Cover Letters & Speculative Applications

Essentials of a persuasive UK cover letter

• ¾–1 page, 3–5 short paragraphs. National Careers Service
• Address to a named person where possible (“Dear Ms Patel”).
• Clearly link 3–4 key requirements from the advert to evidence from the CV.
• Finish with a confident but polite close (“I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my application further.”).

Trusted guidance & templates

• National Careers Service – How to write a cover letter (with UK examples and structure). National Careers Service+1
• Prospects – Cover letter advice and examples (graduate-focused but useful structures). Prospects
• Reed – Cover letter tips (plain-English guidance). Reed

Speculative applications (no vacancy advertised)

• Target smaller employers, growing organisations or places where they’ve done temp/voluntary work.
• Letter structure:
• 1 Intro – who you are, how you found them, what roles you’re interested in.
• 2 Value – 2–3 bullet points matching their services/clients to your skills.
• 3 Ask – shadowing, short chat, or being considered for future vacancies.
• Attach a tailored CV and follow up in 7–10 days by email or phone.