Career Journey

Here’s why covering letters matter so much to charities and how you can make yours stand out.

If you’ve ever applied for a charity role and paused at the request for a covering letter, you’re not alone. In a world of automated applications and quick/auto apply CV submissions, covering letters may seem old-fashioned but for charities, they’re aren’t. In fact, for many organisations in the nonprofit sector, a well-written covering letter can be the most important part of your application.

Make sure it is a proper letter format – include the date, what’s it in reference to, address it to the right person, and don’t forget to formally sign off!

Mission Matters

Charities don’t just hire people to do a job—they look for people who believe in their mission. A covering letter is your chance to explain why you care about their cause. Whether it’s tackling homelessness, protecting the environment, or supporting vulnerable children, showing a personal connection or genuine interest in the charity’s work can make a big difference.

🟢 Tip: Reference a specific campaign, value, or impact report that inspired you. Show them you’ve done your research and that their cause means something to you.

It’s About More Than the CV

CVs are great for listing skills and achievements, but they don’t always tell the story behind them. A covering letter allows you to explain how your experience connects to the charity’s goals. This is especially useful if you’re transitioning into the sector from another field or if you’ve done voluntary work that doesn’t sit neatly on your CV.

🟢 Tip: Don’t just repeat your CV, add context. Explain the why and how behind your roles, and link your experience directly to the job description.

Communication Is Key

Whether you’re fundraising, supporting service users, or managing volunteers, clear and empathetic communication is essential in charity roles. A covering letter gives the hiring manager a first look at how you express yourself in writing. It’s your opportunity to demonstrate clarity, warmth, and purpose—all vital in the sector.

🟢 Tip: Use straightforward, genuine language. Avoid jargon and write like you’re speaking to a real person—because you are.

Effort Reflects Enthusiasm

When a recruiter reads your covering letter, they can usually tell whether it was copied, rushed, or carefully tailored. Taking the time to write a thoughtful letter shows that you’re serious about the role—and that you’re not just sending out the same generic application to every organisation.

🟢 Tip: Address the letter to a named person if possible, and refer directly to the charity’s work. Mention a recent news item, event, or project they’ve run that caught your attention.

Charities Hire People, Not Just Skill Sets

Especially in smaller charities, hiring managers are often looking for someone who will fit the culture and bring energy and commitment to a close-knit team. A covering letter is where your personality can shine through. It’s your chance to show who you are and what drives you—not just what you’ve done.

🟢 Tip: Be authentic. If a cause or experience genuinely moved you, say so. Passion counts.

Final Thoughts

In the charity sector, covering letters aren’t just a formality – they’re a window into your values, motivation, and potential. They help organisations understand not only what you’ve done, but why you care.

So next time you apply for a charity job, don’t see the covering letter as a chore. See it as your opportunity to make a human connection with the organisation—and to start the conversation that could lead to meaningful work.