Advice on writing a cover letter

[JohnV]

Should I write a short or a long cover letter?

I want to get as much information down as possible so I can convince them I've got the experience for the job but I'm told that potential employers often don't really spend much time reading the cover letter and are easily bored...

[simonwallace]

I would suggest keeping the letter as short as possible but making sure you get the key points down. It is a very important skill to be able to summaries.

For more details you might want to look at this page - http://www.whatwilltheyask.co.uk/Version%202/coverletters.htm

[LondonStu]

Definitely keep it down to about three paragraphs...the first stating why you want the job...the second saying why you will be good for the job and the third signing off.

[JohnV]

Thanks guys these seem like some good tips.

I used to send out a very standard cover letter that didn't really mention much about the job I was going for. It didn't seem to get me much success. I hope the new lot of cover letters and cvs that I send out will have more success.

[frank sidebottom]

Always try to use the exact words and some phrases from the advertised job description. That way, when employers are looking through, the particular things they're looking for will jump out at them. if they're reading loads(and they usually are) then it's best to try and make their job as easy as possible.

[saul_g]

Try this - an awesome guide for writing covering letters: http://www.thegatewayonline.com/resource.php?resource=26