Writing Covering Letters

What Do You Need to Say?

A strong introduction to your CV is a great opportunity to give the reader a positive first impression of your application.

Job Application Format

If you are attaching a CV, make sure your covering letter is included in the email body rather than as a second attachment. In this format it is easier to read as a taster and at the same time as the attached CV itself.  Maxim prefers Word format to PDF so the CV can be formatted as required and most easily indexed for future database searching and retrieval.

Job Application Submission

Simple upload or email submission are the most common and the most desirable methods of submitting applications to construction recruitment agencies and to construction employers. Most companies prefer this method as it is easier and quicker to process and respond to the applications received.  

Check, Check and Check Again

Always triple check spelling, grammar and purpose of what you are writing before sending it out. Don't rush and ideally get someone else to check it too!

Job Title/Reference

Within a covering letter indicate the title or job reference to a particular job, role type or location you are applying for, or details explaining the particular section of construction you are most interested in. Just as people don’t like spam email, recruiters and employers respond better to personalised applications.

Job Source

Recruiters appreciate it if you mention the advert or referral source that prompted your application.

Be specific

You will reduce the likelihood of calls about positions you are not interested in if you provide clear indication of what you are and aren’t looking for in your covering letter. For example:

My preference is for a Senior Quantity Surveyor position with a civil engineering contractor in the London area. Although as my CV indicates, I have worked for a PQS practice for the past 5 years, I would not be interested in a further position as a PQS, or a role based in a rail environment as I am seeking a role with a civil engineering contractor.

NEXT STEP

Job Interviews »

Contact Us

UK Head Office
0116 473 5358
0203 710 8098
uk@maximrecruitment.com

Asia Region
+852 5444 0094
asia@maximrecruitment.com

North America
Telephone: +1 639  387 0284
canada@maximrecruitment.com

usa@maximrecruitment.com

Middle East Region
middleeast@maximrecruitment.com

Newsletter

Get construction industry news relating to the UK, Canada, Asia, the Middle East and other worldwide locations.

Subscribe

Maxim Insights

How to Attract Top UK-Based Quantity Surveyors for International Projects

We specialise in helping global firms source the best UK-based talent for overseas opportunities. Here's how to optimise your recruitment strategy and stand out in a busy construction job site marketplace.…

Read more »

The Real Cost of a Bad Hire | And How Specialist Recruiters Reduce the Risk

Whilst on the face of it, using a construction recruitment consultancy may seem to increase the cost of recruitment, if you are looking to build a high quality and profitable workforce that meets client needs, a construction recruitment consultancy service is well worth the cost. Lets take a look at this further.…

Read more »

What’s the Difference Between a Quantity Surveyor and an Estimator?

At first glance, both Quantity Surveyors and Estimators are concerned with costs. They work with numbers, evaluate drawings and specifications, and aim to ensure that construction projects remain financially viable. However, their involvement in a project's lifecycle—and the purpose of their cost-related work—differs significantly.…

Read more »

Working abroad | How international jobs can transform your life and career

Working abroad as a Quantity Surveyor isn’t just a career move — it’s a life-changing experience. Whether you’re drawn to the innovation of Norway, the tax-free rewards of Dubai, the relaxed pace of Barbados, the natural beauty of Canada, or the structured progression in the UK, each destination offers a unique blend of opportunity, growth, and lifestyle.…

Read more »

Need Fast Access to Top Talent for Open Roles?

In today’s fast-moving construction and infrastructure markets, whether you're delivering building developments in the UK, civil engineering projects in Canada, or handling international infrastructure assignments, hiring the right people swiftly makes all the difference.…

Read more »

Industry News

Hinkley Point contractors prosecuted for fatal safety failings

Three companies leading the construction of the Hinkley Point C nuclear power station are being prosecuted for health and safety offences following a worker fatality.

Source: The Construction Index Last updated: 4 July, 02:49

Read more »

UK construction activity falls for six consecutive month

The monthly PMI had its best reading of the year so far in June but it remains in negative territory.

Source: The Construction Index Last updated: 4 July, 09:28

Read more »

CIRIA updates thrust restraints guidance

CIRIA, formerly the Construction Industry Research & Information Association has published new guidance relating to pipelines.

Source: The Construction Index Last updated: 4 July, 07:35

Read more »

East Riding stays local for professional support

East Riding of Yorkshire Council has appointed three local consultancies for a £22m framework.

Source: The Construction Index Last updated: 4 July, 07:13

Read more »

Gleeson Homes bins chief exec in reorganisation

MJ Gleeson has reorganised its house-building operations, resulting in the redundancy of the Gleeson Homes chief executive.

Source: The Construction Index Last updated: 4 July, 06:48

Read more »