What Is A Cover Letter?
A cover letter is a document that is submitted along with a resume or job application to provide additional information about the applicant’s qualifications, skills, and experience. It is an opportunity for the applicant to showcase their personality, explain why they are interested in the position, and demonstrate why they are a good fit for the company.
A well-written cover letter can make a big difference in a job application. It can grab the attention of the hiring manager and set the applicant apart from other candidates. In this blog post, we will discuss the purpose of a cover letter, what to include in a cover letter, and tips for writing an effective cover letter.
The Purpose of the Document
The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce yourself to the hiring manager and explain why you are interested in the position. It should provide additional information about your qualifications, skills, and experience that are not included in your resume. A cover letter should be tailored to the specific job you are applying for and should demonstrate your enthusiasm and passion for the position.
A well-written cover letter can also help you stand out from other candidates. It can provide insight into your personality and work ethic, and show the hiring manager that you have taken the time to research the company and the position.
What to Include
Your Contact Information: Include your name, address, phone number, and email address at the top of your cover letter. This makes it easy for the hiring manager to contact you.
The Hiring Manager’s Contact Information: Address your cover letter to the hiring manager by name. If you don’t know the name of the hiring manager, you can address the letter to “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear [Company Name] Hiring Manager.”
Introduction: Begin your cover letter with a strong opening statement that grabs the hiring manager’s attention. You can start with a personal story, a quote, or a statement about your passion for the position.
Body: The body of your cover letter should explain why you are interested in the position and what makes you a good fit for the company. Use specific examples of your skills and experience to demonstrate your qualifications. Research the company and the position to show that you understand the company’s values and goals.
Closing: End your cover letter with a strong closing statement that reiterates your interest in the position and thanks the hiring manager for considering your application. Include a call-to-action, such as requesting an interview or asking for a follow-up call.
Tips for Writing a Cover Letter
Tailor your cover letter to the specific job you are applying for. Research the company and the position to understand the company’s values and goals.
Use a professional tone and language. Avoid using slang or informal language.
Keep your cover letter concise and focused. Use bullet points or short paragraphs to highlight your qualifications.
Use specific examples of your skills and experience to demonstrate your qualifications.
Proofread your cover letter carefully. Check for spelling and grammar errors and ensure that your contact information is correct.
Use keywords from the job description in your cover letter. This can help your application get noticed by the applicant tracking system.
Customize your cover letter for each job application. Avoid using a generic cover letter for every job you apply for.
Check out our article on how to write a cover letter.
In conclusion, a cover letter is an important part of a job application. It is an opportunity to showcase your personality, explain why you are interested in the position, and demonstrate why you are a good fit for the company. By following these tips and including the right information in your cover letter, you can increase your chances of getting noticed by the hiring manager and securing an interview.
If you are struggling with creating a cover letter, check out our Customized Cover Letter or contact us today for a customized approach.