the reader that you actually did research to be conversant with what they usually do and that you would be committed to that organization’s targets.
5. Show that you are passionate about that post
Most job applicants fail to clearly put that they really love and want the job that they are seeking. Show your reader that you look for that job; do not think that it is something obvious. Demonstrate it through your expression and put it in writing.
When you apply for any vacancy, ensure you point out why you really need that position you are applying for. All the best as you look for that job.
How do I write an application letter for employment?
Follow these steps to compose a compelling application letter:
- Research the company and job opening.
- Use a professional format.
- State the position you’re applying for.
- Explain why you’re the best fit for the job.
- Summarize your qualifications.
- Mention why you want the job.
- Include a professional closing.
How do I write a cover letter in Zimbabwe?
How to Write a Cover Letter for A Vacancy in Zimbabwe – 5 Steps
- Ensure your letter is correctly addressed.
- Your letter should vividly display that you qualify for that job qualifications.
- Ensure you are as specific and to the point.
- Focus on the organization you are applying to as well.
How do I write an application letter with no experience?
How to write a cover letter with no experience
- Carefully review the job posting and research the company’s website.
- List your contact information at the top of the document.
- Greet the reader and introduce yourself.
- Explain your skills and achievements relevant to the position.
- Remind them why you’re best for the position.