Your CV Gets You Noticed, Your Cover Letter Gets You the Interview: A Nigerian Graduate's Guide

You’ve perfected your CV. It’s a clean, powerful document listing your skills, projects, and accomplishments. You attach it to an email, hit send, and wait. But often, there's one crucial step missing—a compelling cover letter.

Many graduates make the mistake of either skipping the cover letter or, even worse, writing one that simply repeats the information on their CV. This is a huge missed opportunity.

Think of it this way: Your CV is the "what"—it lists your qualifications. Your cover letter is the "why"—it tells a story, showcases your personality, and explains why you are the perfect fit for this specific company. A great cover letter is what turns a good application into an irresistible one. Here's how to write one that lands you the interview.

The Golden Rule: The Cover Letter is a Bridge, Not a Mirror

Your cover letter should not mirror your CV. It should build a bridge between the skills listed on your CV and the specific needs listed in the job description. It’s your chance to connect the dots for the hiring manager and show that you haven't just randomly applied, but have thoughtfully considered the role.

The Anatomy of a Perfect Cover Letter

Use a clean, professional, single-page format.

1. Your Contact Information & The Date
Place your name, phone number, and professional email address at the top, just like on your CV. Add the date below your information.

2. The Employer's Information
Whenever possible, find the name of the hiring manager. A quick LinkedIn search for "[Company Name] Hiring Manager" or "[Company Name] Head of HR" can often work.

• Hiring Manager's Name (if known)

• Their Title

• Company Name

• Company Address

3. The Salutation

• Best: "Dear Mr. Adebayo," or "Dear Ms. Eze,"

• Acceptable: "Dear Hiring Manager,"

• Avoid at all costs: "To Whom It May Concern," or "Dear Sir/Madam."

4. The Opening Paragraph (The Hook)
Start strong. State the exact role you are applying for and where you saw it advertised. Then, express your genuine enthusiasm and show you've done your research.

• Example: "I am writing to express my enthusiastic interest in the Graduate Trainee position at [Company Name], which I saw advertised on LinkedIn. Having followed your company's innovative work in the fintech space for some time, particularly your recent 'PayEasy' product launch, I was thrilled to see an opportunity to contribute to your team."

5. The Body Paragraph(s) (The Proof)
This is the heart of your letter. Do not just list your skills. Pick two or three key requirements from the job description and provide a brief story or example that proves you have that skill.

• Example (If the job requires "Data Analysis"): "The job description emphasizes a need for strong data analysis skills. In my final year project, titled 'The Impact of...', I was responsible for collecting and analyzing survey data from over 200 participants using Microsoft Excel and SPSS. I successfully identified three key trends that formed the basis of our final report, an experience which honed my ability to turn raw data into actionable insights."

6. The "Why Us?" Paragraph (The Culture Fit)
This is where you show it's not just about any job; it's about this job.

• Example: "What excites me most about [Company Name] is your commitment to [mention a company value, like 'financial inclusion' or 'sustainability']. My volunteer work with [XYZ organization] has shown me the importance of this, and I am eager to bring my skills to a company that shares my values and is making a tangible impact."

7. The Closing Paragraph (The Call to Action)
End with confidence. Reiterate your interest and state your desire for an interview.

• Example: "Thank you for your time and consideration. My CV, attached for your review, provides further detail on my qualifications. I am confident that my skills and enthusiasm would make me a valuable asset to your team, and I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my application with you further in an interview."

8. The Sign-Off

• "Sincerely," or "Best regards,"

• (Your Typed Name)

Three Final Checks

1. Keep it to One Page: Respect the recruiter's time.

2. Tailor Every Single One: Never use a generic, copy-pasted cover letter.

3. Proofread. Then Proofread Again: A single typo can signal carelessness. Read it aloud to catch errors.

Your CV proves you are qualified. Your cover letter proves you are the right person for the job. Take the time to write a great one, and you will stand out every time.