Study Skills for Nursing and Midwifery Students
 
  Buy this Book  
     
  Introduction  
     
  PDP  
  Exercise A  
  Exercise B  
     
  Securing the post you want  
  CV  
  Cover letter  
  Job description  
  Person specification  
  Application forms  
     
  Interviews  
  Practical preparation  
  Mental preparation  
  Exercise C  
  Post interview  
     
  Conclusion  
  Career Web links  
     

Securing the post you want

Cover Letter

Attaching a cover letter when submitting a CV, allows you a further opportunity to market yourself to the prospective employer. Whereas a CV states factual information about you, a cover letter allows you to be more personal. It also demonstrates that you are taking a professional approach to the application.

Hints

Make it sound interesting
Personalise the letter for each application for a post
Use plain English, check grammar and spelling
If you use “Dear Sir/Madam” finish with “Yours faithfully”
If you use “Dear AN Other” finish with “Yours sincerely”

 
Cover Letter Template
 

Your address and details
Employer Name
Employer Address
Employer job reference (if supplied)

Dear (Try to find the persons name)

I wish to apply for the post of ********(reproduce the given title accurately)

I have successfully completed my Nursing (Mental Health Branch) Diploma/Degree at AN Other University in.... and am now seeking full-time employment. I enclose a completed application form and/or CV for your attention. (dependant upon the employers requirements)

Include a paragraph on your training/skills/knowledge gained with examples specific to you. Employers want to know about your character and your capacity to develop in the post. Look carefully at the advert and job description to identify the particular skills required. Take special note of key words used in the person specification and job description.

It is a good idea to do some research before you apply for the post. See if the hospital trust has a Web site, phone and enquire about the post or even pay a visit and have a look around. Then include in this paragraph what attracted you to the post, the trust, the department. Remember this is a crucial paragraph so no negativity!

Include a paragraph with additional information if you think the information will be relevant but do not waffle.

I will be available for interview ..........and look forward to hearing from you.

Yours ......

Sign your name

PRINT YOUR NAME