The traditional cover letter has evolved, making intro email just as important (if not more-so).

Jonathan Hirst, Network Marketing MD comments, ‘When recruiting for this business I’m heavily swayed by a well written, grammatically correct and compelling email or letter - often making a decision on meeting them based solely on this, before even looking at the CV’.

So what should you make sure to include in this initial communication to get your foot in the door? Here’s our guide to help you write the best cover letter / intro email possible:

Research

It seems obvious, and it is, but before putting pen to paper do some homework on the company and role you’re applying for, as well as looking into their market. Showing you’ve researched the company and role demonstrates your interest as well as providing an overview of how you operate.

Addressing it

Get the email or letter straight to the person who’s going to make the decision. (There’s little excuse these days for not being able to work out the format of an email address.)

The opener

Short and sweet, explaining why you’re writing – e.g. I would like to be considered for the position of Marketing Director. You can also mention where you found the ad and / or if someone referred you. For a more generic application, think of something a little edgy that will immediately grab attention.

2nd paragraph

Why this is the role for you – briefly outline your qualifications for the role, professional and academic, ensuring the details are relevant to the skills listed in job description. Keep it short and punchy!

3rd paragraph

Why you are for them – try and draw on some of their values or culture and relate them to you and your background.

The close

Reiterate your interest in the role/company and suggest meeting to discuss the job in further detail. Sign off with the usual, Yours sincerely or Kind regards.

The length

As a general rule of thumb – you need to keep this down to a maximum of four short paragraphs so aim for half a page, or just over – no more or you’ve lost them. Don’t forget, all the information will be on your CV too.

Best of luck!