Having a cover letter whenever you apply for a job is a must. It gives you a chance to impress the employer and get noticed. As a recruitment agency, we know how crucial it is to write a great cover letter. In this blog post, we’ll share simple tips on what to do and what to avoid when writing a cover letter. These tips will help you create a strong and persuasive letter that increases your chances of getting an interview.
Do
Do Your Research:
Before writing your cover letter, spend some time learning about the company you’re applying to. Understand their values, mission, and recent accomplishments. Customise your letter to show how you can contribute to their success. This shows your genuine interest and makes your application stand out.
Address The Right Person:
Try to find out the name of the person who will be reading your cover letter, preferably the hiring manager. Instead of using any common greetings such as “To Whom It May Concern,” use their names. It shows that you put in the effort to personalise your application and pay attention to details.
Start Strong:
Grab the reader’s attention right from the beginning of your cover letter. Write a compelling opening paragraph that shows your interest in the position and briefly mentions your relevant qualifications. This will make the hiring manager want to keep reading and learn more about you.
Highlight Your Relevant Skills:
Focus on the skills and experiences that are most important for the job you’re applying for. Highlight your achievements that demonstrate your abilities and match what the company is looking for. Make it easy for the reader by using bullet points to showcase these points.
Show Your Enthusiasm:
Let your excitement and passion for the role and the company shine through in your cover letter. Explain why you’re thrilled about the opportunity and how it fits into your career goals. Employers appreciate candidates who are motivated and genuinely interested in their work.
Don’t
Avoid Generic Templates:
Don’t use generic cover letter templates that lack personalisation. Hiring managers can tell when you’ve used a cookie-cutter letter, and it gives the impression that you’re not really interested in the job. Write a unique cover letter that shows your personality and matches the specific job requirements.
Don’t Repeat Your Resume:
You should ensure that your cover letter complements your resume and does not repeat it. Don’t copy things from your resume. Instead, use the cover letter to provide more context, explain any career changes, and highlight specific achievements or experiences that are relevant to the role.
Keep it Concise & Relevant:
Don’t overwhelm the reader with too much information or include irrelevant experiences. Ensure your cover is only focused on the most important or relevant details. Choose quality over quantity and highlight your most impressive qualifications and achievements.
Avoid Jargon & Technical Terms:
While it’s good to show your knowledge of the industry, don’t use too much jargon or technical language in your cover letter. Remember that the person reading it may not have the same expertise as you. Use clear and simple language to make sure your message is easily understood.
Always Proofread:
Always make sure that you proofread your cover letter before you send it out. Spelling mistakes, grammar errors, and typos can give a bad impression and make you look unprofessional. Take the time to carefully read through your letter, or even better, ask a trusted friend or colleague to check it for you.
Writing an effective cover letter is important for job seekers. By following these simple tips, you can create a compelling cover letter that stands out to employers. Remember to personalise your letter, emphasise your relevant skills, and show your enthusiasm for the job. With a well-written cover letter, you’ll increase your chances of getting an interview.
