Crafting the Perfect Cover Letter: Our Comprehensive Guide to Stand Out
Entering into a new job hunt can be a daunting task, but with time dedicated to proper preparation, you can take measures that set yourself up for success.
You’re likely already familiar with writing a CV or resume, which is an integral part of any job application, but how comfortable are you with writing a cover letter? If you’re looking for guidance on how to write a cover letter, or for advice on improving yours, then read on for our ultimate guide on crafting the perfect cover letter.
What is a Cover Letter?
A cover letter is a one-page document that complements your resume in a job application, but how exactly does it differ?
The difference between a cover letter and a resume
Your resume should present a detailed list of your experience, skills, and achievements. This is an impersonal document that includes as much information as possible in a concise, easy-to-read format. You might use the same resume to apply to multiple jobs, or make only minor edits for different roles.
A cover letter, on the other hand, should show more of your personality, and should be tailored to each individual position you’re applying for.
How long should a cover letter be
Your cover letter should be as concise as possible, while still including enough details to exhibit your suitability for the role. It’s recommended that you keep your cover letter to a maximum of 500 words, broken down into paragraphs for easy reading by the hiring manager.
How to Format a Cover Letter
Your cover letter should have three main sections; introduction, body, and conclusion.
Introduction
Think of this as your first chance to make a good impression and stand out to hiring managers. You’ll want to include a brief introduction about yourself, along with your education and any relevant employment history.
Be sure to start off by addressing the hiring manager or job ad contact directly, as this shows that you’ve taken the time to individualise your cover letter.
Then, explain why you’re applying to the position, including details about your suitability to the role, as well as why you think you would be a good culture fit for the company. This is your opportunity to show that you’ve done your homework, so make that obvious to the reader!
Body
Once you’ve introduced yourself and a bit about your experience, now’s your chance to demonstrate your skills by giving examples of how you’ve applied them previously.
Refer to the job description to find out what the role calls for specifically, and do your best to tie those into your cover letter. If you haven’t yet developed the skills mentioned in the ad, then be creative and detail your transferable skills, and how you could apply these while expanding your skillset.
Anything that you mention in the body of your cover letter should be linked to what’s on your resume to ensure consistency and cohesiveness across your application.
Conclusion
Your conclusion paragraph should act as a quick summary to recap the points you’ve already hit on – there shouldn’t be any new information here. You should aim to reiterate your interest in the role, as well why the company should be interested in you as a candidate.
Before your sign off, express interest in further dialogue, saying something like “I would love to discuss the role further with you”, “I look forward to hearing from you and discussing my eligibility for the role”, or something along those lines.
Download our Cover Letter Template
Writing your Cover Letter
The tone of your cover letter should be professional and polite, but should still show off your personality. It’s important to find the right balance for this, and it can take some adapting and reworking to find the appropriate tone.
It’s important for your cover letter to demonstrate your enthusiasm and eagerness towards the opportunity, being specific about details and not meandering too far from the point.
It should go without saying that you need to proofread your cover letter (and resume), and ideally have another person look over them too. This is to ensure that it’s free from typos, and reads well to an outsider.
What Employers Look for in a Cover Letter
Remember when writing your cover letter that it’s as much about showing off your skills as it is about satisfying the hiring manager enough to make it to the next stage of the process. Keep in mind that employers are mainly looking to gain an understanding of your personality, how you perform professionally, and how their team will benefit from bringing you on board.
It is important to show that you have done your homework and have a good understanding of the company you are applying for and what the role will entail. Employees want to hire candidates who are genuinely interested in their job, not just any job- so do your research so you can explain why the organisation and role appeals to you!
Be work fit for life
At Miller Leith, our recruitment specialists can help you find the right role. Get in touch with Miller Leith today to begin refining your job hunt.