A cover letter is a job search essential, but what is it and what does it do? A cover letter serves as a cover sheet for your resume, and it also provides you with an opportunity to introduce yourself to the potential employer. The cover letter should be well-written, concise, and to the point. It should highlight your qualifications and express your interest in the position. It is a way to show off your writing skills, highlight your accomplishments, and explain why you are the perfect candidate for the job.
What purpose does a cover letter serve?
As a job seeker, you know that the competition is tough. Your cover letter is your chance to stand out from the crowd and show a potential employer why you are the perfect candidate for the job. This document is your opportunity to sell yourself, and to demonstrate why you have the skills and qualities that they are looking for. A cover letter should be well-written, positive, and specific to the job that you are applying for. It should be free of errors and should give the reader a clear idea of who you are and what you can offer. Take the time to craft a great cover letter, and you will increase your chances of getting called in for an interview.
How to write a cover letter that will stand out
To make your cover letter stand out, you need to do more than just list your skills and experiences. You also need to show that you understand the company and the position you’re applying for. One way to do this is by tailoring your cover letter specifically for each job opening. Start by reading the job description carefully and highlighting the keywords that are mentioned. Then, use those keywords throughout your cover letter to show that you understand what the company is looking for.
Another way to make your cover letter stand out is by using a different format or layout than what most people send. For example, if everyone else sends a one-page cover letter, try sending a two-page cover letter instead. Or, if everyone else uses a standard font like Times New Roman, try something different like Arial or Calibri. Whatever approach you take, just be sure to avoid common mistakes like typos and grammatical errors. If your cover letter is riddled with mistakes, it will likely end up in the trash can instead of in front of a hiring manager.
The different types of cover letters you can use
A cover letter is a letter that you send along with your resume when you apply for a job. The purpose of the cover letter is to introduce yourself and explain why you are qualified for the position. Cover letters can take many different forms, but there are three main types:
- Generic Cover Letter: A generic cover letter is an in-effective document that you can be used for hundreds of job applications, however, they are extremely vague. The cover letter is a short introduction, outlining your qualifications and recent experience. It will be addressed to the Hiring Manager and have no position title or company details.
- Tailored cover letter letters: Tailored letters are much more effective and written in response to a specific job opening. In this type of cover letter, you will explain why you are interested in the position and how your qualifications fit the job requirements.
- Expressions of interest: An expression of interest letter is a letter that you write to a company that you would like to work for. In the letter, you express your interest in the company and explain why you would be a good fit. The expression of interest letter is a way to introduce yourself to the company and make a first impression.
- Cold-prospecting letters: Cold-prospecting letters are sent to employers even when there is not a specific job opening. In these letters, you introduce yourself and express your interest in working for the company.
Regardless of which type of cover letter you use; it is important to tailor your letter to each individual employer. A generic cover letter will not make a good impression. Instead, take the time to learn about the company and what they are looking for in a candidate. With a little effort, you can write a cover letter that will help you stand out from the crowd.
How to format your cover letter correctly
Assuming you have a cover letter that will wow a potential employer, you need to make sure you format it correctly so that your hard work doesn’t go to waste. The first step is to include your contact information at the top of the page, including your:
- Name
- Phone number
- Email address
- Date
Below that, include the contact information for the employer (if you have it). Start the actual body of the letter with a greeting (e.g., “Dear Hiring Manager”).
The next few paragraphs will be where you sell yourself and explain why you would be a great fit for the position. Be sure to tailor these paragraphs to each specific job you apply for.
Finally, end with a courteous closing (e.g., “Sincerely”) and your signature.
With a correctly formatted cover letter, you’re one step closer to landing your dream job!
Sample cover letters for inspiration
As you begin to search for jobs, you may be wondering how to make your cover letter stand out from the crowd. After all, with so many qualified candidates vying for each position, it can be difficult to know how to set yourself apart. However, there are a few simple tricks that can help. Here are a couple of cover letter examples that can help give you inspiration:
Administration and Customer Service Cover Letter Example
Dear Hiring Manager,
Re: [Insert position title] opportunity
Please find enclosed my application for the advertised position.
I come to your team with many years of experience in the customer service industry predominately in administrative roles. Working closely with internal teams, I use a keen eye for detail and a passion for keeping databases accurate and ordered. In doing so, I have maintained a solid work ethic and sustained good working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
Committed to providing positive outcomes for customers, I have found joy in helping customers achieve satisfaction with the services the company offers. I utilise advanced interpersonal and written and verbal communication skills, including actively listening and responding to enquiries, delivering pleasant reception services, and providing accurate information about products and services.
Throughout my career, I have developed insight into methods that enhance customer satisfaction. I am adept at providing a range of administrative and support services aligned to legislative requirements including privacy and confidentiality, record management, and written correspondence. I support effective workflow, take initiative, and undertake upskilling opportunities required to enhance my value offering.
My enclosed resume reflects my career and hope it piques your interest to shortlist me for an interview. I can be contacted at a time that is convenient at 0400 000 000 or via email at example@outlook.com
Yours sincerely,
First Last Name
Marketing and Public Relations Cover Letter Example:
[Organisation]
[Address]
[Date]
Dear Hiring Manager,
Re: [Insert position title] opportunity
As a Marketing and Public Relations Intern, I have the energy and passion which I would like to contribute to your organisation.
Throughout my studies, I have developed marketing knowledge, including an in-depth understanding of target audience behaviours, social media strategies and trending tactics. I also understand how to communicate with people in an engaging and personable manner.
Not only do I have the necessary skills and experience to contribute value to your team, I also come to you as a hard-working, positive and enthusiastic professional who is results-oriented and driven by organisational goals such as yours.
My resume has been included and reflects my experience, as such I hope it piques your interest to shortlist me for an interview. I can be contacted at your convenience at 0400 000 000 or via email on example@outlook.com
I look forward to working with you.
Kind regards
FIRST LAST NAME
Proofreading your cover letter before sending it off
Before you hit send on your next job application, take a few minutes to proofread your cover letter. Typos and grammar mistakes can give the impression that you’re careless or unprofessional, and they can quickly land your application in the reject pile. However, proofreading doesn’t have to be a tedious task. By following a few simple steps, you can quickly spot mistakes and make sure your cover letter is error-free.
- Keep it short and sweet
- Use a template
- Start with an attention grabber
- State the position you’re applying for
- Mention what draws you to the role
- Explain your relevant skills and experience
- Showcase your personality
- Thank the reader
- Check for errors
- Ask for help
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