In the ever-evolving job market, it is crucial to be able to effectively communicate your skills and experiences to potential employers. One of the key components of a successful job application is a well-crafted cover letter. While the importance of cover letters can be debated, they can offer an invaluable opportunity to showcase your unique qualities and make a lasting impression on hiring managers. This chapter will guide you through the process of creating an engaging and tailored cover letter, highlighting the do's and don'ts, and providing a comprehensive template to help you stand out from the competition.
Debate rages as to whether the cover letter is still a mandatory element of a professional job search. Many recruiters don’t read them or even throw them away, the most common complaint being the letters simply explain what is included in the resume; recruiters prefer to go straight to the resume. On the other hand, some recruiters and hiring managers would never consider a resume that was not accompanied by a well-written cover letter which indicates a certain professionalism and demonstrates writing ability. Know how to construct an effective cover letter and always try to include one with a resume if possible.
When applying online, sometimes there is a separate place in which to submit a cover letter, separate from the resume. The T-Chart should always be submitted as page one of the resume since the Chart is what gets your resume through the ATS system. Don’t submit it as a cover letter
An effective cover letter tells the story behind your resume, why you chose this field or why you’re particularly interested in your targeted company. It’s fine to have a templated cover letter when you’re pressed for time or the company is not on your A list, but when it’s for a job that you really want, you need to spend the time to craft a targeted cover letter.
Tailored to job announcement for a particular position
Ontroduces the résumé and serves as a marketing tool
Convinces the employer to invite you for an interview
Proves that you can do the job
Shows enthusiasm for the job and the organization
Research the position and the company prior to beginning the cover letter
Write "Hello my name is..."
Write more than one page
Just repeat your résumé
Indent your paragraphs
Write "To Whom It May Concern"
Write general statements regarding your desire to work for the organization, or how you are impressed with it
Is it worth writing a cover letter knowing it might never be read? The short answer is yes. Some recruiters don’t read cover letters and go straight to the résumé, but other recruiters read and carefully weigh the information in cover letters. You don’t know which recruiter will receive your résumé and letter, so write the best cover letter you can. A well-written cover letter is an opportunity to present yourself well and influence a recruiter, so always take full advantage of that opportunity. A cover letter can also be viewed as your first conversation with a future employer, so be certain its quality is exceptional.
Your cover letter should be engaging, informative, and show your command of the written word. It should flow easily from a reader’s perspective, making the connection between the opportunity and your ability to succeed if given the chance. The tone should be compelling. You should be excited about the opportunity and you should be confident of your ability to succeed (even if you truly lack the confidence).
Preparation and practice are critical to every step of the job search process, and the cover letter is no different. These actions can help make your cover letter compelling:
Make a list of your top ten strengths and weaknesses.
Decipher the job description to identify each separate skill and qualification.
Compare the two lists to see if they are in alignment. Also identify the gaps—does the job description list something that you haven’t done?
Highlight your top three skills that align with the job description as you will use them in your cover letter.
Don’t count out the opportunity if you don’t fit every requirement. Do your best to think of something that is somewhat related. For example, if you have never worked in a fast-paced sales environment, focus on your desire to learn. Focus on the fact that you’ve observed fast-paced sales environments, and those situations appeal to you. At the very least, you could think of the fact that although you don’t have direct experience in that particular environment, you have always been very proactive in completing tasks as quickly and efficiently as possible.
If you are a strong match for the majority of the requirements, ensure you have specific, results-oriented examples to demonstrate these skills.
You will not have a clear indication as to which skills are more important than others, so use your best judgment call. Treat each skill as if it’s the most important. For example, consider communication skills—have a specific, results-oriented example of your verbal skills and your written skills. At some point, however, you will want to select the three skills you think are most important, match them to your strongest skills, and then write your cover letter.
Re: Job title, posting number __________, posted on website/job board, LinkedIn, etc.
Dear Ms / Mr ____________:
[Note: If you don’t have a name, use Hiring Manager or Recruiter]
I was excited to see your posting for the position of _____________. It’s exactly what I’ve been looking for, and my qualifications are a solid match for your requirements. Here’s a snapshot of some of my skills [or projects or accomplishments] that relate to your job description:
1.
2.
3.
4.
That tells you what I’ve done, but it doesn’t tell you what kind of person I am. I currently work full-time and am taking a full course load, still maintaining a 3.6 GPA. My raised-on-a-farm work ethic fits perfectly with the dynamic environment at XYZ. You will never hear me say, “That’s not my job.” Although I work well independently, I thrive on collaboration and have learned that teamwork yields the best results.
I hope you find that my skills and attitude are what you’re looking for. I look forward to meeting with you in an interview.
Sincerely,
Name
Cell number
Email address
Most job descriptions can be copied from the employer’s website. Copy the job description and do the following (if you only have a hard copy, it’s worthwhile to retype it as you’ll want to manipulate each requirement for the position):
Put each skill and qualification on a separate line.
Group like with like. If communication skills are listed as important, in addition to giving presentations to potential clients, list one after the other.
In the following sample, each component of the job description is considered and deciphered, in preparation for applying and eventually interviewing for the position.
The cover letter template includes three main sections:
The introductory paragraph
The last paragraph, which reiterates your interest
The magic middle
In the introductory paragraph, you introduce yourself to the hiring manager or recruiter. The paragraph should include five general items:
Why you are contacting them
How you heard about the position (If someone referred you, mention the name of your contact.)
Whether you are still in school and, if so, your major and minor
How your work experience pertains to your desired or targeted job
Why you are interested in the position
In the last paragraph, you summarize and close, taking the following five steps:
Reiterate your interest.
State you would be a perfect match because your strengths match the key skills necessary to succeed at the job.
Inform them that you will contact them in a week.
Ask that they contact you if they have any questions or an interest in moving forward.
Thank them for their time and consideration.
The middle of the cover letter is magical because it makes the case for why you’d be an exceptional hire. Select three strengths necessary to excel and assign each strength to a bulleted section or brief paragraph. Boldly indicate your strengths and include your best examples of how you excel at each strength. See the following sample cover letter as an example of how to highlight your strengths.
In conclusion, a well-written cover letter can play a pivotal role in your job search by providing a personalized and compelling introduction to potential employers. By taking the time to understand the job description, tailor your cover letter to the specific requirements of the position, and showcase your strengths, you will increase your chances of landing an interview and ultimately securing the job you desire. Remember that practice and preparation are crucial in crafting a standout cover letter, so invest the necessary time and effort to ensure your application leaves a lasting impression. With the guidance provided in this chapter, you are well on your way to creating a cover letter that effectively markets your skills and experiences and sets you apart from the competition.