There are several different types of cover letters you can use when applying for jobs, and it is important you learn how to write a cover letter successfully as these can be valuable tools to help you get a foot in the door and achieve the job of your dreams.

Inquiry Letters
You would use this type of letter if you have an idea of a particular company or field you would like to work in, which has no jobs currently being advertised. These are also called marketing letters, and basically you will use them to introduce yourself to a potential employer and inform them of why you think you would be an asset to their business. You may need to send out a few inquiry letters before you generate any interest, but they can be a good way of uncovering jobs and positions that may not have been widely advertised, or getting a head start on any recruitment campaigns that are coming up in the future.

CV Cover Letter
When you apply for a job that just asks for a copy of your CV, then it is important that you utilise the format of a cover letter in order to expand on your skills and experiences, and also draw the potential employers attention to any special attributes you can bring to the job. CV cover letters should be short and succinct, and written well to show off your formal writing and reporting skills. Make sure the letter has been thoroughly checked for grammar and spelling and type it up on a computer rather than write by hand, as this will show off your computer skills and will look more professional. Always sign the letter at the bottom and include your contact details.

Interview Thank You Letter
If you have been invited to an interview, then regardless of the outcome it is considered polite for you to send a thank you letter. You may be disappointed if another candidate was selected, but you can promote your professional image by thanking the interviewers for considering you for the position, and you could also use this opportunity to ask for some feedback from the interview, which can help you understand why you may not have been selected. Keep thank you letters short and simple, and address them to the head of the interview panel, or the person that contacted you to inform you of the outcome of the interviews.

Acceptance Letters
If you are successful at interview then you will need to reply in writing as soon as possible to confirm that you accept that job offer, and before you accept you will need to check which job you are being offered (sometimes if you are not successful in one position the interviewing board may offer you another similar one they feel you are suitable for) and also the wages, benefits, pensions and any moving expenses. Once you have cleared these issues up to your satisfaction you can then formally accept the position in writing and inform your new employer of when you can start.

Declination Letters
If you have been successful at interview or you are still waiting to hear the results and you no longer want to accept the position you applied for then you must let the recruitment team know as soon as possible so that they can consider other candidates. Thank them for giving you the opportunity to apply and also offer them a brief explanation as to why you are turning down the position, for example you may have already accepted another job.

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