In a previous post I explored how to ensure recruiters ‘swipe right‘ to your CV. This week I’m focusing on how to make your cover letter irresistible.
Whilst your CV tells your work story so far, your cover letter is an opportunity to engage hearts as well as minds. It needs to convey why you want the job. It should highlight your potential to do the job. It’s an opportunity to convey both your enthusiasm and suitability in a way that presents you as the obvious choice.
Your cover letter should be the aperitif a recruiter samples before turning to your CV. It should be just enough to leave the recruiter wanting more.
Your cover letter should convey:
- Who you are
- Why you’re interested
- What you have to offer
- Why you’re a good match
Section 1 -Introduction
The introductory paragraph should be addressed to the hiring manager where you know their name. Where you can’t find this out, then address as Dear sir/madam. Insert the job reference if there is one.
State the role you’re applying for and say where you saw it advertised or heard about it. Refer to your attached CV.
State in brief your credentials; relevant qualifications, experience and skills.
Section 2 – why you’re interested in the role
In order to do this compellingly, be specific. Link your experience to your reasons for applying for post.
Researching the role, organisation, sector and culture will all help you do this convincingly. Many people don’t make the effort to do this thoroughly, so you’ll automatically have an advantage. See my post on how to increase your chances of getting shortlisted for tips on how to research effectively.
Section 3 – What you have to offer
What have you done which illustrates the impact you could have in this role? Select three key areas highlighted in the job role to make these directly relevant. Consider making these into bullet point these so they stand out.
Part 4 – why you’re a good match
What are the specific challenges currently facing the organisation or sector? How can you demonstrate that you possess the skills to be useful by linking them to the problem to be solved? Quantify or qualify your examples to demonstrate the impact you’ve had.
Use different examples from your CV to avoid repetition.
Keep the focus on what you can do for the organisation rather than simply attempting to impress by listing examples.
Conclusion
End by thanking the recruiter for their time. Say that you look forward to discussing the role in more depth at interview.
Sign off with Yours Sincerely if you know the name of the hiring manager or Yours Faithfully where you don’t.
Bonus tips.
- Proof read your documents. Use spelling and grammar checks to be sure. Casual errors can lead to rejection.
- Save your documents as pdfs before submitting to retain the formatting.
- Do you have a specific skill or strength that’s not listed in the job requirements? If you can see that it would provide value, include it. It may give you the edge over other applicants.
- There is no need to over-embellish your accomplishments. Strip out adverbs and adjectives. Let your achievements speak for themselves.
- Equally there is no place for gushing. Avoid phrases such as ‘I’ve always dreamed of working for your company.’ The effort you put in to demonstrate your research will convey your motivation.
- For each sentence as yourself ‘is this relevant?’ If it’s not, take it out. Succinctness is key.
There are no shortcuts to creating a good cover letter. However, understanding the structure and process required will increase your likelihood of making the shortlist.
Anne, we must have a catch up some time soon. Hope all’s well. Keep up the terrific work:-) Deirdre
That would be great Deirdre. You’re on my list of people I would love to catch up with. Let’s schedule a time!