An important element of any successful job application is the quality of the CV and the accompanying cover letter.
Writing a cover letter is an area that some applicants really struggle with as they’re not sure exactly what they need to include or how it should be written.
However, it is really worthwhile spending time getting your cover letter up to a high standard, as this is the first impression the recruiter will have of you.
Here is the typical structure to follow in your cover letter when applying for automotive roles:
Start off with a seamless introduction
Start off on the right foot with a personal address to the recruiter i.e. ‘Hi {recruiter name}’.
Then start your cover letter off with a friendly greeting that will help you to build rapport – something like ‘Hope you’re well’ – to engage with them.
Next, go straight into what job it is that you’re applying for e.g. ‘I would like to apply for the role of Automotive Technician as advertised on {job site advertised on}. As recruiters are often dealing with numerous roles, this step shouldn’t be forgotten.
Explain your suitability for the job
Your cover letter doesn’t need to be very long. In just a couple of paragraphs you should be able to get enough information across to convince the recruiter that your CV is worth a read.
By reading the job advert really thoroughly, you’ll be able to pick out the most important areas that they’re looking for experience in and the top skills they desire.
Use those key areas to detail why you are most suitable for the role. For example, if they outline that they are looking for someone with experience in using diagnostic equipment, then refer to how many years you have experience in that area.
If the job specification is looking for someone with experience working on specific types of vehicles, then you should include any relevant experience with that specific vehicle type.
You should briefly summarise your industry skills, length of experience, relevant qualifications and your current position. If you are available immediately then it is often worth stating this as it could work in your favour.
The recruiter will want to know your motivation for applying for the role, so make sure that you explain what it is that attracts you to the job and why it suits your skills and experience.
The last part to include before your sign-off is the call-to-action i.e. ‘Please find my CV attached’, prompting them to open your CV.
Finish with a professional sign-off
The end of your cover letter should be polite and professional e.g. ‘Kind regards’. To make your email look even more professional, you can add an attractive looking signature that includes your full name, tel. number and email address.
It’s also worth noting that your cover letter should be within the body of your email, rather than attaching it as a separate document. If you include as an attachment, it just takes longer for the recruiter to access.
If you follow this structure in your cover letter and pair it with an impactful CV, then you should have a very good chance of being successful in your automotive role application.
