How to write a cover letter

1. Introduction of what a cover letter is and what it contains

You can use various methods to introduce Cover Letters

Option 1: Intro Discussion Questions

• Why do you think some employers ask for a cover letter in addition to a CV?

• If two candidates have similar CVs, what difference can a cover letter make?

• What do you think employers want to learn from a cover letter that they can’t see in a CV?

• Do you think a generic cover letter works, or does each one need to be tailored to the job? Why?

• Which is harder to write — a CV or a cover letter? Why?

  
  

Option 2: Walk through Cover Letter Structure

• Greeting (Dear [Name] / Hiring Manager)

• Opening paragraph (job you’re applying for + short hook)

• Middle paragraph(s) (why you want the job + how your skills/experience fit)

• Closing (thank you + availability for interview)

2. Demonstration

• How to create a CV using:

  • Word (with templates)

  • Google Docs (with résumé templates)

  • Canva (for design-oriented options)

• Walk through replacing template text with personal information.

3. Individual Self-Reflection Exercise

Self-Reflection Exercise 1: Job Ad Matching

• Find a job ad that interests you.

• Highlight 3 skills or requirements in the ad.

• For each, write one sentence about how your own experience, skill, or quality matches.

  
  

Self-Reflection Exercise 2: The 4-Part Draft

• Step 1: Write down how you usually greet someone formally (practice respect and tone).

• Step 2: Reflect: “Why do I want this job or type of job?” Write it as your intro.

• Step 3: Think: “Which 2–3 skills or experiences do I feel most proud of?” Write these as the middle section.

• Step 4: Reflect: “What is a professional way I like to end a message?” Use this as your closing.

4. Exercise

Participants start creating their own cover letter in class using their self-reflection answers.

• The trainer gives support and feedback while circulating.

• Option:

  • In-class: learners work directly in Word/Docs/Canva.

  • Homework: learners draft or finalize their cover letter and submit for feedback or exchange peer feedback in the next session.