How to write a cover letter for a healthcare assistant job

In the competitive world of job applications, a good cover letter might just boost your chances of getting a job interview. While your CV showcases your skills and experience (find out how to write an exceptional CV in our blog), your cover letter serves as the first impression you make on potential employers. It provides additional details about you that will help the hiring manager understand whether you are a good fit for the healthcare assistant position. 

In this blog post, we will delve into the key elements of how to write a good cover letter for a healthcare assistant job.

The Power of a cover letter 

A cover letter is the first impression you make on a potential employer.  Your C.V. outlines your relevant skills and experiences; your cover letter should provide additional context and details for the hiring manager.  Cover letters typically contain information regarding your accomplishments, educational background, previous work experience, and personal assets that make you a good fit for the role.  Too much information about your skills, experience or education can overwhelm a reader.

Why you should include a cover letter

A well-crafted cover letter highlights what sets you apart from other applicants and the contribution you can make to the company. It should be informative, engaging, and concise, leaving a lasting impression on the hiring manager. While not all job postings require cover letters, writing one showcases your enthusiasm for the job and determination to make an impression.

Healthcare assistant cover letter

Many healthcare positions require candidates to submit a cover letter as part of their job application.  It accompanies your C.V to highlight your strengths, experience and skills.  So that the hiring manager can look at these things in more detail in your C.V.  They will also want to determine if you’re a good fit for the organisation and the role.  Learning how to write a good healthcare assistant cover letter can also help you feel better prepared for the following stages of a job application.

What to include in a cover letter

To create a powerful cover letter, you must understand the employer’s expectations and requirements. Thoroughly review the job description and research the company’s values and culture through their website. This knowledge will allow you to tailor your letter so that you can emphasise the skills, experiences and qualifications that align with their specific needs. In addition, your cover letter can provide additional insights into your CV, addressing any employment gaps and highlighting certifications, special skills, or unique experiences that help you stand out from other candidates.

• Education, special skills or certifications
• volunteer work you have done in the field of healthcare
• any other experience you have had with healthcare

What not to include in a cover letter

When writing your cover letter, there are a few things that you should be sure to avoid.

• Don’t include your salary requirements.
• Don’t include a list of references.

Structuring your cover letter

A well-structured cover letter typically consists of the following six sections:

1. Header: include your contact information, your address, phone number, and email.
2. Salutation: address the hiring manager personally if you have their name. If not, use a generic salutation such as “Dear Hiring Manager” or “To Whom It May Concern.”
3. Introduction: introduce yourself, mention the position you are applying for, and explain how you discovered the role. Express your genuine interest in both the position and the organisation. If you have any personal connections within the company, highlight them to establish a meaningful connection.
4. Body paragraphs: use a couple of paragraphs to showcase your relevant skills, experiences, and qualifications. Demonstrate how your unique qualities align with the company culture and the requirements of the healthcare assistant role.
5. Conclusion: express your gratitude for the reader’s time and consideration of your application. Indicate your eagerness to discuss your potential contribution to the company and your enthusiasm for the opportunity.
6. Closing and signature: conclude the letter with a professional and complimentary closing, mention that your CV is attached, and sign off with your full name.

Tips for writing a healthcare assistant cover letter

Here are some final tips to help you write a healthcare assistant cover letter that will stand out:

• Be concise: it should be no longer than one page and shows your consideration for their time.
• Use professional language: use language familiar to the healthcare industry.
• Personalise your letter: adapt your letter to fit your and the job application needs. A template is a guide to help you organise your letter but make it yours!
• Follow any of the job advert directions: if it provides specific instructions for the cover letter, make sure that you follow them.
• Proofread before sending: if you don’t have someone to check it for you, the “Read Aloud” function will help you spot spelling, grammar and punctuation mistakes.

Below is a template and an example for inspiration, but don’t just copy and paste it!  Use the example as a guide to help you write your cover letter highlighting what makes you an ideal candidate for a healthcare assistant job.  And if you are interested in working in the healthcare sector then take a look at our current vacancies.  Or get in touch if you would like help in finding the perfect role for you.

Template for writing a healthcare cover letter

[Your first and last name]

[Home address]

[Phone number]

[Email address]

[Hiring manager’s name]

[Company name]

[Company address]

[Date]

Dear [hiring manager/named individual]:

Write two to three sentences: [introduce yourself, the position for which you’re applying, where you found the job advertised, why you’re the right candidate for the job if you were referred for the job or know someone, name the person]

Main body: [relevant skills and experiences, qualifications, personal qualities, why you want to work for the organisation,]

Write one or two sentences: [thank them for their time, follow up your application]

Closing statement: [attached is my C.V.]

[Your first and last name]

Healthcare cover letter example

Here is an example healthcare cover letter to help you write your own:

Bob Smith

123 Long Drive

Cheltenham, CH51 1CH

07988 850 850

bob.smith@healthcareassistant.co.uk

Mary Sullivan

Cheltenham Community Hospital

321 Short Lane

Cheltenham

10 September 2022

Dear Mary Sullivan:

I am writing to express my interest in applying for the senior healthcare assistant position listed on your website.  I have been looking for an opportunity to join the team at the community hospital for some time, and I know I would make a great addition to the team.  A previous manager Ben Parks, a nurse at the hospital, has told me about the real difference the hospital is making to the community, and I would relish the chance to be a part of this.

My training and commitment to excellent patient care began during my time at a private care home. I worked with dedication and, at the same time, completed my Healthcare Certificate within four months of joining.  Here I learned how to work independently and with careful attention to detail.  I cultivated my lifelong passion for helping others by maintaining the highest standards of safety and care.

I’ve worked in several positions that furthered my skills as a healthcare assistant.  My most recent experience is in a large hospital, where I have had the opportunity to take on more responsibility and lead others.  I would be excited to continue my learning and growth while supporting your hospital’s mission in a senior healthcare assistant role.

I would love to discuss my qualifications and experience further at your convenience.  Please see my attached C.V. for further details of my qualifications and employment history.

Sincerely,

Bob Smith

2 takeaway tips on structuring an exceptional cover letter 

• Be concise: keep your cover letter succinct, ensuring it does not exceed one page. Respect the reader’s time and make every word count.
• Use the right language: show your understanding of the healthcare industry by using the correct healthcare terminology.

Need more help on writing a cover letter?

For more guidance on how to write a good cover letter for a healthcare assistant role, speak to one of our advisers who will be happy to guide you through the process.