• Keep your cover letter concise and job specific. It should be modified to address the specific job you are applying for.
• The goal when writing the cover letter is you address your strengths and accomplishments in a paragraph or two.
• Relate your past work experience and training to the qualities the company is looking for.
• If you are fresh out of school and do not have a lot of experience to write about, relate your accomplishments, research, and/or class projects to the qualities the company is looking for.
• Make it clear in your cover letter that you understand what the company is about. This means doing a little research ahead of time so that you can better match your skills/experience with their needs and goals.
• Once again, keep your formatting consistent throughout the cover letter.
• Be sure to double and triple check your grammar and spelling. It is also a good idea to have someone proofread for you. The more eyes that see it and the more feedback you receive, the better it will be!

Structure for a covering letter

First Paragraph
* State the job you’re applying for.
* Where you found out about it (advert in The Guardian newspaper etc. - organisations like to know which of their advertising sources are being successful)
* When you're available to start work (and end if it's a placement)

Second Paragraph
* Why you're interested in that type of work
* Why the company attracts you (if it's a small company say you prefer to work for a small friendly organisation!)

Third Paragraph
* Summarise your strengths and how they might be an advantage to the organisation.
* Relate your skills to the job.

Last Paragraph
* Mention any dates that you won't be available for interview
* Thank the employer and say you look forward to hearing from them soon.