Think of your cover letter as one of your first impressions. It is crucial when applying for a job, and you need to put your best foot forward while being concise and engaging to convey your qualifications and enthusiasm for the position. Here are eight important things to include in a cover letter (which should be no longer than one to one and a half pages long):
- Introduction:
- Start with a professional salutation, ideally addressing the hiring manager or a specific contact. If you do not have a name, use a general greeting, but try to find the name if possible (do not forget: “Miss” is outdated and also, for those who are gender neutral, the “Mx.” title might be needed—do not misstep!).
- Mention the Position:
- Clearly state the position you are applying for and where you found the job listing. Thus, the employer will not have to guess which position you are seeking, in case they have posted a number of job openings.
- Highlight Your Qualifications:
- Briefly outline your relevant qualifications, skills, and experiences that make you a strong fit for the job. Be sure to address the specific requirements mentioned in the job posting—they will also receive your resume, and the cover letter allows you to expand on your qualifications in a narrative format while talking about those skills that will help you succeed in the job you are applying for.
- Tailor the Letter:
- Customize your cover letter for each job application. Demonstrate your genuine interest. You will also want to tailor your resume to the job post, and by downloading the FrogHire.ai extension, you can compare your resume to the job posting, helping you see how good a match you are for the job (and finding ways in which to enhance your resume to fit the job post).
- Provide Examples:
- Use specific examples or achievements from your past experiences to illustrate how you can contribute to the company’s success. Numbers and data can be particularly effective but be careful not to overwhelm the reader (these numbers should already be on your resume to quantify your success!).
- Explain Why You’re a Good Fit:
- Connect your qualifications and experiences to the company’s needs. Explain how your skills and background align with the company’s goals and culture—and of course, the open position.
- Show Enthusiasm:
- Explain why you are interested in working for them and what you admire about the organization: Do they have professional development opportunities? Are they a small startup? Have they been recently heralded in the news? Briefly explain why this is a great company match for your interests.
- Closing:
- End your cover letter by reiterating your interest and enthusiasm, and politely request an opportunity for an interview (try to avoid presumptuous language as it can turn a reader off; instead of coming across as confident, it can be perceived negatively). Thank the employer for their time and consideration. Include your contact information.
TLDR: Remember to keep your cover letter concise, typically one to one and a half pages in length. Proofread for errors, and make sure your language is professional and engaging. A well-crafted cover letter can significantly increase your chances of getting noticed and securing an interview. As you look for job opportunities, download the FrogHire.ai extension which will help you search across the five major job platforms and also find companies which will sponsor work visas if you are a non-domestic worker!
