Easy cover letter tips and tricks

Cover letters may seem like pointless formalities to some, but they can actually be an important part of your job search and application. A well-written cover letter can help you stand out from the crowd of other candidates, especially when applying to larger companies that receive hundreds of applications each day. Read on to find out how to write the perfect cover letter in a few simple steps.

The Perfect Opening

It’s tempting to start a cover letter with your qualifications or skills, but those aren’t going to catch an employer’s attention—the perfect opening will. Instead of listing your relevant experience, mention something interesting about yourself that you have in common with a company or its mission; also, be sure to include what you can do for them specifically.

State Purpose

Briefly explain why you’re seeking employment in a specific company. Clearly state your intentions in a way that may be persuasive.

Be enthusiastic! Your passion for what you do should be obvious by how you write. You should be eager and excited to get started!

Focus on Skills

Make sure your cover letter specifically targets only relevant skills. To stand out from other applications, focus on these key strengths that set you apart from other candidates.

Don’t overcomplicate it! Even if you include years of experience that pertain to the position, your cover letter shouldn’t be longer than one page. More is not better, simplicity is key! If they want to learn more about you, they can read through your resume.

Also, try to avoid resume-speak. Instead, use action verbs that are descriptive about what you’ve accomplished.

Closing

The closing of your cover letter is as important as its opening. After all, you need to convince your reader that you’re a good fit for them. So, seal it with a bang!

Perhaps include some information about how they can reach you. The best way to do so is by providing a professional e-mail address where they can reach you. This will keep things short and sweet while simultaneously allowing them easy access to contact you in case they have any additional questions.

Finally, make sure your spelling, grammar, and formatting are perfect before hitting send! Having even one mistake on your cover letter could cost you an interview, and that’s not what we want at all!

Plus – please double, triple, quadruple check you have addressed the cover letter to the correct person and referenced the correct job. This is not the time to copy and paste.

Good luck!