Consider These 5 Tips for an Awesome Cover Letter

Nancy Anderson
Posted by in Career Advice •


The myth that the cover letter is dead is just that — a myth. Employers seek more information about candidates to make informed decisions when choosing applicants to interview. Stand out from the competition during the job search by crafting an awesome letter that sells your skills, experience and personality so you are the first one called in to interview for the job.

Focus on the Company

Include information in your cover letter that shows you have researched the company. Employers want to know why you want to work for the organization, according to Heather Huhman with GlassDoor. Provide details about what you admire about the business goals and mission while describing how your values and work ethic are in line with what the company stands for in the industry.

Mirror the Job Description

Compare your skills and experience to the desired traits listed in the job description. Show that you are proficient in software and hardware programs the company utilizes on a daily basis. Detail your experience that is in line with what the company is seeking in a job candidate. Leave no doubt in the hiring manager's mind that you are the best fit for the position when writing your cover letter.

Be Honest

Avoid deceiving employers just to get an interview. Provide honest details about your experience and skills. Candidates who lack the skills desired for the job can provide information on how they plan to gain proficiency in these areas. Show that you are willing to gain more knowledge or education to meet the requirements of the job, and succeed while working for the company.

Use Creative Language

Hiring managers read through countless letters and often find that candidates use the same terms and language. Be creative and stand out from the competition by using a thesaurus during your job search to describe your experience. Word variations used in a cover letter can also help the letter flow well. Proofread carefully so you are using terms in the correct context.

Ask for an Interview

Conclude the cover letter by requesting an interview. Show that you are confident in your skills by noting when you are available and how eager you are to begin working for the company. Thank the employer for his time and note that you are looking forward to joining the team. Confidence is key when closing the letter.

Hiring managers can easily spot a template or form letter when reviewing application materials. Stand out from the competition by customizing your cover letter for each position and organization. Get creative with your language and craft an opening statement that captures interest and engages the employer. Go above and beyond when compiling the information necessary for your cover letter; you may soon see yourself as part of the organization's team.


Photo Courtesy of David Castillo Dominici at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

 
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  • Jennifer L.
    Jennifer L. •

    Good message.

  • Emery Y.
    Emery Y. •

    good

  • Nancy Anderson
    Nancy Anderson •

    @Vanessa many people will say that cover letters are old-fashioned, etc. But employers don't agree. Typically it will be your cover letter that the hiring manager sees first so really make it count. Short (about three paragraphs or so) and to the point. The cover letter is about them, not about you. Best of luck in your search.

  • Vanessa L. J.
    Vanessa L. J. •

    Thank you for explaining that cover letters are important. I am an older worker who resigned a job due to health issues and have not been able to regain employment thus far.

  • Charisse W.
    Charisse W. •

    Thank you for the added boost in the fact that a cover letter is a must. Glad that I am still doing them and absolutely tailor it to the specific position being applied for and requirements associated with that particular post

  • George H.
    George H. •

    Thank you for the added boost in the fact that a cover letter is a must. Glad that I am still doing them and absolutely tailor it to the specific position being applied for and requirements associated with that particular post.

  • George H.
    George H. •

    Thank you for the added boost in the fact that a cover letter is a must. Glad that I am still doing them and absolutely tailor it to the specific position being applied for and requirements associated with that particular post.

  • Carmen B.
    Carmen B. •

    Thank s for the advice on cover letters. But I did do it in college and it help me on practices with cover letters.

  • Nancy Anderson
    Nancy Anderson •

    @None thanks for your comment. Many job seekers feel that the cover letter is antiquated. However, companies don't feel the same way. If you don't send a cover letter, you could be disqualified right from the start. I always recommend to job seekers that they err on the side of caution. Send that cover letter. Just make sure that you take your time and craft an appropriate cover letter for the position.

  • None None
    None None •

    The cover letter is antiquated and only used to determine if you have the ability to communicate.

  • Nancy Anderson
    Nancy Anderson •

    @Lynez don't fear the cover letter. It is simply a way to show a company how you could benefit them. Your resume is all about you but the cover letter should be all about what you can do for them so that it's all about them. Hope this helps. And don't be afraid to find some sample cover letters on the Internet and use them as a guide to write your own. Best of luck.

  • Lynez P.
    Lynez P. •

    I need to make me a cover so I can send out with my resume

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