Five-ish Tips for a Better Cover Letter
When the hiring manager first receives your cover letter, the interview process has begun. The job market is competitive. Instead of relying on your Linkedin profile, write a cover letter that presents you as their top candidate. The cover letter needs to show that you've done your research for this job and show that you're qualified and capable. Also, it should grasp the reader's interest in why they should read your resume. Here are five-ish tips to help you start:
1. Introduce yourself and why you are the candidate they are looking for.
Why this company and position? Why do you think you can handle what the job demands? How well do you know this company? This is where you would express your interest in the role and how your past experiences have molded you for this position. Tailor the letter to the specific job. Be sure to include two or three relevant accomplishments that demonstrate your ability to succeed in the role.
2. Be concise! Outline why your skills and experiences make you qualified for the job, but make it short and sweet. Your writing style, grammar skills and overall tone will be examined. Remember, the hiring manager has probably read dozens of other cover letters that specify their exemplary attention to detail. While you emphasize your accomplishments, sprinkle in some power verbs in a natural sounding way. It will give the reader insight into your creative and technical skills.
3. Keep connecting back to the company. Use the format: "your position specifies a candidate that has experience with XYZ, and I have *insert power verb here* with XYZ.” The letter should have a natural flow just like if you were pitching yourself in person. The tone should continue to read as friendly and professional. No matter how you continue pitching yourself, be original and always connect it back to the company.
4. Don't skimp out on the closing paragraph. Remember to directly request to speak further about your interest in the job. Sum up your interest, qualifications, and take the time to address any unemployment gaps here. It's best to be upfront and not leave any room for assumptions. Don't be afraid to ask to meet with them, this is why you are writing the letter and why they are reading it. It helps to maintain your personable tone because you want the reader to like you. Address the hiring manager personally, and be sure to spell the hiring manager's name correctly. Don't know their name? Research it and show off your research skills.
5. It is the most basic rule of writing: Proofread it, then again and then again. Cover letters have a few more parameters to be mindful of aside from grammar errors. This is where the exemplary attention to details comes into play:
Your spacing must be single spaced throughout the letter and not just paragraphs and addresses. Also, single space must be used between the date and your contact information. Consistency is key, so single space must be used between your greeting and the first paragraph. When you’re ready, sign your name in ink between your complimentary close and your typed name.
Keep your cover letter one page, and remember to include your contact information, address, and their address.
Set one-inch margins on all sides.
Pick one font and be consistent in using the same font in your resume. You can't go wrong with Times New Roman 12 pt.
Read it out loud, and listen for any interruptions to your flow.
These tips are meant to help you stand out above the competition. When it is written in a way that conveys the kind of person you are and the kind of employee you will be, your letter should help open doors for you.
Written by Melissa Quiles