We spend ages writing a resume that can help us get a job. The general idea is that it is all we need to make a good impression on the employer. However, the fact is that cover letters play an equally important role if you want to land the job of your dreams. A carefully written cover letter can help you to get noticed by many people and get the job that you really want. But what are the important parts of writing a good cover letter?
So, how do you write a cover letter that truly grabs attention? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about writing a stellar cover letter, from its purpose to its structure. You’ll also find helpful cover letter templates and examples that you can customise for your job application.
Still not convinced how it can help you professionally? In that case, let us begin by learning why a cover letter is important and why you should put in those hours of hard work to make one.
Why a Cover Letter is Important for Job Applications?
A. Introducing yourself to the employer
Your cover letter is your initial introduction to the employer. It gives you a chance to show your character, eagerness, and professional attitude from the beginning. When you start by telling about yourself in a short and interesting way, it creates a good impression for the rest of your application.
B. Highlighting your relevant skills and experience
Your resume gives a full picture of your work history, but a cover letter lets you talk more about certain abilities and experiences that matter for the job you want. It is an opportunity to highlight your successes and skills, helping the employer see why you are exactly right for the position.
C. Demonstrating your interest in the position and company
Employers desire to see that your interest in the job and their company is real and you are not joining only for the salary. The cover letter must show your enthusiasm for this field of work, how much you are looking forward to this chance and your comprehension of the ways you can add value to their achievements. This shows the employer that you have prepared well and are truly interested in the job.
D. Complementing your resume
Your resume offers a formal summary of your work history, but the cover letter for job application is where you can talk more about other important parts. You have the chance to describe reasons for any breaks in your resume, discuss special accomplishments or tasks, and give background information about how your career has developed. Consider your cover letter to be an addition to your resume that fills in any gaps and offers a fuller picture of you as an applicant.
How to Structure a Cover Letter ?
A well-structured cover letter ensures your application stands out. Here’s a quick breakdown:
1. Header and Contact Information
Start with your name, address, phone number, and email, followed by the date and the recipient’s details (hiring manager’s name, title, company, and address). A professional format immediately sets the right tone.
2. Salutation
Whenever possible, address the letter directly to the hiring manager (e.g., Dear Mr. Tan or Dear Ms. Lim). If unsure, use Dear Hiring Manager.
3. Engaging Introduction
Begin with a strong opening that conveys enthusiasm. For example:
“I am excited to apply for the Marketing Executive position at [Company Name]. With expertise in digital marketing and content strategy, I am eager to contribute to your team’s success.”
4. Showcase Your Skills and Achievements
In the body, focus on relevant skills and accomplishments tailored to the job. Use specific examples, like:
“At [Company Name], I increased engagement by 40% through a targeted social media campaign, demonstrating my ability to deliver measurable results.”
5. Closing Paragraph
Wrap up by reiterating your enthusiasm and thanking the employer. For instance:
“Thank you for reviewing my application. I look forward to discussing how my skills align with [Company Name’s] goals.”
End with a professional sign-off, such as Sincerely or Best regards, followed by your name.
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Cover Letter Template
A. Breakdown of the cover letter structure
Start with your own contact details, then write the date and after that put down the contact information of the employer. If you can, use the name of the person in charge of hiring and show how much you want this job right from your first paragraph. In the main sections, please emphasise what you can do, your abilities, and your past work that fits this role by giving clear instances.
At the end of your letter, remind them again about how much you want this job. Say thank you to the hiring manager for looking at your application and mention that you are looking forward to talking more about why they should choose you.
B. Customisable template for easy adaptation
- [Your Name]
- [Your Address]
- [Your Phone Number]
- [Your Email Address]
- [Date]
| Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name], [Opening Paragraph: Introduce yourself and talk about your interest in the position.] [Body Paragraph: Talk about your skills, qualifications and work history that are important for the job. Give clear instances to show how well you fit the position.] [Closing Paragraph: Talk about the interest you have in joining the organisation and say thank you to the person in charge of hiring for looking at your application.] Sincerely, [Your Name] |
C. Tips for using the template effectively
Tailor your cover letter by modifying the template to highlight your personal abilities and history. Customise every cover letter specifically for the job role and organisation you are applying to. Ensure your cover letter is concise; aim for it not to exceed one page. Review your cover letter carefully to identify and fix any spelling or grammar errors prior to sending it out. While writing a resume cover letter maintain a formal tone and language, avoiding expressions that are overly casual or familiar.
Cover Letter Samples
A. Sample 1: Entry-level position
| Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name], I recently finished my studies in [Field] and I’m excited about applying for the [Specific Position] at [Company Name]. During my time studying and interning at [Previous Company], I gained useful skills in [Relevant Area]. I’m eager to bring my passion for learning and dedication to [Company Name]. I believe my education and internship experience make me a good fit for your team. Thank you for considering my application. I’m looking forward to discussing how my skills and experience match what [Company Name] needs. Best regards, [Your Name] |
B. Sample 2: Mid-career position
| Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name], I’m reaching out about the [Specific Position] role at [Company Name]. With [Number] years of experience in [Industry], I’ve accomplished [Achievement or Result], showcasing my knack for [Relevant Skill or Ability]. I’m pumped to bring my expertise in [Specific Area], leadership skills and problem-solving mojo to your team at [Company Name]. Thanks for considering my application. Let’s discuss how my background fits with what [Company Name] needs. Regards, [Your Name] |
C. Sample 3: Career change
| Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name], I’m reaching out regarding the [Specific Position] at [Company Name]. While I’ve got experience in [Current Industry], I’m eager to transition into [Target Industry] and apply my skills in a new environment. My previous roles have honed my skills in [Transferable Skill 1] and [Transferable Skill 2], but I’m excited about diving into [Target Industry] because I’m really passionate about [Relevant Interest or Goal]. Regards, [Your Name] |
Practical Tips for Writing an Outstanding Cover Letter
Writing a great cover letter doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are some easy-to-follow, practical tips that will help you create a personalized cover letter that stands out and makes a lasting impression:
A. Research the company and position
Before you start to write your cover letter, spend some time looking into the company and the exact role you want. Make your letter fit what the company looks for and how they do things by showing that you know about their purpose, what’s important to them, and what they aim to achieve.
Talk about particular programs, efforts or successes of the company that you find impressive. This will demonstrate to the employer that you have researched well and truly want to be part of their workforce.
B. Use a professional tone and language
Your cover letter should be formal and professional. Choose words that show your professionalism. Do not use casual or common language, but rather action words and terms that are specific to the industry to communicate your skills and past work experiences properly. Display your ability to communicate by speaking clearly and with confidence, which will let the employer see you can represent their business in a professional manner.
C. Keep it concise and focused
Cover letter recommendations suggest including enough details to show the employer that you are a suitable person for this job. But remember, make your cover letter short and on point. Try not to go over one page and mainly talk about things that align with what the job asks for. Use concise paragraphs and bullet points. This helps the hiring manager quickly understand your points.
D. Proofread and edit carefully
Ensure you review and make corrections to your cover letter before sending it. Look for any spelling or grammatical mistakes, and confirm that the writing is clear, brief, and has no typing errors. Focus on the cover letter format, ensuring that your thoughts progress in a logical manner and that you communicate your intentions well.
It might also be beneficial to have somebody like a friend, relative, or co-worker go through it, too, since they could spot errors or suggest enhancements which you might not notice by yourself.
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Addressing Common Scenarios
A. Applying for a job with no relevant experience
When you apply for a job but do not have experience in that field, it is important to show the skills and personal characteristics that still make you a good choice. Talk about volunteer work, activities outside of school or work, or your own projects, which show how fast you can learn new things, cooperate with others as part of a team or solve problems well.
Show examples of when you have shown initiative, led a team, or obtained significant outcomes, even if these were not in a work environment. By highlighting what you are good at and your capability to improve, you can demonstrate to employers your readiness to learn and advance within the job.
B. Responding to a job posting with specific instructions
When you reply to a job advertisement that has clear instructions, make certain to stick closely to what the employer is asking for. Look after any particular questions or conditions mentioned in the advertisement and shape your application so it fits well with what the employer is looking for. Make sure you are very careful with things like when applications need to be sent, what documents they want from you, and any extra stuff they ask for.
C. Following up after submitting a cover letter
Once you have sent a cover letter, it is beneficial to send a short and courteous email afterwards. In this email, remind them of your interest in the job and mention again what makes you qualified. Make sure to keep your message brief, express gratitude towards the employer for looking at your application, and state that you are very excited about the possibility of getting the position.
Take this chance to quickly tell the employer again why you are a good choice for the job and how your abilities and past work fit with what they need. If you follow up soon and in a proper way, you show them that you are really interested and take initiative regarding this job possibility.
Conclusion
Making an effective cover letter is very important when applying for a job. If you know what is a cover letter for an application, what to include when writing a cover letter and follow the tips mentioned above, you will be able to write a letter that will be unique from others. That will really improve your chances of getting the job you want.
FAQs on How to Write A Cover Letter
Q1. Should I include a cover letter with my resume?
A1. It is strongly advised to add a cover letter with your resume because this allows you to properly introduce yourself and give more details about your capabilities.
Q2. How long should my cover letter be?
A2. Try to write a short and clear cover letter for internship; it is best if it is just one page long. Be sure to include all relevant information while avoiding unnecessary details.
Q3. How can I tailor my cover letter to a specific job?
A3. Study the company and job deeply, then customise your sample cover letter for internship to emphasise the abilities and past work that match what they need for the position.
Q4. What should I do if I don’t know the hiring manager’s name?
A4. If you are not able to find the name of the person in charge of hiring, direct your cover letter to the relevant department or opt for a general greeting like “Dear Hiring Manager.”
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