5 Tips to Write a Compelling Cover Letter
Do you include a cover letter when you apply for a job? If the answer is no, now is the time to start. Yes, it is additional work. Cover letters require you to come across as attractive, yet objective to potential employers. So the process of writing one involves a lot of self-reflection. This can be uncomfortable for a lot of people. But this letter is your chance to stand out from the crowd. In fact, submitting an effective cover letter may be the deciding factor for a recruiter to recommend you to companies. Now we’re not going to lie – writing a cover letter is a challenge. Many people struggle – especially if they have never written one before. So, we put together our top 5 tips to help.
1. Start a cover letter with a strong opening
Many cover letters begin with “I am applying for X job from Y advertisement. This is generic and quite boring. Recruiters read tons of these letters every week. And they are more likely to proceed with jobseekers if their cover letters set them apart. Be direct and passionate in your opening sentence. Express your desire for the job, and detail exactly what you bring to the table. Don’t try to be funny, but do convey excitement and enthusiasm for the Company and the role.
2. Be authentic
Expressing excitement is necessary. However, do not go overboard. And never say anything you don’t mean. Like how good you are at doing tasks you have never done before. Or how much you love something you can’t stand. Authenticity is everything.
3. Don’t rehash your CV
A good CV details your job experience, level of education, and skills. So, there is no need to rehash all of this information within a cover letter. Instead, use it as an opportunity to express where you want to go. Focus on the future – and how attaining this position will propel you towards your goals.
4. Briefly demonstrate relevant skills
Every job requires different skills. Pick two skills relevant to the position you are applying for. Then include brief examples that demonstrate your use of these skills. Providing this information will show the recruiter that you are more than capable of thriving in various positions.
5. Keep your cover letter short
Yes, a good cover letter requires a lot of information. However, presenting this information in a brief and clearly expressed manner is imperative. So the recipient is able to read it at a glance. Therefore, it should consist of 3 short paragraphs at most. With only 2 – 3 sentences within each paragraph. It may take a few attempts to cut a cover letter down to this length. However, it is worth it. As recruiters are not able to read anything longer. They simply do not have the time.
Need help with your CV?
Many people find writing a CV to be a difficult task. And we agree. If you need any help with writing your CV, why not head over to our blog post and follow our top tips?
