Often the covering letter is neglected with all efforts being made to optimise your CV, but in fact your covering letter is the first thing a potential employer will see and may even decide if your well-polished CV is even read. Therefore, it is advisable to invest plenty of time in your covering letter.

• The Covering letter should be specific to the company and position you are applying. A generic covering letter will not have the same impact

• Make sure you detail all the experience and exposure you have had, relating it to the specific requirements of the position you are applying

• It is also worth while focusing in on your personality and how this is equally as impressive as your experience and qualifications

• Explain why you want this position and if applicable why you do not want to stay where you are

• Research the company and include this throughout your letter, to show that you really are committed to this position

• Remember the basics; make sure you have the correct address and name of the person you are to write to. Also, include any specific details it asks you to such as reference numbers. Minor mistakes like these can often have a major impact on your application