How to write a supporting

letter to send with your CV

 How to write a supporting letter to send with your CV

There are two types of supporting letters when sending your CV or application form to an
employer. These are covering and speculative letters.
Covering letter
A covering letter is designed to capture the reader’s attention and draw their eye to the most relevant aspects of your
experience which fits the job. When this happens they will then be more interested in your application form or CV.

Speculative letter
A speculative (spec) letter is used when you are writing to an employer to enquire if there are any available vacancies that may
have not been advertised as yet. The letter itself would be very similar to a covering letter, though the opening paragraph is
normally worded differently.

Your letter should include:

The reason for writing to the employer – On most occasions this is a response to a job advertisement and should state what
you are applying for and where you saw the position advertised.
What you are offering the employer – Point out any relevant skills or experience you have which fits the job vacancy itself. If the
advert requires customer service skills then indicate any job you have done that fits this requirement.
Why you would want to do this type of work and why you are the right person for the job – State your best qualities and why
they should pick you over other applicants. It may possibly be that you have been specially trained in this type of work and your
skills or experiences are currently up-to-date.
When you are available for an interview – Using a short phrase along the lines of ‘available for interview at short notice’ is a
useful idea.
Thank the reader for their time – Thank the reader for taking the time to read your application. You may also write something
like ‘I look forward to hearing from you’.
Complimentary close – Sign off your letter using the following format (this also depends upon how you started the letter):
Yours sincerely (if you know the recipient’s name)
Yours faithfully (if you do not know the recipient’s name)
Your signature should be handwritten above a typed signature.

Helpful tip: Don’t state you are ‘available at any time’ unless you are, as it won’t look good if you are invited to attend at
a certain time and you then say you can’t make it.
Helpful tip: Don’t be pushy by writing something like ‘I need to know if I’ve been invited to interview by Monday next
week.’ This is not good.

02
 How to write a supporting letter to send with your CV

Example - Covering letter

Mrs Anne Example
Address line 1,
Bolton,
Postcode
Mobile: 07123 456789
Date

Joe Bloggs Jeans

F.A.O: Joe Bloggs
Bolton Care Company
Address line 1,
Bolton,
Postcode

Dear Mr Bloggs,
I am writing to apply for the position of …………… as advertised in ………. on ………. 2011. I have enclosed my
CV for your consideration.
In my most recent role I worked as part of a team and demonstrated excellent standards of performance. I
have worked in a variety of roles where I have been driven to produce high quality work. In addition, I have
extensive experience of ……….. and am eager to return / move to a role which provides a variety of work and
is personally challenging.
In addition to this, I have an NVQ level 2 / training/ recognised qualification in……. and feel that my skills
would be beneficial to your organisation. If presented with the opportunity, I would like to show you how I
would make a significant contribution to your team.
May I take this opportunity to thank you for your time in this matter and I am available to attend an interview
upon request.
Yours sincerely
Anne Example

Helpful tip: Remember this is just an example. You should tailor your letter so it is relevant to the skills, the experience you
have and the job you are applying for.
Helpful tip: If you are applying by e-mail your cover letter can either be attached separately or form the body of the e-mail.

03
 How to write a supporting letter to send with your CV

Example - Speculative letter

Mrs Anne Example
Address line 1,
Bolton,
Postcode
Mobile: 07123 456789
Date

Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to enquire whether you have any vacancies within your organisation for ………... I have enclosed
a copy of my CV for your consideration.
In my most recent role I worked as part of a team and demonstrated excellent standards of performance. I
have worked in a variety of roles where I have been driven to produce high quality work. In addition, I have
extensive experience of ……….. and am eager to return / move to a role which provides a variety of work and
personal challenges.
In addition to this, I have an NVQ level 2 / training / recognised qualification in …….. and feel that my skills
would be beneficial to your organisation. If presented with the opportunity, I would like to show you how I
would make a significant contribution to your team.
May I take this opportunity to thank you for your time in this matter? Please feel free to contact me regarding
any further information you may require.
OR
I would be grateful if you would contact me if you have any vacancies in your company, or keep my
information on file in case of future openings. I would welcome hearing from you and am available at short
notice.
Yours faithfully
Anne Example

Helpful tip: Remember this is just an example. You should tailor your letter so it is relevant to the skills and experience
you have.

04