CRAFTING A TAILORED COVER LETTER; YOUR KEY TO LANDING THE PERFECT JOB

It's important to get your cover letter right. It's your one opportunity to sell your skills and experience to potential employers. However, sending a generic cover letter won't cut it in today's competitive job market. To stand out and increase your chances of landing the perfect job, you need to craft a tailored cover letter that speaks directly to the company and the role you're applying for. In this blog post, we'll discuss tips for writing a tailored cover letter that sets you apart from the competition.

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is a document sent alongside your CV when applying for jobs. It acts as a personal introduction and helps to sell your application.

Cover letters are necessary as they give you the chance to explain to an employer why you're the best candidate for the job. You do this by highlighting relevant skills and experience; therefore, you should always write your cover letter with the position you're applying for in mind.

Not to be confused with personal statements for your CV, cover letters should complement your CV but not duplicate it. The consensus among recruiters when it comes to the length of these documents is the shorter the better. Typically, three to five short paragraphs, cover letters should not exceed one A4 page.

If sending electronically, put the text in the body of the email rather than as an attachment, to avoid it being detected by spam filters.

Applications should always include a cover letter unless the job advert instructs you differently.

PRO TIP

Did you know? 83% of hiring managers surveyed said they would hire a candidate who sent a strong cover letter, even if their resume wasn’t up to par.

Cover letter writing checklist

Template

• Did you choose a cover letter design that matches your resume?

Contact information

• Are your name, location, phone number and email address up to date and displayed at the top of your cover letter?

• Did you add a link to your professional portfolio or website and your current LinkedIn profile (if you have them)?

Date

• Did you add the current date at the top of your cover letter?

Company information

• Did you address your letter to the hiring manager by name and include their title, email address and the correct company address?

Salutation

• Did you greet the hiring manager, recruiter or HR associate by name or title?

• Did you use a polite but formal greeting?

Opening paragraph

• Are the first few sentences of your cover letter clear and compelling?

• Do you convey enthusiasm for the job?

Body paragraphs

• Did you effectively express how you can apply your skills, experience and achievements to the target job to help the company achieve its goals?

• Did you highlight one or two things you like about the company, such as their values or culture, and why?

Closing paragraph

• Did you thank the reader for their time?

• Did you end your cover letter with a call to action?

Sign-off

• Did you use a proper, formal closure to end your letter?

Cover Letter Tips:

• Research the Company and Role

Before you start writing your cover letter, take the time to research the company and the specific job you're applying for. Visit the company's website, read recent news articles, and familiarize yourself with their values, mission, and culture. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your genuine interest in the organization and the role.

• Address the Hiring Manager

Whenever possible, address your cover letter to the hiring manager by name. Avoid generic salutations like "To Whom It May Concern." A personalized greeting, such as "Dear Mr. Smith," shows that you've taken the time to research the company and are genuinely interested in the position.

• Start with a Strong Opening

Your cover letter's opening paragraph is your chance to grab the employer's attention. Begin with a compelling and specific statement that demonstrates your enthusiasm for the role and your understanding of the company's needs. For example, you could mention a recent achievement of the company that caught your attention.

• Highlight Your Relevant Skills and Experience

Tailor your cover letter to the specific job description. Identify the key skills and qualifications the employer is looking for, and then emphasize your own relevant experience and achievements. Use concrete examples to showcase how your skills align with the job requirements.

• Tell Your Story

Your cover letter is an opportunity to tell a compelling story about yourself. Discuss how your previous experiences, both personal and professional, have prepared you for this role. Share anecdotes that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities, work ethic, and commitment to personal and professional growth.

• Show Cultural Fit

Employers often seek candidates who not only possess the required skills but also fit well within their company culture. Use your cover letter to highlight your alignment with the company's values, mission, and work environment. Discuss your teamwork, adaptability, and interpersonal skills to demonstrate that you'd be a good fit.

• Conclude with Enthusiasm

In your closing paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Reiterate your interest and confidence in your ability to contribute to the company's success. End with a call to action, inviting the employer to reach out for further discussion.

• Edit and Proofread

A well-written cover letter is free from errors and typos. Before sending, carefully edit and proofread your document to ensure it's polished and professional. You may also want to seek feedback from a trusted friend or mentor.

A tailored cover letter is your ticket to standing out in the competitive job market. By researching the company, addressing the hiring manager by name, and emphasizing your relevant skills and experiences, you can create a cover letter that impresses potential employers. Remember, a well-crafted cover letter can be the key to unlocking the door to your dream job, so invest the time and effort it deserves.