Your cover letter is important - it is an overview of your skills and how they apply to the position advertised. Don't be tempted to make your cover letter a rehash of your resume – take the time to make the documents complement each other to help you secure an interview. Your cover letter enables you to present yourself (your interests, your abilities and your suitability) in a coherent and organised way without interruption – so make the most of it.

If you are using the same resume for several applications, your cover letter allows you to tailor your application to each job. A basic structure for cover letters should always mention:

• Why you are contacting the employer
• Why you are a good fit for this role (address key phrases in the ad)
• Your relevant experience and
• A request for an interview/follow up call

Writing a cover letter in response to a job ad

Before you begin writing your application, read the job advertisement carefully for the employer's wish-list of desired characteristics for the position. Look for mention of skills, functions, contract requirements, personal attributes and desired experience and qualifications.

Highlight each of the above and work out how you fit the requirements. Review your experience and whether you have performed a similar function in previous jobs and can do what the advertisement seeks.

Now write your letter introducing yourself, outlining your skills, attributes, and experience in response to the requirements laid out in the advertisement. Your letter should reflect your personality and ensure you emphasise the qualities the advertiser is looking for – don’t try to be someone else: to thine own self be true.

Write a 'cold-call' cover letter

When your letter of application is not in response to a job ad, the employer will not be anticipating your correspondence so it is important to make your covering letter as clear and appealing as possible. An unsolicited application needs to gain the attention of the reader. Explain what you can offer the organisation and how they can benefit from hiring you. Make sure you address the letter to the correct contact name and tailor your application to the organisation. Make your application look as if you have done your homework about the company and are not just sending out large numbers of unqualified form letters.