Modern-day job applications require modern-day introductions. And a unique cover letter is just the solution. A well-written cover letter is just as important as your resume, if not more so. First things first, a cover letter is not a reiteration of your resume, rather, a personal introduction to showcase your personality to mark a positive first impression on the employer. But, more often than not, cover letters end up being boring and bland for the employers to read. So, here are a few tricks and tips to make sure that your cover letter sits on the top of the pile!
1. Forget Online Templates and the Formats Learnt in School
There are myriad templates and pre-written cover letters available on the internet that require only minor tweaks and changes. Although to catch the employer’s eye, one needs to write a custom cover letter for each job application. Of course, this means more time and effort, but for an employer who reads tens and hundreds of cover letters on a daily basis, a unique cover letter displays hard work and hence, increases the chance of getting call back for an interview!
2. Cover Letter is Not a Resume
A cover letter is not meant to lay out the facts mentioned in the resume. It’s the first establishment of your personality to the employer which is why it’s imperative that the employer’s judgement is in your favour. The cover letter should depict personal anecdotes and skills to show why you are right for the position.
3. Read and Research About Your Aspirations at the Company
Adhering to the position and job in question is crucial to any application. Research about the company and incorporate tiny details about the same in your cover letter. Moreover, include why you want to work at the said company and how your skills make you the perfect fit. Doing so will not only convey your diligence but also about the seriousness of the position.
4. Only Include What is Necessary
A cover letter is not a short story about your life. Employers receive several applications every day and going through long letters prove to be a tedious and dull task. Don’t make your letter too wordy by using overused phrases and praises for the company. Instead, cut the clutter by incorporating the necessary skills for the job. Brevity is the key!
5. Illustrate a Solution, Not its Problem
Before deciding which work problem and solution to include in the cover letter, it is critical to fully comprehend the available position. It can be helpful to first write down the key skills required for the job and then electing the issue experienced. You can elaborate on tasks taken up during college activities and extracurricular events. This will depict the possession of the required skillsets and also give a personal touch!
6. Read, Reread and Read Again
Presentation and grammatical errors can make or break your application. Proper formatting and punctuations are as significant as any other element of the cover letter. Keep an eye out for factual mistakes, common punctuation errors and spelling mistakes. If needed, ask a friend to proofread the letter. A new eye can catch mistakes more easily. Additionally, you can choose from the various software available online to make sure no red underlines are hovering in your letter.
7. End with a Proper Signature
In traditional cover letters, contact and signature would be written on top of the page. However, cover letters sent via email require a different route. It’s mentioned at the very end. Make sure to type your name correctly and mention your current designation along with the contact number below the name in different lines. Avoid using any postscripts.
Freshers, especially, should be well read, should do thorough research, and draft a powerful cover letter to depict their profile. After all, a cover letter is the first formal introduction of your personality to the professional world. It needs to showcase your passion, hard work, and the desire to make an impact.
