What makes a good cover letter in 2021?
A cover letter enables an employer to pre-screen candidates for a role and helps them to decide whether you are the preferred candidates they would like to short list for an interview.
It is not uncommon for those working in Human Resources departments to read a cover letter prior to reading your CV.
Your cover letter is a key part of your application submission. This formal document which is usually sent together with your CV aims to provide supporting information of your skills and experience when applying for all kind of UN system roles and grades.
The overall function of a cover letter is to match your skills, competencies and core experience and achievements with the role!
Our guidance is to always include a cover letter even when a job posting doesn’t state one is required.
A good cover letter :
o focuses the reader on to your noteworthy experiences from your career or studies and further explain how those skills/experience gained match to the role.
o builds your story to demonstrate your own unique personality, which for varying UN system roles is often just as important as your qualifications.
o focuses the reader on your excitement , ambition, motivation and how these relate to the role you are applying for.
Don’t forget this is an opportunity for the reader to see your excellent writing skills so let your skills shine, showcase your writing capability and most importantly focus on the details by proofreading your work.
Keep it concise and short- less is more- HR received on average 800 applications per UN system vacancy.
TIP: Write a Fresh Cover Letter for each Job!
Looking for ways to kickstart your international career? We share the best cover letter tips and structure for 2021! Learn how to craft a cover letter that stands out with UCCs 20 page Illustrated guide of cover letter tips
The United Career Coalition aims to share knowledge, insights, tips & advice from those that have applied, interviewed and secured United Nations system roles!
Want to learn more on how to spot relevant skills and competencies in a UN system vacancy or the best method to convey your skills in a cover letter? Get in touch with one of our UN insiders or download UCC’s 45min cover letter webinar with tips and advice from UN insiders!
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