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  • Turn your cover letter into an interview request

    Five tips on how to stand out from the crowd from Neeru Sharma, lifestyle editor at Closer magazine.

    I’ve worked for Closer for six years and started as the editorial assistant. 

    My role involves keeping up to date with the latest celebrity news, health and wellbeing stories. Each week my team is tasked with searching for an exclusive celebrity interview or photoshoot. 

    I love being able to find out what’s going on in the lives of our favourite celebrities and sharing that with our readers.

    Here are my tips on how to stand out from the crowd with your cover letter.


    1. Research

    Make sure you read the last few issues of the publication you’re writing to and include features you enjoyed and explain what struck you. 

    It could be a celebrity cover interview, a real-life report, or even a regular franchise. It’s impressive to demonstrate that you’re familiar with the contents. 

    If you’re up to speed with stories and understand the order and flow of the sections, it will help enormously to understand conversations between staff during your time there.

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    2. Make it count

    It is no secret that including the correct name of the recipient will make a good impression, and it is not to be underestimated. 

    In an age where most editors are found on Twitter and LinkedIn, there should be no need to start a letter with ‘sir’ or ‘madam.’ 

    You’ll find staff lists in the masthead of most publications, and if you’re still unsure, phone the editorial assistant and ask them for clarity. 

    It demonstrates good initiative and basic research skills. If all else fails, simply start with ‘Dear Team Closer/Heat!’ etc.

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    3. Be personable

    Remember, we’re all human. Use language in your covering letter, that you would use in everyday conversation. 

    Avoid using textbook phrases like ‘teamwork’ and ‘adaptability’ and instead explain in simple terms why you would love to experience the pace of a newsroom. 

    Don’t be afraid to bring in your personality. If you’re a die-hard fan of a TV listings mag, don’t be shy to include your opinions of a current show.

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    4. Be concise

    Whether it’s a CV or a covering letter, the likelihood is that an editor will be sifting through hundreds of applications and won’t have time to read each one thoroughly. 

    Think about consolidating the contents of your application by including only what’s necessary to the role. 

    In a covering letter, point out key things, such as articles you have written, and projects you have helped with. Place them close to the top, in order grab the attention of the editor.

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    5. Double check

    Remember: an editor will easily pick up on spelling and grammatical errors. Just one mistake could mean your letter is put aside in the ‘no’ pile. Read it back to yourself, and out loud.