Including a cover letter for every position you apply for is crucial. It outlines to the hiring managers or recruitment agency who you are, what your experience is, and how your skill set will fit into the company. It also shows how much effort has been put into applying and not just sending off applications to random positions. Most people usually briefly skim applicants resumes, whereas including a detailed cover letter will show exactly how you will be an added value to the organisation.
Here are 5 steps you can follow when next writing a cover letter (including template) to help you with your next application.
Addressing the letter to the right person is the best way to start off rather than “To whom it may concern”, or “Dear Sir/Madam/Hiring Manager”. If you are unsure of who to address the letter to, you can do a search on LinkedIn or on the company’s website to find out who is the hiring manager you are writing to.
Why are you applying for this position? Keep your opening line simple and straightforward to the point. State why you’re writing this letter, the exact position you’re applying for, and how you found the job listing.
Writing a cover letter is your chance to introduce yourself and why you are the right fit for both the job and the company. Don’t use this as an essay form of your resume or to waffle on. Keep it short, simple, enthusiastic and straight to the point.
There is no need to sound too formal. Be confident and list your relevant experience and skills. Even if you may not have relevant experience, list why you are exactly interested in the role and why you may have the background to fit the required skills set. The cover letter is also an excellent example that demonstrates your written and communication skills.
When closing the letter make sure you have:
Be consistent with formatting. Try to keep the cover letter to one page, and use the same font and size as your resume. Make sure the text is translated correctly if saving to PDF format.
NAME
ADDRESS
CONTACT NUMBER
DATE
HIRING MANAGERS NAME AND TITLE
COMPANY
ADDRESS
Expression of Interest, JOB TITLE
The first paragraph needs to introduce yourself. Who you are, what you expertise is, where you found the role listed and why you want to apply for this particular role.
In the second paragraph you need to describe your previous job experience, skill set, and how they will fit in to the job’s requirements. Make sure you include key words from the job listing so that your application will make it through the filtering process.
To stand out even more, include some research you’ve done about the company. Why exactly do you want to work there and how will you be an asset for them? Find out what they’re about and what they are working towards. Show interest in the company’s values and how you will be able to fit in and help achieve their goals.
Final paragraph, reiterate your interest and hope to hear from them soon. Thank the reader for taking time to read through your cover letter and resume.
Sign off formally with your full name and contact number.
