Five Key Steps to Writing a Great Cover Letter
While not all organizations require a cover letter, it is crucial in establishing your experience, background, and talents as an applicant.
It also demonstrates to the company that you are genuinely interested in the position.
Many people believe that their cover letters are never read by employers.
This is a misconception, as they actually exist and are a vital element of your application.
Including your resume and cover letter in your application has never been a terrible idea; in fact, it helps your application stand out.
For some people, writing a cover letter has always been a challenge. In this article, I’ll walk you through some of the steps of writing a fantastic cover letter.
What is a cover letter?
A cover letter, also known as an application or covering letter, is a one-page document containing three to four paragraphs that is normally a one-page document.
It describes and presents you as a job seeker, as well as how you fit into the position.
When applying for a job, this one-page paper is normally submitted together with your résumé.
It’s where you describe your personality, abilities, accomplishments, and life experiences.
You should also go into further depth regarding your professional background.
When applying for a job, submitting a cover letter is still quite crucial.
It has the power to distinguish you from other applicants while also impressing your potential employers. However, before you start writing a cover letter, do some research on the firm and the position you’re applying for.
Structure of a cover letter
A cover letter should be formatted in such a way that it appears to be a business letter, and it should include the following information:
1. Introduction
This is the first paragraph of your letter, and it should be able to capture the reader’s or employer’s attention. Also include a statement about why you desire the position.
2. Body
A cover letter’s body should be no more than three to four paragraphs long. This is where you describe your educational background, talents, accomplishments, and professional experiences. In the body of the letter, you additionally explain why you should be hired for the job.
3. Call to Action
At the end of your cover letter, you should include a call to action. In this part, restate why you should be recruited for the job.
Five Key Steps to Writing a Great Cover Letter
1. Begin with a header
This is where you list your contact and personal information, such as your name, city, phone number, and email address. You should also provide the application date, the recipient’s name, the company’s name, and the address.
2. Include the hiring manager’s name
A cover letter should be addressed directly to the reader or management. It demonstrates that you are interested in the positions and have done some background research on the firm. When you use greetings like “Dear Sir” or “To whoever it may concern,” it’s a sign that you’re spamming businesses with similar letters. There are different greeting types to use if you can’t discover the recruiting manager’s name, such as “Dear Hiring Manager.”
3. Begin with a strong paragraph
This is where you describe the job title and how you learned about the job opening. Tell them about some of your significant job-related accomplishments; this will help you stand out. In the first paragraph, try to convey your enthusiasm for the company.
4. Explain why you are the best candidate for the job
It’s also known as the second paragraph. It primarily focuses on informing the hiring manager of your significant abilities, expertise, and accomplishments. By doing so, you are presenting yourself to the company as the most qualified candidate for employment. If possible, back up some of your claims with evidence and be honest in your writing.
5. Sign off with a final paragraph
Your final paragraph should exude confidence, politeness, and a positive image of you as the best candidate for the job. Other essential information can still be included in this paragraph. Thank the recruiting manager and include a call to action in your thank you letter. After this paragraph, you must conclude with a phrase like “Best regards,” “Goodbye,” or “Thank You.”