Abasiakan DennyA cover letter is a twin to a resume and is presented together with a resume for a job application. A cover letter is important because it highlights relevant skills you have, your experiences and your achievements. A compelling cover letter is crucial to stand out to potential employers. The cover letter serves to introduce the applicant to the hiring managers. To write an eye-catching cover letter, you must take note of the following key features.
Customise Your Greeting
Research the company and tailor your greeting to the company. Don’t use a general greeting. If you know the hiring manager, use that in your opening greeting. You can research the company’s website to find the hiring manager. This demonstrates your interest in the position. Avoid using terms like “To whom it may concern.” instead, personalise the greeting like “Dear Mr Donald.” This can help set an enabling environment that can affect your job application.
Have a Strong Opening
Begin your cover letter with a strong opening. Clearly state how and where you came across the job and why the position interests you. State the position you’re applying for and why you’re passionate about the role. For example, you can begin a cover letter like this, As a professional passionate about excellence and driving innovations, I came across your ad on [platform], and I am happy to apply for [Job title] position at [company’s name].
Highlight Your Skills and Experiences
Spotlight your skills and experiences to meet the specifications of the job position you’re going to. To make a good point, include relevant examples of how you used the skills listed to solve problems. For example, you may say, “ From my role as an English Grammar teacher,50% of the students I tutored scored above 70% in the TOEFL and IELTS tests.” Your skill set should contain keywords from the job descriptions. Don’t include skills that will make your application odd.
Keep it Concise
Make your cover letter as concise as possible. Don’t make it too bulky and avoid hoarding important information because of extra fluffs. Ensure that your cover takes only a page. include only the important information. You’re not writing a story, so make the work simple. A paragraph should successfully convey a clear message that stabilises the overall intent of the cover letter. Use bullet points and uniform formatting to make your writing readable.
End with a Strong Closing
The closing paragraph should summarise what you’ve written in the ensuing chapters. Emphasise your interest in the role, highlighting the relevant skills that make you the preferred candidate. Your concluding paragraph should show anticipation of being considered for the job. Consider a similar closing such as, “ I am grateful for your anticipated consideration of my application for the position. I am passionate about joining the team and contributing to the company.” Proofread your cover letter. Check the formatting, and paragraphing styles and ensure they are coherent with accepted standards.
By following these guidelines you will know how to create a compelling cover that separates you from competitors. A personalised greeting, a captivating introduction, highlighting of key skills, conciseness in information and a strong closing are some of the features to create a cover letter distinct from other job applicants.’
