Far from an afterthought in your job search, a well-crafted cover letter can be the key to catching the eye of hiring managers and landing your dream job.
While your resume provides a snapshot of your qualifications, your cover letter lets you tell your story and highlight what makes you the perfect fit for the role.
In this blog, we offer nine cover letter tips for writing a letter that stands out.
Tip 1 – Tailor Your Letter to the Job
A generic cover letter won’t cut it in today’s job market. Each cover letter should be customized to the specific job and company you’re applying to. Before beginning to write, research the company, understand its culture, and identify the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the role. Mention the company’s name and the position you’re applying for in the opening paragraph. Use specific details from the job posting to explain how your background and skills make you a great fit.
For example: “I am particularly drawn to XYZ Corp’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. With over five years of experience in customer service and a passion for technology, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your team’s success.”
Tip 2 – Personalize Your Salutation
Address your cover letter to a specific person whenever possible rather than using a generic greeting like “To Whom It May Concern.” Use LinkedIn or the company’s website to find the hiring manager’s name. A personalized salutation shows that you’ve done your homework and adds a personal touch.
Tip 3 – Start with a Strong Opening
Your opening paragraph is your first impression, so make it count. Instead of the generic “I am writing to apply for the [Position] at [Company],” try to grab the reader’s attention with a compelling hook. You might start with a personal anecdote, a notable achievement, or a statement about your passion for the industry. It is important to let your personality shine through, but be sure to strike a balance between professionalism and authenticity.
For example: “I was thrilled to see an opening for a marketing manager at XYZ Corp. With a proven track record of increasing brand visibility by 50% at my previous company, I am excited to bring my strategic vision and creative skills to your team.”
Tip 4 – Tell a Story While Highlighting Relevant Experiences
Rather than simply listing your qualifications, use your cover letter to tell a story that illustrates your career journey and highlights your most relevant experiences. A compelling narrative can make your cover letter more engaging and memorable. Your cover letter should expand on the most relevant experiences listed on your resume. Use specific examples to demonstrate how your skills and accomplishments align with the job requirements. Quantify your achievements when possible to provide concrete evidence of your impact.
Tip 5 – Include Keywords from the Job Description
Many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen resumes and cover letters before they reach human eyes. Include keywords from the job description to ensure your cover letter gets past the ATS. This shows you have the skills and experiences the employer seeks.
Tip 6 – Demonstrate Cultural Fit
In addition to showcasing your skills and experiences, use your cover letter to demonstrate that you’ll be an excellent cultural fit for the company. Mention any values or aspects of the company culture that resonate with you and explain how you align with them.
Tip 7 – Keep It Concise and Focused
While providing enough detail to make your case is important, your cover letter should be concise and to the point. Aim for one page, with three to four paragraphs that clearly convey your message. Avoid unnecessary jargon or overly complex sentences.
Tip 8 – Close with a Strong Call to Action
End your cover letter with a confident and proactive closing statement. Express your enthusiasm for the opportunity to discuss your application further and suggest a next step, such as a meeting or an interview.
For example: “I am eager to bring my project management experience and passion for innovative solutions to XYZ Corp. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background and skills align with your team’s needs. Thank you for considering my application.”
Tip 9 – Proofread and Edit
Before you hit send, it’s crucial to proofread your cover letter for spelling or grammatical errors. A cover letter with mistakes can leave a negative impression and suggest a lack of attention to detail, potentially leading to your application being overlooked. Consider asking a friend or mentor to review your letter and provide feedback.
Writing A Stand Out Cover Letter – Final Thoughts
Writing a stand-out cover letter takes time and effort, but it’s an investment that can pay off through job interviews and offers. Following these tips, you can craft a compelling cover letter highlighting your qualifications, showcasing your personality, and demonstrating your fit for the role. Remember to stay authentic, be concise, and show your enthusiasm for the job and the company. Good luck!
Team Up with a Staffing Agency That Works for You
If you’re looking for a new and exciting position in the Midwest, team up with Vernovs. We represent IT, accounting, and finance professionals like you, helping them achieve career goals by matching them with critical projects and dynamic jobs in Ohio and beyond. Whether you are looking for full-time, consulting, or contract opportunities, contact us to learn more.
