Cover Letter: A guide, outlining the must-haves and pitfalls
Written by Wahidul Miah at EmpowerEdge recruitment
Crafting a cover letter alongside your job application isn't just a formality – it positions you as a proactive candidate genuinely intrigued by the role.
Let's break it down: what exactly is a cover letter? It's a document often submitted with your CV, offering a personal introduction and a succinct summary of why you're the perfect fit for the job. The CV then serves as a deeper dive into your professional journey.
Regrettably, not every candidate puts in the effort to tailor their cover letter. However, doing so significantly boosts your chances of capturing the reader's attention. As communication expert Jodi Glickman rightly notes, skipping a cover letter is a red flag akin to neglecting spelling and grammar in your resume – a definite no-no.
Quick tips for an effective cover letter:
- Dive into research before you start writing. This sets the tone and helps you include relevant points. Explore the organization’s industry, culture, and values through official websites, social media profiles, and employee reviews.
- Personalize it. With information more accessible than ever, there's no excuse for getting names wrong or not addressing the hiring manager personally. Avoid the copy-and-paste trap; tailor each letter to the specific position.
- Hook the reader with a robust introduction. The first sentence is make-or-break. Powerfully demonstrate your understanding of what the company needs, instantly showcasing your unique selling points.
- Leverage connections. If you've encountered the opportunity through a friend or have previous ties to the organization, mention it. Personal connections can make a significant impact.
- Optimize the subject line. Check the job description for specific instructions and incorporate relevant keywords without overloading.
- Include essential contact information: name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn URL.
- Sign off professionally. Wrap up the main body with a powerful phrase expressing your desire to contribute, and conclude with "Best regards" or "Sincerely."
- Pay attention to detail. Spell-check and ensure proper formatting, especially if submitting as an online attachment. Break lengthy paragraphs into readable sections.
Things to avoid:
- Keep it concise. Concrete facts trump lengthy, convoluted language.
- Mind the details. Confirm names, express availability, and sign off appropriately – these small touches can set you apart.
- Avoid redundancy. Your cover letter should complement, not replicate, your CV or LinkedIn profile.
- Balance flattery. Maintain professionalism; excessive praise can come across as insincere or insecure.
- Personalize your approach. A cover letter is a direct letter to the employer – avoid a detached, third-person narrative.
- Stick to standard fonts. Professionalism is key; readability matters for both hiring managers and applicant tracking systems.
While the core purpose of a cover letter remains constant, the presentation has evolved. Today, cover letters can take the form of personalized notes on LinkedIn or emails attaching your CV.
Here’s a Example job application cover letter,
123 Oak Street
Citytown, State 78901
Emily R. Johnson
(555) 987-6543
XYZ Corporation
789 Corporate Avenue
Citytown, State 78901
February 15, 2024
Dear Ms. Anderson,
Subject line: Application for Marketing Manager Position
I discovered XYZ Corporation through a colleague, Susan Davis, at the recent industry summit. The Marketing Manager role immediately caught my eye, aligning seamlessly with my seven years of marketing experience, particularly my success in spearheading impactful digital campaigns at ABC Marketing Agency.
Your company's dedication to innovation resonates with my proven track record in strategic marketing, resulting in a 30% surge in online engagement for a major client. I am confident that my expertise in digital strategy and campaign optimization would significantly contribute to XYZ Corporation's marketing objectives.
I am eager to delve into how my experience aligns with your needs. Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my CV and am hopeful for the opportunity to discuss this further in an interview.
Best regards,
Emily R. Johnson
Remember, tailor your cover letter to the specific job you're applying for.