5 Quick tips for writing a cover letter with maximum impact.

How can you ensure your cover letter a) stands out enough to get noticed among the competition, and b) has enough impact to ensure your CV gets a proper look over? Read on for some quick tips you can implement right away.

5 Quick tips for writing a cover letter with maximum impact.

How can you ensure your cover letter a) stands out enough to get noticed among the competition, and b) has enough impact to ensure your CV gets a proper look over? Read on for some quick tips you can implement right away.

1. Use personalisation.

Avoid using impersonal greetings like ‘Dear Sir’ or ‘Dear Madam’. Especially avoid ‘To whom it may concern’, an old school phrase that’s all too stuffy and formal.

In these digital times we live in, it’s fairly easy to find out the name of the hiring manager at a company. Do a little research on LinkedIn or even call the company’s receptionist to find out the name of the person that will be deciding who to hire. Addressing the hiring manager by name will help your cover letter get noticed right away.

2. Be genuine.

Think of your cover letter as a way to build rapport with the hiring manager. Explain why you want to work for the company – and give genuine reasons. Avoid vague phrases like ‘I want to be part of a well-established organisation that values career progression’. That might well be true, but it’s an overused statement that recruiters are used to reading.

Instead, consider what really inspires you to apply for the role. Maybe it’s because you resonate with the company’s ethics (if so, explain why). Perhaps it’s because the business was started from nothing by an entrepreneur with a talent for perseverance; a talent which you admire.

Your cover letter has more chance of standing out if you come across as a real person, with real thoughts and feelings.

3. Show value.

It’s crucial to get across some of your best attributes in your cover letter. But rather than regurgitating your CV, use a couple of examples to demonstrate how you’ll add value, based on the requirements of the job description. You can direct the hiring manager to read your CV for evidence of your achievements, rather like a call-to-action.

4. Be open to other opportunities.

The hiring manager may be on the lookout for suitable candidates to fill different positions in the company. It may well be that they think you could be perfect for another role and not the one you’ve applied for.

Give yourself a chance to be considered for all relevant job vacancies, by including a sentence to this effect. Something like, ‘I hope you feel I’m a strong candidate for this position, or any others you think might be appropriate.’

5. Keep it brief.

Finally, pay attention to the length of your cover letter. Recruiters often have to sift through hundreds of applications, all relating to the same job vacancy. A long cover letter may not be read in its entirety, and this decreases the chances of your letter having the impact that it deserves.

Make your cover letter concise and break it down into clear sections, such as:

  • Intro – explain in one sentence your reason for writing and confirm which job you’re applying for.
  • Main body copy – use this section to shine, with evidence-based points that show your understanding of the company, the role itself, and how you can add value.
  • Close – end on a high note that shows enthusiasm and character. For instance, you could include something like, I’m excited to learn more about this position. Thank you for taking the time to read my application.’ This kind of closing sentence is respectful, complimentary and shows that you’re passionate about the job advertised.

Bonus tip! If you’re emailing your cover letter, don’t send it as an attachment. Include it in the main body of the email so the hiring manager can’t help but see it.

Cover letter writing tips – key takeaways.

When you apply for a job, you should adapt your cover letter so that it’s relevant to the particular company and position that you’re interested in. Don’t send the same cover letter to different employers; recruiters can tell if you’ve done your homework and if you’re genuinely keen, or not.

Keep your cover letter brief, clear and make it personal. Show off your skills and experience by demonstrating the value you can bring to the organisation. Avoid repeating information that’s contained in your CV. An original, well-thought-out cover letter can help to build intrigue and may even be the deciding factor in whether or not you land an interview.

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