Job seekers need cover letters for their application. Aside from serving as companion piece to the resume, an attention-grabbing cover letter gives applicants the chance to introduce themselves in a way their portfolios could not. Hence, cover letter writing tips are just as important as the pointers to create a winning resume.
Recruiters spend little time to review all the resumes. Thus, your cover letter should convince them of your worth as the candidate best fit for the job.
The Importance of Cover Letter
The purpose of a cover letter is not only to help recruiters get a feel of the job seeker’s character. It also allows them to assess the candidate’s writing and communication skills. Though some applicants might possess the skills required for the job, whether or not they land the job might hinge on one expertise: how to write a cover letter.
Cover Letter Writing Tips for a Successful Job Hunt
What makes a good cover letter?, you might ask. Here are four practical cover letter tips to help you with your search—and land the job.
1. Do your research.
Keep in mind that no companies are the same. This means your cover letter’s contents should cater to a specific company’s needs. To do this, find out about the company and the job first. Research its culture. What does it stand for? Are its mission and vision in line with your values and commitment? Does it reward hard work and innovation? Advance research not only gives you the insight to personalize your letter; it also allows you to assess whether you can fit right in.
One of the cover letter writing tips is preparation. This helps you avoid citing details already found on your resume. Keep in mind that your cover letter is distinct from your resume and serves a different purpose. Whereas the resume shows your expertise, the cover letter should explain why and how you acquired those skills.
2. Customize your cover letter.
Once you’ve done your research, tailor your letter. If you want to leave a good impression, personalize your cover letter. For example, make sure your letter includes specific experience and skills relevant to the job post you are applying for. Your goal is to show the employer how you can be a perfect fit to their team. Another way is to use keywords and phrases related to the job.
Salutation is also important in cover letter writing. Research and preparation go hand in hand with customizing your cover letter, so it’s vital to know to whom you are addressing the letter.
3. Emphasize your value offer.
Did you increase traffic to a website by revising its layout? Did you reduce customer complaints after fixing an error in the program? How much did the company save due to your inputs? Quantify your success. Whenever you can, provide concrete figures. Keep in mind that your audience is interested in how you can add to their company’s success, and being specific helps with that.
One way of focusing on your value offer is by using bullet points. These signal your readers that those items are keys to your success, and that you intend to add on to them. Bullet points help employers see how your skills and experiences make you a good fit for the position. In addition, they make the cover letter easier to read.
4. Edit—and edit some more.
In this cutthroat job market, sloppy writing can hurt your chances of getting an interview. So, review your letter thoroughly before sending it. Check for errors in spelling, grammar, and punctuations. Double-check to avoid format inconsistencies. Finally, ask someone else to read and edit your letter. You may also seek help from professional resume writers to help you ensure the quality of your letter.
Cover Letter Tips: Knowing When You’ve Done It Right
A good cover letter catches the employers’ attention, and moves them to read your resume. It should be tailored, written and formatted well, and free of grammar mistakes. Lastly, your letter should be clear about your goals and objectives. After all, a resume won’t serve its purpose if the recruiter reads your cover letter and ends up unsure of how you will fit in to their team.
Once you’ve taken note of the resume as well as cover letter writing tips, what next? It’s time to commence your job search. Let us help you with your job hunt by signing up on JobTalkUSA and browsing our job listings today!
