Module 1: My Europass documents

3.3. Create Cover Letter

As far as cover letters are concerned, there are plenty of ideas on how to write a compelling one. Some focus more on oneself presentation (matching what’s written on the CV), others believe it should focus more on why you are applying for that position and that company, i. e. it should demonstrate your motivation and energy.

Both ideas are correct, actually a good cover letter should include answers to both questions.

• Who are you? What are you experience and skills?
• Why do you want to apply for this job and company? What makes you confident you can contribute to the business mission?

Both points need to be addressed in the main body of the cover letter. As with the CV, the cover letter must be preceded by a thorough reading of the job posting (and requirements) as well as some research on the company, their history and current needs as well as their strengths on the market.    

The conclusion of the cover letter should also be a compelling sentence summing up the above two points.

Again, put yourself in the shoes of the recruiter and read the cover letter as if you were reading a cover letter of a person you’ve never met. Try and think if you would be convinced to give a chance to the candidate, if that’s the case then you can proceed and ask a friend or a relative to give you their opinion. Always try to have another person’s opinion. It will help you understand better the parts which need improvement.

By clicking on “create cover letter” you will access the above menu showing you two option, “import” or “create new”. If this is you first time you should click on “create new cover letter”.

Once you click on it, after inserting the language of the cover letter, date format and your personal information, you will be able to fill in all 4 fields of the cover letter document by just clicking on “edit”.

In the final section, “closing”, you will be also able to upload you digital signature and select the salutation which suits your cover letter best.