A cover letter is just as important as your CV. It is an opportunity to personalise your resume and sell your skills. Include these important sections in your cover letter:

Heading and greeting
Include the date, your name and your relevant contact information. Address the letter to a specific name and/or title whenever possible.

Opening and introduction
Explain who you are and your reasons for writing, plus how you found the position.

Body
Here you have to sell yourself. Reveal why you are a perfect and unique match for the position. Explain why you have chosen the potential employer.

Assertive closing
Politely take initiative toward further action and next contact.

Be confident and positive.

• Target your letter to the relevant audience and industry.
• Be positive about your current employment situation and professional future.
• Highlight what you offer to the employer.
• Express your clear focused career targets.

Be polite and accurate.

• Use short sentences.
• Keep the letter to no longer than one page.
• Proofread your letter thoroughly.
• Thank the reader for his or her time.
• Sign your cover letter — (blue ink is sometimes used to show the letter is an original)