A job for life is a thing of the past. People change jobs, or even careers, several times during their working lives. You have to keep on top of changes in the world of recruitment. You have to know how to make your job application stand out from the rest.

When advertising their jobs, most employers ask for a cover, or covering letter. A resume is useless without one as it doesn't tell the employer what position you are applying for and why you are a suitable candidate. Your cover letter is your one chance to show how you are perfect for the job.

Here are a list of things you should do and things you should avoid doing when writing your letter:

Do -

Address your letter to a named individual

Send an original letter to each employer

Keep it simple, don't try to impress the employer with long words

Keep it short, don't bore the employer with long sentences and paragraphs

Refer to the advertisement for the job, show how you are a perfect match to the skills needed

Use one sheet of paper, if possible

Give examples of how you have used your skills and abilities

Use positive action words and avoid negativity

Don't -

Send your resume without a cover letter

Waste time with unnecessary information

Give a history of your whole life

Rehash your resume

Expect the employer to take action, you need to end your letter with a call to action

Send your letter littered with spelling mistakes, incorrect grammar or coffee marks!

Try to impress employer with fancy fonts, jokes or brightly coloured paper

If you follow the above points you will be well on your way to getting your perfect job. Good luck!

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