The job market is increasingly competitive, and with the vast majority of applications now submitted online, it’s more important than ever to make sure your covers letter stands out.
Here are 10 tips on how to do just that.
1. Keep it short and sweet.
Most employers are looking for candidates who can communicate clearly and concisely, so brevity is key when it comes to your cover letter. Stick to one or two paragraphs at most, and make sure each sentence packs a punch.
2. Use active language.
Employers are looking for go-getters, so use language that reflects that. Words like “achieved,” “created,” and “developed” will demonstrate that you’re a driven individual who gets things done.
3. Highlight your accomplishments.
Your covers letters are the perfect opportunity to showcase your achievements, whether they’re professional or personal. If you helped increase sales at your last job, for example, or led a team to success, make sure to mention it.
4. Personalize it.
One of the easiest ways to stand out from the crowd is to personalize your cover letter to the specific company you’re applying to. Taking the time to research the company and tailoring your letter accordingly shows that you’re truly interested in working there.
5. Proofread!
Last but not least, be sure to proofread your cover letter before sending it off. A few typos could be enough to make an employer question your attention to detail, so take the time to double-check for any errors.
6. Use a professional format.
Your cover letter should be formatted like a business letter, with your contact information at the top, followed by the date, the employer’s contact information, and a salutation.
7. Address the letter to a specific person.
If you can find out the name of the person who will be reading your cover letter, be sure to use it. Addressing the letter to a specific individual shows that you’re willing to go the extra mile to research the company.
8. Open with a strong hook.
Just like any good piece of writing, your cover letter should have a strong opening that grabs the reader’s attention. Start with a bang, and make sure your opening sentence is something they won’t soon forget.
9. Use concrete examples.
If you make a claim in your cover letter, be sure to back it up with specific examples. Generalities will only get you so far; employers want to see that you have hard evidence to support your claims.
10. Close with a call to action.
End your cover letter on a strong note by including a call to action. Asking for an interview or a meeting is a great way to show that you’re interested in taking the next step in the process.
By following these tips, you can be sure that your cover letter will get noticed – and help you land the job you’ve been dreaming of.
With these tips in mind, you can be sure that your cover letter will get noticed and help you land the job you want.
FAQs:
1. How long should a cover letter be?
Most employers are looking for candidates who can communicate clearly and concisely, so your cover letter should be one or two paragraphs at most.
2. What language should I use in my cover letter?
Use active language that demonstrates you are a driven individual who gets things done. Words like “achieved,” “created,” and “developed” will show that you’re an employer’s dream candidate.
3. How can I personalize my cover letter?
One way to stand out from the crowd is to research the company and tailor your letter accordingly. This shows that you’re truly interested in working for the company and that you’re willing to put in the extra effort.
4. What is the format of a cover letter?
A cover letter should be formatted like a business letter, with your contact information at the top, followed by the date, the employer’s contact information, and a salutation.
Conclusion:
By following these tips, you can be sure that your cover letter will grab an employer’s attention and help you land the job you’ve been dreaming of. Active language, specific examples, and a strong call to action are key elements of any successful cover letter.
