While your resume is important, the cover letter is in many ways the first impression you make on an employer. The cover letter’s content, style, and overall structure is usually reviewed closely by the hiring manager. Therefore, it’s important for candidates to take them seriously.
Often candidates are hesitant in what they should say in their cover letter. Should it be short or long? What should you say exactly? It’s important to not overthink the process, realizing that it is simply a quick synopsis of who you are and why you are the best candidate for the job.
With a well-written, standout cover letter, you will open the door for that first interview. However, if it is less than stellar, that door never opens and you will never get the chance to prove to them why you are the best candidate for the job. Here are a few tips to make sure you earn that first interview by writing a strong cover letter:
Make Sure Your Cover Letter is Specific for the Job
Do not use the same cover letter for each job you apply for. The last thing you want hiring managers to think is that you simply replaced the company name and job title from the last cover letter you wrote. Make the letter personal by stating specifically why you would be a great fit for the job. Include values of the company that align with yours or how your past experiences will help you with specific requirements of the new job.
Start off with a Neutral Address
Realize that the hiring manager may not be the only person reading your cover letter. Make your opening address as neutral as possible. “To Whom It May Concern” is a wonderful way to have it appeal to anyone reviewing it. If this feels to impersonal use “Dear Hiring Manager.” Either one will work well and have your letter off to a good start.
Have Your Cover Letter Be Different from Your Resume
Do not take the content of your resume and put it into two paragraphs; that’s what your resume is for. Instead, take the two or three traits from your resume that will translate well into the new job and expand on those. Talk about specific experiences that led you to obtain those special trait or skills and how those experiences will help you perform in the new position.
Show Them Your Personality
The cover letter is your first chance to do this. Use the letter as a platform to get a little creative and show them the side of you that may not be reflected in your resume. Obviously, you need to keep it professional, but use this as your chance to display your creativity.
Have Yourself and a Friend Review for Spelling and Grammatical Errors
Your cover letter and resume, in many ways, are the first pieces of work your hiring manager will see from you. This is highly important, especially if the job will require you to do a lot of writing. The last thing you want the hiring manager to think right of the bat is that you’re careless about the work you put out. Reread your cover letter carefully and have a friend or two look over it to make sure you didn’t miss anything.