What is a cover letter? A question many people are confused about, and this is why they end up not getting the best response from it. A cover letter, also known as a covering letter, motivation letter, or motivational letter, is an introduction letter attached to your CV that gives the reader some context about who you are.
It is also a trendsetter for the rest of your CV, so you can give an outstanding first image of yourself that carries through. Your first impression is the last, so you should make it count. Besides, cover letters have a creative way of showcasing who you are.
So, without further ado, let's learn how to make your cover letter stand out from the competition.
Don't rehash your CV.
Your cover letter should not be a regurgitation of your CV; this is an opportunity for you to elaborate on your experience and highlight the skills that make you the best candidate for the job. You have to make sure that your cover letter complements your CV and doesn't repeat it. That is where you should showcase your ambition, promote yourself and express your enthusiasm about the role you are applying for. Do it distinctly from the rest of your CV. It should show you have done proper research on the company, and there should be a call to action at the end so the employer can follow up with you. After all, the best cover letters require a good presentation.
Use fewer words and say more.
When it comes to writing a good cover letter, less is definitely more. Use simple words and short sentences to get your point across; this is not the time to show off your vocabulary or try to be overly creative with your language. Be clear and concise in your writing so that the employer can easily understand what you are trying to say.
It's also important to avoid using too much "I" in your cover letter. For example, instead of saying, "I am the best candidate for this job," try "My qualifications make me the ideal candidate for this role." By doing this, you will sound more confident and competent.
Customise your cover letter.
One of the biggest mistakes job seekers make is sending out generic cover letters to every employer; this is a surefire way to make your cover letter blend in with the rest. If you want your cover letter to stand out, you need to customise it for each job application. That means tailoring the document to fit the specific position you are applying for. Show the reader you mean business and are here to impress. It would be best if you delivered through your words why you are the most suitable option. It is a platform to sell yourself and your skillset, and writing a good cover letter requires you to include these things.
Tailor your cover letter.
When you are tailoring your cover letter, you should keep a few key things in mind. First, think about what the employer is looking for and how you can address those needs. Next, focus on your strengths and highlight the experiences and skills that make you the best candidate for the job.
Finally, don't forget to include a call to action so the employer knows how to contact you! If you tailor your cover to the specific job you are applying for, it will feel more personal to the reader and show them that you are truly interested in the role. Not only this, but it will also showcase your knowledge about the role you are applying for.
Other Best Practices When Creating a Good Cover letter
Having mentioned a few pointers that can assure you write the best cover letter, let us also look at some other things that play an important role.
Address the hiring manager personally.
When addressing the hiring manager in your cover letter, make sure to use their proper title. For example, if the job listing says "To Whom It May Concern," don't start your letter with "Hey there!" Addressing the reader by their name shows that you have done your research and are taking the time to personalise your application. This small detail can go a long way in making your cover letter stand out from the rest! Add these personal touches while making sure you sound respectful at all times.
Use keywords.
When you are applying for a job, the employer will be looking for certain keywords in your cover letter. These keywords will be specific to the job listing and vary depending on what position you are applying for. For example, if you are applying for a marketing job, they may be looking for words like "branding," "social media," and "marketing strategy." Ensure these keywords in your cover letter so that the employer knows you have the skills and experience in the fields they are looking for.
Throw in numbers.
When writing your cover letter, try to include some numbers to back up your claims. For example, if you say you increased sales by 20%, include actual numbers from your past experiences. That will show the employer that you are not just making things up and that you truly have the skills and experience they are looking for. Throwing in some numbers gives a nice impression, and people like seeing statistical data as it better represents your growth and accomplishments. Statistics certainly help in writing a good cover letter.
Proofread your work.
The best cover letters have one thing in common; the care and effort that their creators took to make them. That is why the last thing you want to do is submit a cover letter with grammar or spelling errors. That will make you look unprofessional and hurt your chances of getting the job. Always proofread your work before sending it off to the employer. You can even have someone else read it over for you to catch any mistakes you may have missed. It is better to be safe than sorry, so take the time to proofread your work!
As you can see, there are a few key things you should keep in mind when writing a good cover letter. By following these tips, are sure to write a standout cover letter that can help you get the job you want! Remember to tailor your letter, address the hiring manager personally, use keywords, throw in some numbers, and proofread your work before hitting send.
We have answered some frequently asked questions below, and we suggest you go through them if you want more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should a cover letter be?
A cover letter should be around three paragraphs long. You want to include all the necessary information without making it too long and boring for the reader.
What should I include in a cover letter?
When writing a cover letter, you want to make sure you include the following:
1. Your contact information
2. The date
3. The employer's contact information
4. A salutation
5. Body paragraphs
6. A closing
7. Your signature
What is the best way to format a cover letter?
When it comes to formatting your cover letter, you want to make sure it is easy to read and looks professional. We recommend using 12-point font size and keeping your margins around one inch.
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