How to write a cover letter
A cover letter is a usually a document that is one paged and often is accompanied by a resume when one is sending an application for a job. The letter gives you the opportunity to explain to a prospective employer who you are, why you’re the right fit for the vacancy and how you can apply your skills and expertise to add value to the firm. The letter ought to be proficient but amiable, and acts as a type of introduction. Many job hunters struggle with the lack of sufficient knowledge on how to write a cover letter. You will find that other than not knowing how to write a cover letter, they also don’t know the cover letter format. However, you may learn and perfect this vital skill. The time and effort will pay off because a great cover letter can increase your chances of landing an interview.
The letter for employment is what gives the prospective employer the first impression of you because it is always the first document in your job application that the recruiter will read, even before of your CV. That implies that you should get it right to grab the attention of the recruiter for all the good reasons. A letter that does not clearly express why you are the best candidate for the position or one with poor grammar and spelling mistakes, will send your submission to the reject pile. However, a good letter for employment works magic in convincing a recruiter of your abilities and your professionalism, and giving insights into your persona and character.
Not everyone believes that cover letters are important. Some prospective bosses may go straight to reading the resume and skip the letter. However, several of them still value the importance of a well-written introduction. Therefore, even though there is no guarantee that it will be read each time, it is wise to enclose one anyway. It has become equally common for cover letters to be sent in email form, these aren’t likely to be as formal as they were before the age of digitization. However, there are still a few essentials to include and that is why it is critical to know how to write a cover letter for job application.
Tips that will work for your cover letter
Keeping that in mind, this article will give you a step-by-step guide to writing a cover letter for that all-important interview to make you stand out and catch the eye of the recruiter. Here are some important tips that will guide you towards the letter.
1. Begin with vigor
The opening paragraph should grab the attention of the prospective boss and amaze them with your suitability for the position. Ensure that the letter is properly and directly addressed to the individual mentioned on the job advertisement, or if you’re applying speculatively, research and find the name of the relevant person especially an individual within the human relations department, a director or manager within the department where the vacancy exists.
2. Research before drafting the letter
Let the recruiter know that you have researched the company and have an idea of their brand. Explain why you are looking forward to joining their workforce and show enthusiasm for their industry and show passion for what they do.
3. Use your best characteristics
Summarizing your skills and experience is the next step in writing a letter for employment. Outline the most compelling parts of your resume and highlight your skills as they relate to the necessary requirements. If you can prove that you have the skills, experience and qualities they need, that will be efficient for marking you as one of the top candidates. It is important to clear articulate exactly what can do for the company and how you can contribute to the expansion of the business.
4. Outline other skills you have
Include any general skills that may be relevant to the role. These could be communication and interpersonal abilities, problem-solving capabilities and organizational strengths. To help convey the message and add some professionalism, remember to use dynamic verbs like collaborated, managed, motivated, analyzed etc.
5. Conclude with a 'call to action'
It’s vital to finish writing your cover letter by politely requesting the prospective employer to take the next step and ask them to contact you to arrange an interview. After that, remember to appreciate them for their time. If it is a speculative application, politely inform them that you will be contacting them to follow up.
Steps for the cover letter page format
Other than what is included in the letter, the actual appearance and feel of the document is an important feature of an application letter. Margins, font size and style, and alignment are important elements which factor in to the recruiter’s overall impression of you. Below are a few quick tips for a cover letter format when writing your own.
- The margins are supposed to be 1” – 1.5”. If the content can’t fit there is always some wiggle room, just ensure that the letter does not seem crammed together.
- Don’t use a font size smaller than the 12-point font unless when necessary.
- Font style is really a matter of preference. Try to choose one that looks professional or that matches what the employer uses on their website. Keep in mind that different styles will change the size of the font.
- Use a uniform alignment in the entire letter. All paragraphs should be left-aligned.
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A sample of an application letter may be modified for various situations. These cases could be email cover letters and letters inquiring about any vacancies even when there has been no job advertisement made.
Whether you finished school early or you're a tertiary grad, and whether you've had heaps of experience or none, one of these samples will suit your needs.
READ ALSO: How to write a proposal letter to a business
Writing a cover letter
Check out the cover letter examples below to inspire you to draft your own. In addition, we’ve got you covered if you're looking for a cover letter in a specific industry.
Cover letter examples for various purposes
These cover letter examples and templates will take you through can guide you through the process of how to write a cover letter for job application. These examples of cover letters are perfect for various circumstances, such as email job application letters. You can write some of these letters to ask about a vacancy even though no job vacancy has been announced.
Irregardless of your experience, one of these samples will be convenient for you. They cover different situations regarding job applications.
Cover letter when no vacancy is advertised
This template can be used as a starting point for drafting a letter to use particularly for cold calling a prospective employer.
Application letter when no resume is required
Use this template if you're applying for a job without enclosing your resume.
Cover letter without work experience
This template is ideal for applicants with little or no work experience.
Application with job experience
Use this template if you're applying for a job that has been advertised or you have worked in a formal environment and gained experience.
Email cover letters
Professionally designed sample cover letters, tailored for people who are applying for jobs online via email.
Note: Make sure your resume coincides with the letter for employment.
A strong yet professional cover letter is an efficient way of introducing yourself to potential employers. However, if you want to make an impression, the resume should be well written and work in tandem with the application letter. You use an evaluation after learning how to write a cover letter. An expert will go through specifications and advise you on how to quickly and easily boost job application letter.
READ ALSO: How to write a formal letter in Ghana
Source: YEN.com.gh
