A lot of people approach writing a cover letter with anxiety and end up writing shallow and uninspiring cover letters. Your cover letter is not supposed to be boring, it is supposed to catch the reader’s attention and make them eager to know you more. A cover letter is usually attached to the curriculum vitae (CV) to enable you to express your enthusiasm for the job you are applying for. It is your one opportunity to tell your potential employer about yourself and what you bring to the table.
You can talk about the challenges you and your colleagues faced at your previous work and how you were able to solve them using the special skills you have honed. You can talk about your ability to focus on tasks, how you pay attention to details, and how you hope to use your skills for the benefit of the company.
Talking about your skills on your cover letter does not mean it has to be shabby or boring. You will be taken seriously if your cover letter is well-structured and to the point. “So how do I write the perfect cover letter?” This must be the question on your mind after reading this. We will walk you through the process of writing a convincing and effective cover letter that will help you land the job you have been dreaming of. Read this piece to learn more about writing a cover letter for your dream job.
Writing A Perfect Cover Letter: The Structure
Think of a cover letter as a formal letter. These letters follow a certain structure, this structure helps you flow from point to point without repeating yourself or scrambling details. See the structure for a cover letter below:-
- Header: The header comes first, this part will feature your name, address, email, and phone number. You will also write the employer’s contact information(address) in this section. Remember to include the date the cover letter was written.
- Salutation: Start by acknowledging the hiring manager. You can use their name or “Dear Hiring Manger” if you do not know their name.
- Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself and mention the position you are applying for and how you came across the job advert. Talk briefly about why you are interested in the role.
- Body Paragraph(s): In this section, you must talk about the skills and experience that make you a good fit for the job. Give examples of how you used your skills to solve a challenge or to land a deal for your previous company. If you have notable achievements or qualifications, this is the best time to mention them.
- Connection to the Company: Explain why you are enthusiastic about working for the company and how the company’s policies align with your goals and aspirations.
- Closing: Express your enthusiasm for the position you are applying for. Mention that you have attached your resume/CV and other documents that can attest to your skills and qualifications. State that you are available for interviews and further discussion. Lastly, thank the hiring manager for their time and kind consideration.
- Signature: Use a formal closing like “Sincerely”, append your signature if you are sending a hard copy then write your full name beneath the signature.
How To Write A Good Cover Letter For A Job: Sample
Your Name,
Your Address,
City, State, ZIP Code,
Your Email,
Your Phone Number,
Date
Hiring Manager’s Name,
Company Name,
Company Address,
City, State, ZIP Code,
Dear (Hiring Manager’s Name),
I am writing to express my interest in the (position) at (Company Name) as advertised on (where you found the job posting). I have (number) years of experience in ( field or industry), and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team.
In my previous role at (Previous Company), I (describe an accomplishment or responsibility that is relevant to the job you are applying for). This experience has equipped me with the skills necessary to (mention how your skills match the job requirements).
I am particularly drawn to (Company Name) because of (mention something specific about the company that you admire or connect with). I believe that my values and goals align well with your company’s mission, and I am eager to bring my expertise to your team.
Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume for your review. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can be reached at (your phone number) or via email at (your email). I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and certifications will be beneficial to (Company Name).
Sincerely,
(Your Name)
This is a sample to give you an idea of what your cover letter should look like if you follow the structure we have provided.
Ace Cover Letter Writing With These Few Tips!
A cover letter helps employers see you as more than just your résumé. Managers want to hire someone easy to work with, communicates well, and complements their team. Your cover letter should highlight these traits, not just your job history.
- Avoid summarizing your résumé in your cover letter. Instead, use the cover letter to highlight aspects that aren’t evident from your résumé but make you a great fit for the job.
- You don’t need a creative opening. Simple and direct lines like “I’m applying for your X position” work well.
- Instead of declaring you have certain skills, demonstrate them with specific examples and accomplishments.
- Use your cover letter to explain anything unusual about your application, like being overqualified or applying for a job in a different field.
- A cover letter with a warm, conversational tone is more effective. Show some personality and keep it engaging.
- Customize your cover letter for each job.
- If you can’t easily find the hiring manager’s name, using “Dear Hiring Manager” is fine.
- A cover letter should be concise and to the point. Aim for around one page to ensure it’s comprehensive but not overwhelming.
- Focus on the content of your cover letter. While it should be well-written and proofread, don’t worry too much about minor details like whether to attach it or put it in the email body.
