Cover letters, or job application letters, bring
resumes to life and can be the key to landing an interview. Knowing how to
write a cover letter can differentiate your application and create a positive
first impression.
An impression that could be the difference between
obtaining a job interview and being left in the resume stack
Ingredients of a
successful cover letter
1. Cover
letter introduction
Introduce yourself, and then explain why you are
applying to the job opening. State precisely the position you are seeking and
give some indication of where you obtained information about the company or
position. Write with the reader's needs in mind.
2. Cover
letter body
Explain why you feel you are the very best candidate
for the position. State how your experience and background fits the job as well
as how you can contribute to the company’s business objectives if hired. Be
sure to refer to your resume at least once in the body of the letter. Also,
mention why you feel that you would be a good cultural fit for the organization
and team.
3. Cover letter conclusion
Thank the reader for their consideration and mention
when and where you might be reached to schedule an interview. Don’t hesitate to
mention that you will be following up with a phone call within the next week.
Use referrals if possible; recommendations may enhance your credibility with
potential employers and your chances of securing an interview opportunity.
Additional job
application letter tips
Personalize it
If possible, personalize your job application letter.
Address it to a specific person and make sure to check the spelling of the
company and the recipient’s name.
Study examples
Search for cover letter examples to get a variety of
additional templates. Sample cover letters will also give you an idea of what
others in your field focus on.
Job application letter
A job application letter is a type of cover letter
that responds to a known job opening, as opposed to prospecting or networking
letters.
Your cover letter is like a handshake—it’s how you
introduce yourself to employers when you apply for a job. Like a good
handshake, you want your cover letter to be strong, succinct, and make a great
first impression.
This isn’t a part of the job application process you
want to skimp on, either. A cover letter allows you to go into more detail than
your resume allows, explain gaps in your employment history or your need for a
career change, and make a case as to why you would be a great fit for the
position. And a great cover letter can open the door to scoring an interview
and, ultimately, landing a job.
Make sure your first impression is a good and lasting
one by avoiding these common mistakes below when writing your cover letter.
1. Overusing “I”
Your cover letter is not your autobiography. The focus
should be on how you meet an employer's needs, not on your life story. Avoid
the perception of being self-centered by minimizing your use of the word
"I," especially at the beginning of your sentences.
2. Using a
weak opening
When writing a cover letter, job seekers frequently
struggle with the cover letter's opening. This difficulty often results in a
feeble introduction lacking punch and failing to grab the reader's interest.
Consider this example:
Weak:
Please consider me for your sales representative opening.
Better:
Your need for a top-performing sales representative is an excellent match to my
three-year history as a top-ranked, multi-million-dollar producer.
3. Omitting your top selling points
A cover letter is a sales letter that sells you as a
candidate. Just like your resume, it should be compelling and give the main
reasons you should be called for an interview. Winning cover letter tips
include emphasizing your top accomplishments or creating subheadings culled
from the job posting.
For example:
Your ad specifies: Communication skills
I offer: Five years of public speaking experience and
an extensive background in executive-level report.
Your ad specifies: The need for a strong computer
background
I offer: Proficiency in all MS Office applications
with additional expertise in website development and design.
4. Making it too long
If your cover letter exceeds one page, you may be
putting readers to sleep. A great cover letter is concise but compelling, and
respects the reader's time.
5. Repeating your resume word for word
Your cover letter shouldn't regurgitate what's on your
resume. Reword your cover letter statements to avoid dulling your resume's
impact. Consider using the letter to tell a brief story, such as "my
toughest sale" or "my biggest technical challenge."
6. being vague
If you're replying to an advertised opening—as opposed
to writing a cold cover letter—reference the specific job title in your cover
letter. The person reading your letter may be reviewing hundreds of letters for
dozens of different jobs. Make sure all of the content in your letter supports
how you will meet the employer's specific needs.
7. Forgetting to customize
If you're applying to a number of similar positions,
chances are you're tweaking one letter and using it for multiple openings.
That's fine, as long as you customize each letter. Don't forget to update the
company, job and contact information—if Mr. Jones is addressed as Ms. Smith, he
won't be impressed.
8. Ending on a passive note
When possible, put your future in your own hands with
a promise to follow up. Instead of asking readers to call you, try a statement
like this: I will follow up with you in a few days to answer any preliminary
questions you may have. In the meantime, you may reach me at (555) 555-5555.
9. being rude
Your cover letter should thank the reader for his or
her time and consideration.
10. Forgetting to sign the letter
It is proper business etiquette (and shows attention
to detail) to sign your letter. Err on the side of formality, and if you need
any help figuring out how to close your cover letter, consider these possible
sign-offs. However, if you are sending an email cover letter and resume, a
signature isn't necessary.
This is an example of a cover letter:
I am interested in applying for the project assistant position that was listed on 29/03/2018.
I have experience in scheduling appointments, communications with clients, and I am familiar with a variety of phone systems. My communication, organizations and administration skills are excellent.
I believe that I would be an asset to your office. This position would provide me with the ideal opportunity to assist at your organization and to expand my administrative skills.
My schedule is flexible, and I would be available to work at your convenience.
I hope to schedule an interview at a mutually convenient time.
I look forward to speaking with you.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
XYZ
Email:
Cell:
Cell: