Do Tanzanian Employers Read Cover Letters?
Yes — especially for formal sector roles. While not every job posting requires one, submitting a tailored cover letter sets you apart from candidates who only send a CV. Government positions, NGOs, and corporate roles in particular expect a well-written application letter.
A cover letter is your chance to explain why you're the right fit for this specific role at this specific company — something a CV alone cannot do.
Cover Letter Structure
**Header:** Your name, contact details, date, and the employer's name and address.
**Opening paragraph:** State the position you're applying for and where you found it. Hook the reader with a compelling reason why you're interested.
**Middle paragraph(s):** Connect your skills and experience to the job requirements. Use specific examples and achievements. Show that you understand the company's work in Tanzania.
**Closing paragraph:** Restate your interest, mention your availability for an interview, and thank the reader.
**Key rules:** - Maximum 1 page - Tailor every letter — generic cover letters are obvious and ineffective - Address it to a specific person if possible - Proofread meticulously — errors signal carelessness - Use formal but natural language
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- **Repeating your CV** — the cover letter should complement, not copy, your CV - **Being too generic** — "I am writing to apply for the advertised position" tells the employer nothing - **Focusing on what you want** — employers care about what you can do for them - **Exceeding one page** — recruiters won't read a 3-page cover letter - **Using informal language** — "Hey, I'd love to join your team" is too casual for most Tanzanian employers - **Forgetting to customize** — mentioning the wrong company name is an instant rejection