How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter
Applying for jobs requires two things a good resume and even a better cover letter. If you’re reading this, then you’re probably done perfecting your CV, so it’s time to work on that cover letter. A cover letter is what helps promote your application and explains to the employer why the job is suitable for you. Hence, it’s an essential part of every job application. So, how can you write the perfect cover letter?
The Purpose of Your Cover Letter
A cover letter is a one-page document you submit alongside your CV to introduce why you’re suitable for the position.
A cover letter is around 250-400 words and includes:
- Introduction about yourself and your professional background
- The job you’re applying for and your skills that match the job
Your cover letter should grab HR’s attention to read your resume. Hence make sure to follow this format:
- Header – Includes your contact information
- Greet the manager
- Opening paragraph
- Body (Two paragraphs of why you’re the perfect candidate for the job and a match for the company)
- Formal conclusion
What You Should Write in Your Cover Letter?
Before finalizing your cover letter, make sure you have the following included:
Start with your Contact Details
The header is made to have your contact details, so make sure it includes your name, email, and phone number. Make sure your email is professional to impress the HR Manager.
Add their name and contact details
That space under your contact detail is made for the employer’s name, position, and contact details. If you’re not sure who the employer is, you can always use ‘To whom it may concern.’
What Job Are You Applying For?
You should always add the position in the introduction paragraph to reflect that it’s a personal cover letter to this specific position.
Your Skills & Why You’re Right for the Job
At that point, it’s time to share your skills and experiences to reflect that you’re suitable for the position. If you’re applying through the website, chances are essential skills are already listed. So make sure you have all the essential skills to get you that job and mention them to reflect why you’re right for the job.
Speak their Language
Do your research before writing the cover letter to speak the company’s language. Understand the industry, the company language, and sell yourself using that to your advantage.
What Shouldn’t be Included in Your Cover Letter?
There are some things you should watch out for when writing your cover letter.
Typos
Always double-check the spelling in your cover letter. You can either let someone else read it or use online applications to make sure there are no typos. Check everything is spelled correctly, including the names of companies or people.
Don’t Include Your Whole Resume
Your cover letter should be short and straightforward. There’s no need to tell your whole story in there. Instead, you can mention what you need in your resume.
Never Mentioning Other Job Applications
Whether you’re looking for new opportunities or aiming higher, there’s no need to mention other job applications. The point of the cover letter is to show the employer why you’re interested in the position you’re applying for.
Using ‘I’ Too Much
The job you’re applying for is not about you; it’s about how you will add value to the company and help the employer. Thus, try not to use ‘I’ too much.
It’s always important to submit a cover letter with your application. It helps show why you add value to the company. If you don’t know how to write a cover letter, keep the tips mentioned above in your mind, and you’re good to go.
If you’re reading this, then you’re probably done working on your CV, and it’s time to perfect that cover letter, and here’s how you should do it.
