There’s nothing like breezing through an online job application only to hit the dreaded “Upload cover letter” field.
Even the savviest writers struggle with writing a cover letter. It’s hard to strike the right balance of adequately promoting your skills without coming across as arrogant.
Luckily, millions if not billions of job seekers before you have struggled with the same dilemma, and there are known solutions for pushing through.
Here’s how to write the best cover letter:
1. Start with the greeting.
This should be the simplest part of the document but it’s one that many job seekers miss: Find out the name of the person hiring and address it to him or her. Going the extra mile shows that you really care. Be sure to check out our advice on how to address a cover letter with no name to help you with that process.
By the way, since many cover letters are being uploaded as online forms, it’s probably not necessary to include your return address or the address of the employer, though if you do have that information, adding it at the top will make the letter look more professional.
2. Use your first paragraph to clearly state your intent and show your enthusiasm.
This is where you should be saying to the hiring manager: “I’m excited to apply for the role of [x] at [company].” From there, go into your explanation of why this job and organization appeal to you. It can sound something like:
“I am excited to apply for a position as product manager in the audio division at Apple. Apple has set the bar high by focusing on customer satisfaction; that commitment is something I’ve always aimed for in my own career. As a product manager, I’d bring my focus on the end user, along with my relevant skills and experience, to your award-winning company.
Related: How to Respond When an Interviewer Says “Tell Me About Yourself”
3. Get down with examples.
The next two to three paragraphs should be about how your own experience will benefit and help you problem solve in the new role. This is best achieved by a simple formula:
— Use your first line to say something like, “From [date] to [date], I worked as [role] for [company name].
— Go into your responsibilities. “I was responsible for x, x, and x.”
— Talk about what insights were gleaned from that experience and connect the experience to the current role. “Learning to do [x] was a challenge, and I learned to get through it by doing [y]. As your product manager, I’d make sure that we [explain some promise or problem-solving technique].
Remember — the cover letter isn’t the place for you to chronologically list every job. It is a place for you to highlight the most relevant positions you’ve had for the job at hand; and in that way, it’s a great place to highlight things that might go unnoticed on your resume. Focus on your skills and awards as well.
4. Your final paragraph.
Make sure your resume is enclosed and indicate your desire to meet with the employer. “I hope to hear from you.”
5. End your letter with a standard business greeting.
Sincerely,
(Your Signature in blue or black ink)
Your typed name
Contact info
Final thoughts
Don’t include anything in the cover letter that would convey a lack of confidence (i.e. – “I’m sure I’m not as experienced as other candidates, but…” You want to paint yourself as uniquely qualified to handle the role.
