Imagine finally getting the job of your dreams after an interview that went great. Now imagine somebody reading a few sentences of your resume and throwing it right into the bin. That’s exactly what a good and bad cover letter can do to your career. Of course, a cover letter is not always so important, but quite often, it can make or break your employment.
Therefore, there’s no surprise that many people have a hard time trying to write their cover letters. Where should you start? What you should or shouldn’t mention? How to make the best impression possible?
Writing a cover letter is a tricky task because it serves multiple purposes. At the same time, you only have a limited number of words so you must make sure that everything you write serves a particular purpose. First, you need to attract attention. You should also try to make your cover letter impressive so that the person who will read it will want to contact you and continue the conversation in person.
“A cover letter has a lot in common with a sales pitch because you should introduce yourself, explain how hiring you can benefit the organization, and motivate the reader to learn more about you,” explains Roger Greer, a ghostwriter who works with MBA application writing companies. Roger authored dozens of MBA application essays and cover letters.
Quite often, people who need to write a cover letter have no experience in this sort of writing so the task becomes even more challenging. However, if you know where to start and what to include in your cover letter, this task will become much easier. Here is a quick guide that will help you get started.
Writing a Cover Letter
- Start with a subject line and make sure to specify what position you’re applying for. Your readers should immediately understand what job you’re looking for because otherwise, they won’t waste their time.
- Don’t start your cover letter with “Dear Mr./Ms.” if you don’t know exactly who will read your cover letter because in this case, you will need to address a specific person. Addressing a specific person is only a good option if you know who you’re writing to. Therefore, you may do some research and try to find out who will likely read the letter. Addressing your reader by their name will help you demonstrate that you take this application seriously.
- Explain why you’re the best candidate for the chosen position. Highlight your strongest skills that can make you useful in this job. In this part of your cover letter, you should be as specific and clear as possible. Keep in mind that you should provide your readers with information that will help them evaluate you, so don’t mention any irrelevant details, and don’t make your cover letter sound emotional. Think of why your readers might want to invite you for an interview.
- The main section of your cover letter should depend on your skills. Explain what contribution you can make based on your resume. However, don’t rewrite your resume word for word. Emphasize your main achievements and explain how exactly you can use your experience. Focus on the most important things so that your readers will want to learn more about you. Try not to make this section longer than one paragraph.
- In the next paragraph, tell your readers why you’ve chosen this company and why you want this job. Do your research to demonstrate that you know a lot about the company, and let your readers know how you can contribute to the company’s goals.
- Your cover letter should also have a well-written conclusion. Summarize your argument and remind your readers that they can meet you in person and learn more. Include your contact information and remind them about your resume. Don’t forget to thank your readers for considering you.
- If your resume is available online, make sure to include relevant keywords. We recommend that you choose keywords related to the job description. This way, it will be much easier for managers to find you.
- Your cover letter must be concise and clear. You may feel tempted to demonstrate your outstanding writing skills, but a cover letter is certainly not the best place to do it. Keep it straightforward and avoid any unnecessary words and phrases. Get right to the point and make sure that your cover letter is easy to read. Keep in mind that those who will read it are busy, and you don’t want to waste their time.
Wrapping Up
A cover letter can make or break your job application so we recommend that you approach writing it carefully. Follow our simple guide, and make sure that your cover letter is informative, easy to read, and impressive. You need to stand out, and your cover letter gives you an opportunity to explain why you’re the best candidate. Make sure to back your claims with real facts from your resume, and believe in yourself!
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