Although it is considered the most comprehensive document regarding employment details, a resume is not the only requirement that employers ask for. Most of the time, companies require you to submit a cover letter, your resume, and other documents. Essentially, a cover letter overviews your related skills and experience and how it suits the job description and requested qualifications. To better understand what it is, you may browse for a cover letter sample online and examine how it is constructed. If you are keen on creating your own, here are some tips that you need to keep in mind:
Be concise
The flood of information bombarding us nowadays has resulted in shorter attention spans. Cover letters are no exception. Managers are frequently flooded with applications. Therefore, word choice is critical. Use a three-paragraph approach, with each paragraph focusing on a different component of your application. Begin with an enticing introduction demonstrating your excitement for the role and the firm. If you have a referral, please include their name below. This is your sales pitch, in which you highlight your top abilities, accomplishments, and traits and explain how they relate to this specific role or firm. Finally, briefly state how you can add value, thank the hiring manager for their time, and initiate the next step by saying that you’d like to follow up with a phone call or an interview.
Tailor your cover letter to a specific job
Don’t use a one-size-fits-all cover letter template for every job you apply for. If you do, you’re missing the point: only a letter tailored to the position will make a good impression. Create a cover letter that employers cannot ignore by linking it to the aspects of the job that fit your unique abilities and expertise. What are they looking for that you are exceptionally skilled at? What distinguishes your contribution? These are the main points to emphasize when writing a cover letter. Equally crucial, gather facts and figures to back up your claims. If you’re applying for a managerial position, mention the size of teams and budgets you’ve managed. Discuss particular sales goals you’ve met if you’re applying for a sales position. In addition to emphasizing your skills, you can personalize your cover letter by displaying your expertise in the industry, employer, and position type.
Use keywords, numbers, and examples
Many businesses employ resume-filtering software that scans for keywords and assesses how closely resumes and cover letters match the desired abilities and experience. Your cover letter should include essential phrases from the job description that connects with your background and strengths. During the writing process, carefully check the job advertisement. Moreover, show how you’ve made a demonstrable impact on past organizations. To quantify results, provide specific figures, percentages, or a range or estimate. Giving examples can also assist you in demonstrating what you’ve accomplished. When describing what you’ve done and what you can offer to your future position, try to show rather than tell.
Always proofread
Last but not least, in this list of how to write cover letter tips, proofread your work. After you’ve made a strong case for your candidacy and polished your letter, have it reviewed by a friend or family member with a keen eye for typos, grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. Finally, include a job posting copy to ensure you’ve covered all bases.
In conclusion, when applying for jobs that demand a cover letter, remember that you’re receiving a valuable opportunity to showcase your skills and provide a peek of your true personality. Use the chance to highlight your most substantial assets while demonstrating that you value the hiring manager’s time and attention.