Your cover letter is the first thing a recruiter will see, so it is essential that you introduce your CV/Resume in the best way possible. Although there's no such thing as the perfect letter, following a basic formula will help you on your way and make your cover letter a worthy build-up to your CV.

The four stages of writing
First paragraph
Explain why you are writing; make sure it entices them to read on. If you're replying to an advert, say where and when you saw the advert and if there is a reference number, quote it.

Second paragraph
Briefly explain your job and, if applicable, qualifications (professional and/or academic). Don't give too much away or they may not want to go on and read your CV. If you are replying to an advert, make sure the skills you specified are reflected in your CV

Third paragraph
Say why they should employ you and why you would be a good employee. Tell the company a little about themselves (e.g. "As the largest publishing company in the North West"), to demonstrate you know something about them.

Fourth paragraph
Lay down an action plan; say you would like the opportunity to meet them for an interview and you'll await their response, or that you will call in a few days to see if this is appropriate. You don't have to leave the ball in their court, although be wary of seeming to 'pester' - and if you do say you are going to call, then make sure you do.

Use of email
With the advent of email, 'snail mail' is not the only option for delivering your CV/Resume and cover letter. Generally, the same rules apply, but there are a three things to remember when you apply by email.

• Make sure your letter is written in a common font with standard formatting and punctuation. Once it is sent to another computer, the whole presentation of the document may change, so the content has to be especially good.
• If your cover letter is written within the email (as opposed to being attached as a Word document), make sure you apply the same formalities at this stage as you would in a hand-written letter, and perform a spell check before sending.
• Remember to attach your CV to the email!