You’ve got your resume done? Nice! Got a few jobs in mind that you’re planning to apply to? Great! Time to write that cover letter!
The cover letter is the first thing an HR or hiring manager will read when they view your submission. If it’s bad, it’s probably going in the trash!
While your resume remains the same when applying to different jobs, your cover letter should be tailored to speak directly to a specific reader.
Cover Letter | PICK A STYLE
Similar to when you go with a certain look for your resume, your cover letter should also have style.
The design of your cover letter should be simpler than your resume, but their appearance should complement each other.
If you can, use the hiring manager’s name / last name when addressing them in your cover letter. Example: “Dear Mr. Ipsum” …
Cover Letter | GET THEIR ATTENTION
If you want to keep the reader engaged, you’ve got to capture their attention right away. That’s why your opening paragraph must be captivating, or at least interesting.
Get Right to the Point!
Include a few of your most recent achievements in your opening paragraph.
Avoid generic statements like “Please consider me …” as hiring managers see this all too often.
Cover Letter | WHAT MAKES YOU A GOOD FIT?
The next few paragraphs should convince the hiring manager what makes you a good cultural fit for the company you are applying to.
Before applying for a job, research the company to make sure their core values align with yours.
Skills and experience aren’t enough! You must now show them you’ve done your research on their company and want to take part in its future.
Cover Letter | THAT’S A WRAP!
In your closing, or last paragraph, your objective is to make your case as to why the company would want to follow-up with you.
Use phrasing like “I would love to further discuss …”
In the same paragraph, thank the hiring manager for their time. Also ask them kindly to review your resume and application.
End your letter with: “Best Regards,” or “Sincerely,” then your full name.
EXAMPLE COVER LETTER TEXT:
GARY THOMPSON
123 Main Street
Greenfield, NH 03047
603-774-4173
gthompson@yahoo.com
Dear Mr. Williams,
I am writing to you today to express my interest in the XYZ position with XYZ Company. In my recent work, I helped ABC Inc develop cutting – edge materials used in the aerospace industry, which led to record-breaking company growth. I believe my recent experience and extensive knowledge in manufacturing makes me the ideal candidate for the job.
In my previous role, I was shift leader for the production department. Under my supervision, our team met every quarterly goal set forth by the board of engineers for three years straight.
During our merger with CBA Corp, I established company-wide best practices that enabled us to stay market competitive. I later became a safety manager and wrote operating procedures for the company.
Thank you for reviewing my application and resume. I am confident I can help XYZ Company make the manufacturing leap required to enter into a new era of aerospace technology.
