Cover Letters: Ain’t Nobody Have Time for That 

This is 2021. Who still has the time to write a cover letter for a resume? By the way, is it still necessary for job applications? The simple answer to both questions is yes, a cover letter is still important for job applications. It can still make the difference between getting a job interview and having your resume ignored.

It is understandable that many people don’t have time to write cover letter for a job application. Even those who feel they are still necessary believe it is better to let other people write it for them. The truth is, it is best to write your cover letter since you know yourself best. You can use a template, but there are important things you need to know while writing.

To write the perfect cover letter for a resume, there are several things you need to know. We will discuss some of the most relevant things about cover letters to help you write one that can make a difference:

What Is A Cover Letter? 

A Cover letter is a one-page document that is sent with a resume to provide additional information that can show that a candidate is the right person for the job. It should introduce the candidate’s skills, experience, and personal interest in applying for the job.

Cover letters should be more about the job you are applying for. It is expected to contain detailed information on why the candidate (that’s YOU!) is qualified for that particular job.

From what we have stated above, you should know that it is wrong to simply repeat the content of your resume. It is best to see the resume as your credentials and the cover letter as a sales pitch that will market the credentials. In most instances, employers and hiring managers use cover letters to sort applications.

What Are The Different Types Of Cover Letters? 

Though they serve the same primary function, cover letters come in different forms. You need to know the three different types so that you know exactly what you are doing when writing. The three primary types of cover letters include:

• Application Letter responds to a known job opening. It is used to apply for a job when a vacancy has been advertised. It is the real cover letter for a resume.
• Prospecting letter inquires about possible job positions. It is also called an inquiry letter.
• Networking letter requests information and assistance in job hunting.

Here, we are going to focus on the cover letter for a job application, which is the one you write in response to a confirmed job opening.

What Do You Need To Include In Your Cover Letter? 

To get the attention of the hiring manager or anyone in charge of vetting applications, you need to include the right information. As hinted earlier, the cover letter for a resume should complement and not duplicate your resume. It is also expected to add a personal touch to any job application.

It is expected to contain an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. The introduction should include the heading and salutation. There should be an opening paragraph, a second paragraph, a third paragraph (maybe), and then a closing paragraph. The conclusion should contain a formal closing and maybe a postscript.

It should explain to the person in charge why you are interested in working with the company and why you are a suitable candidate for the position you are applying for. You will need to read and understand the job description in order to match the required skills with your professional skills. State how you have applied the skills before and how you will be effective in the position you are applying to fill.

Things You Must Avoid In Your Cover Letter

This is where things can get a little too tough for some people. There are some pieces of information that are not needed in your cover letter for a resume. Including them can ruin your chances of being considered for an interview.

While a cover letter requires your personal interest in a particular job, it doesn’t require your personal information. You should know the difference. Personal interest in the job relates to your willingness to work with the company, while personal information pertains to information about yourself and your family – information that is not relevant for the job.

You shouldn’t also talk about salary expectations in your cover letter for a resume unless the company clearly asks for it. It is also not appropriate to ask questions. You can reserve your curiosity about the compensation package for the interview session or, rather, when you have crossed that huddle. The letter shouldn’t be too much. As briefly as possible, aim to entice whoever reads the letter to invite you for an interview.

How to Write Great Cover Letter for a Job Application 

The aim of a cover letter for a resume is to get your application noticed. Remember, we mentioned that it is like a sales pitch for your credentials. In most instances, you have many other applicants vying for the same position, and the way your cover letter is written will determine if your application will be ditched or considered. A good pitch, in the form of a wonderful cover letter, will, at least, earn you an interview.

Without further ado, here is a step to step approach on how to write a great cover letter for a job application:

• Create a Professional Cover Letter Header 

It starts with the basics. Make sure your heading is professional and perfect. Your and contact information, the name of the hiring manager, as well as the date, has to be properly presented in a professional header.

• Open the Letter with a Proper Salutation 

You should address your letter to the manager who will read it. If you know the name of the individual, addressing him/her directly will make a good impression. Dear Marissa,

How does that sound?

• Make Your Opening Paragraph Catchy 

Most times, this is the part that determines whether the busy hiring manager will read on or throw an entire application into the bin. There must be something that will capture the attention of the reader and make him/her read on attentively.

• Explain Why You Are the Perfect Candidate 

Your second paragraph should convince the hiring manager or any other decision-maker that you are the right candidate for the job. Make them want to speak with you directly, and you will earn an interview session.

• Explain Why You Are Eager To Join the Company 

You also need to explain to your future employer that you will enjoy working with the company. Show the person in charge why you really want to work with the organization.

• Make Your Offer in the Closing Paragraph 

Your offer should carry value. The best trick is to positively inform the hiring manager that you are eagerly hoping to meet and discuss further how your experience and knowledge will help your future employer in the job role.

• Close the Letter on a Formal Note 

Sign off the letter in the most dignified manner. Do not appear needy or repeat a clichéd phrase.

• Add a Postscript as a Hack 

A few people know about this trick and how well it can help. It works wonders mainly because it draws the attention of any reader with urgency. Here, it is best to give a hint on something really impressive about your career and insert that you will be eager to provide them with more details.

Conclusion 

Writing a cover letter for a job application is still very important. It is a way of showing the hiring manager that you are particularly interested in the job opening and has what it takes. A cover letter for a resume is more like a sales pitch for your credentials, and you have to do it so well. Remember to edit and proofread your cover letter before sending out the application.

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