A cover letter is an essential component of most job applications, accompanying your CV. It offers the hiring manager a detailed explanation of how your skills align with the role, what you can contribute to the team, and why you are interested in the position. For healthcare professionals, a cover letter provides an opportunity to showcase your clinical experience, patient care skills, and dedication to healthcare.
Your cover letter often makes the first impression on a hiring manager, making it a crucial part of your application. Employers frequently favour CVs accompanied by a cover letter and may require one as a mandatory part of the application process.
In this comprehensive guide to cover letters, we will cover:
- What is a cover letter
- How to write a cover letter
- Key traits and attributes your cover letter should include to stand out
- A cover letter template for your next application
What is a CV Cover Letter?
A cover letter is a one-page document addressed to the interviewer or hiring manager that includes your contact details, the role you are applying for, and additional details that expand on your CV. It should highlight your interest in the role and elaborate on the skills and experiences that make you the best fit for the position.
In your cover letter, align your qualifications, relevant skills, and previous experience with the job description to demonstrate that you have researched the role and are eager to join the team.
How to Write a Cover Letter
A compelling cover letter increases your chances of being invited for an interview. Below are ten key tips for writing an impactful cover letter:
- Address the Contact Mentioned in the Job Advert
Ensure your cover letter is addressed to the correct person, ideally the hiring manager, and clearly state the role you are applying for. If the hiring manager’s name is not mentioned, ask the recruiter or use ‘To whom it may concern’.
- Outline Your Current Job Situation and Motivation for Change
Explain why you are interested in the new role, whether for career progression, personal interests, or a change. If you have employment gaps, use the cover letter to highlight your interest and be upfront about the reasons for your employment gaps.
- Show You’ve Done Your Research
Demonstrate your understanding of the healthcare provider’s services, their patient care approach, and their reputation. Reference this knowledge in your cover letter to show your genuine interest in the role. Research the organisation’s website and prepare to discuss its mission and values.
- State Your Interest in the Organisation
Explain how the role aligns with your career goals and how you can grow within the organisation. Articulate why you want to work for the healthcare provider and include these reasons in your cover letter.
- Highlight Your Value as an Employee
Discuss your clinical accomplishments and additional skills that would benefit the organisation. Emphasize why you are the perfect candidate for the role.
- Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Job
Avoid using a generic cover letter for multiple roles. Tailor it to the specific job and align it with the job description and the organisation’s culture.
- Showcase Your Transferable Skills, Achievements, and Versatility
Include personal characteristics or personality traits that make you a better fit for the role. Highlight any relevant achievements from similar roles.
- Avoid Over-Matching the Job Description
Mention where your skills and experience match the job criteria, but do not repeat the job description verbatim in your cover letter.
- Keep It Neat, Brief, and Error-Free
Your cover letter should be typed, one page, and free of errors. Proofread carefully to avoid spelling mistakes, which can quickly disqualify your application.
- Express Interest in Further Dialogue
Conclude by inviting the hiring manager to contact you for an interview. Follow up if you don’t hear back, expressing your continued interest.
Traits to Showcase in a Winning Cover Letter
Your cover letter should reflect your unique qualities and why you are an ideal candidate. Here are some traits to highlight:
- Valuable: Showcase your strengths and how you can positively impact the organisation.
- Literate: Ensure your cover letter is error-free and well-written, demonstrating your attention to detail and communication skills.
- Unique Candidate: Display your unique combination of skills and experiences.
- Experienced: Highlight relevant experience and how it aligns with the job description.
- Enthusiastic: Show that you are excited about the role and eager to join the team.
Your Cover Letter Template
Here’s a template to help you get started:
Dear [Hiring Manager],
I am writing in response to your recent advertisement for the ‘Registered Nurse – RN123456’ on ABCompany.co.uk. Please find attached my CV for your consideration. My experience aligns well with the requirements of the role, including:
- Successful registered nurse with five years of experience in acute care settings.
- Experience in a leading NHS Trust.
- Thorough understanding of patient care protocols, having worked in various departments including A&E and Intensive Care.
- Experience with both adult and paediatric patient care.
In my current role as a registered nurse, I have:
- Established strong relationships with patients and families, providing compassionate and comprehensive care.
- Improved patient outcomes by implementing evidence-based practices and patient education programmes.
- Increased patient satisfaction scores by 20% year on year.
- Led a project to reduce hospital readmissions through enhanced discharge planning and follow-up care.
I believe my experience is well-aligned with the requirements of this role, and I am confident I will be a valuable asset to your organisation. If you have any questions, please contact me via the details provided on my CV. I am available for an interview at your convenience and look forward to hearing from you.
Kind Regards,
[Your Name]
What’s Next?
A cover letter can be a make-or-break factor in a job application. By following these tips and using the provided template, you can create a cover letter that brings your CV to life.
If you would like to speak to one of our specialist consultants for more information or to discuss any of our current job opportunities, please get in touch today.