how do you sell yourself in a cover letter

Explore Jobs

Jobs Near Me
Remote Jobs
Full Time Jobs
Part Time Jobs
Entry Level Jobs
Work From Home Jobs

Find Specific Jobs

$15 Per Hour Jobs
$20 Per Hour Jobs
Hiring Immediately Jobs
High School Jobs
H1b Visa Jobs

Explore Careers

Business And Financial
Architecture And Engineering
Computer And Mathematical

Explore Professions

What They Do
Certifications
Demographics

Best Companies

Health Care
Fortune 500

Explore Companies

CEO And Executies
Resume Builder
Career Advice
Explore Majors
Questions And Answers
Interview Questions

How To Sell Yourself In A Cover Letter (With Examples)

How To Write A Cover Letter
When Is A Cover Letter Necessary
Free Cover Letter Templates
Cover Letter Mistakes To Avoid
Cover Letter Tips
How To Sell Yourself In A Cover Letter

Find a Job You Really Want In

When sending in a job application, cover letters are your chance to show off your personality and why you’re a great fit for the position. It can be difficult to strike a good balance between talking about your qualifications and adding some personality and flavor to your cover letter .

Making sure your cover letter shines is a great way to make your job application stand out and get noticed by hiring managers.

So many of the cover letters and applications that pass through hiring teams are bland, so taking the time to perfect your cover letter can really impress hiring teams.

Key Takeaways:

Selling yourself in a cover letter is your chance to show how you are qualified, unique, and valuable.

To sell yourself in a cover letter, first match your skills and values with that of the employer.

Use the four paragraph, 250-400 words structure of a cover letter to demonstrate your skills and how they can be used for the employer.

Use keywords from the job description to stand out.

How To Sell Yourself In A Cover Letter (With Examples)

Why Is It Important To Sell Yourself In A Cover Letter?

Using the cover letter format to sell yourself, tips for writing a winning cover letter, sample cover letter, why are cover letters important.

Cover letters are opportunities to promote your qualifications in a manner that is more personal and in-depth than a resume . You will want to use this opportunity because a cover letter lets you show:

How you are qualified. A cover letter gives you a chance to explain your skills and experience with more context. The reader should be able to see that you can back up your resume.

Why you are unique and valuable. You can use a cover to stand out among other applicants and show what you will be able to contribute to as an employee.

Personality. Inevitably, with writing, your personality and interpersonal skills come through. The reader can interpret a little bit more about who you are as a person and what kind of fit you would be for the company.

Combined, all these should impress the reader and make them want to learn more about you.

To sell yourself in a cover letter you want to:

Match your skills and values with the employer. You need to be relevant. What’s more, you need to be indispensably relevant. By aligning yourself to the needs of the company, you show that you have potential to be an invaluable asset.

Demonstrate your skills with an engaging example. Now that your skills are matched up, you need to back them up. Provide an example that shows how your skills were successfully put into action.

Show how your skills can help the employer. Underscore how your skills can contribute to success. You want to convince the reader that your skills are tools that would be best put to use within the company.

You are making an argument for yourself. Take the reader along, prove to them your worth, and convince them that you are exactly who they need.

A successful cover letter all comes down to how you structure your argument and what you focus on. The format of a cover letter should explore how your skills have been successfully put into action in the past and demonstrate what you can offer to your potential employer.

A cover letter is between 250 and 400 words long and is broken up into four paragraphs. Generally a cover letter follows this structure:

Introduction. This both provides context and is your hook that makes the reader want to learn more about you.

Previous experience. Explore one or two previous experiences that demonstrate how your skills were put into action and led to success. It is particularly helpful if you can provide quantifiable results.

What you have to offer. Match your skills and values with that of the company to show how you can fulfill their needs. You want to make yourself an asset to their success.

Conclusion. Wrap everything up in a logical manner and provide a call to action to prepare for the next steps of the application process.

However, understand that is is only a guideline. What’s more important is that you show how you are qualified and what you have to offer for your employer’s future success.

While there’s no sure-fire formula for writing a winning cover letter, there are a few things that you can do to make sure your letter stands out. Here are a few tips to help you get noticed and write the perfect cover letter every time:

Switch it up. When you apply for a new job , you should write a new cover letter. Not every job description and company is the same, so it’s best to edit your cover letter to specifically address each job posting and company.

Focus on the opening. Cover letters are often dull, so to really put your best foot forward you should make the opening extra interesting.

If you can pull your reader in from the beginning, you can make a great impression. If you want to make your opening extra attention-grabbing you can start by:

Showing off your passions

Connecting with the company

Telling a story

Writing a belief statement

Highlight a mutual connection

List your accomplishments

Avoid rewriting your resume. Cover letters get a bad rap since they often repeat what’s already written on a resume. While you can’t avoid repeating some things on the two documents, it’s a good idea to make them pretty separate.

Keep it positive. You should always have a positive tone and show that you love what you do. Talk about your favorite professional experiences or what you loved doing in past jobs.

Make it personal. If you can find the name of the hiring manager, you should personally address them in the salutation.

Talk about potential deal-breakers. Sometimes you might have something on your resume that would give an employer pause , so cover letters are the perfect time to try and calm their worries.

Leave your education behind. If you’re a few years out of school and you have your education history on your resume , you don’t have to detail your education. Only bring up your college or advanced degrees if it’s particularly relevant to the job.

Go short and sweet. You might think that the more you can pack into your cover letter, the more impressive it will be, but you should go for short and sweet.

Find job keywords. Job postings usually use certain keywords that are related to the skills employers are looking for and the responsibilities that they’re looking for someone to fill.

Highlight what you can do for the company. Often people write cover letters to express why the company is the best fit or what the company can do for them. Instead, you should focus on what skills and expertise you can bring to the company.

Pick the most relevant examples. Cover letters can get lengthy when you try to include everything that might be useful for a hiring manager to know. Instead, focus on what’s most relevant to the job description and the industry of the company.

Bring out stats. Whenever you can use numbers and stats, you have a chance to impress hiring managers. Instead of explaining that you boosted sales, find a number that expresses that better, like “increased sales by 125%” to give proof.

We’re going to show you a sample cover letter that will stand out from the rest of the applicants’ letters. You can use this as a starting point to make your cover letter the best it can be.

Dear Mrs. Smith, As soon as I learned that ABC Tech was hiring, I knew that I had to apply. Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve loved working with computers . That has followed me into my professional life and I am passionate about connecting people with their perfect device, starting with my first job at ABC Tech’s New York City location as a sales associate . My extensive history in sales for tech companies uniquely positions me to excel with ABC Tech. I have worked in consumer-facing tech sales since 2009 and have worked in managerial positions since 2016. My first job was with ABC Tech and I understand the catalog extensively after working with you and keeping up with your new product releases. In response to the responsibilities that were listed on the job description, I have: Experience in customer-facing sales positions Experience with customer service Managerial skills A proven record of exceeding sales goals Award-winning leadership skills I am eager to hear back from you. If you have any questions about my skills or qualifications, please do not hesitate to reach out. Thank you for taking the time to consider my application. Sincerely, David Baum

Cover letters are an important way to highlight how your unique blend of experience and skills matches the job description’s requirements. This gives you the opportunity to stand out among other applicants.

To really get the most out of your cover letter, you need to include experiences that aren’t on your resume or explain your work history , plus add a little bit of personality.

Since cover letters are more open-ended than resumes, you get a unique opportunity to really sell yourself to an employer . They can be especially helpful if employers don’t require you to fill out questions when submitting your application.

Cover letters are also a chance to show off your personality and help the employer determine if there’s a culture fit . These days, companies look for new hires who will not only contribute their skills to advance company goals, but also help them create a welcoming and vibrant company culture.

Finding ways to include personality in your cover letter can help you stand out and prove that you’d be a great culture fit.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating / 5. Vote count:

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Amanda is a writer with experience in various industries, including travel, real estate, and career advice. After taking on internships and entry-level jobs, she is familiar with the job search process and landing that crucial first job. Included in her experience is work at an employer/intern matching startup where she marketed an intern database to employers and supported college interns looking for work experience.

Matt Warzel a President of a resume writing firm (MJW Careers, LLC) with 15+ years of recruitment, outplacement, career coaching and resume writing experience. Matt is also a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and Certified Internet Recruiter (CIR) with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Marketing Focus) from John Carroll University.

Recent Job Searches

Registered Nurse Jobs Resume Location
Truck Driver Jobs Resume Location
Call Center Representative Jobs Resume Location
Customer Service Representative Jobs Resume
Delivery Driver Jobs Resume Location
Warehouse Worker Jobs Resume Location
Account Executive Jobs Resume Location
Sales Associate Jobs Resume Location
Licensed Practical Nurse Jobs Resume Location
Company Driver Jobs Resume

how do you sell yourself in a cover letter

How Long Should Should A Cover Letter Be? (With Examples)

Cover Letter Examples for Every Situation

How To Write A Legal Job Cover Letter (With Examples)

How To Write An Entry-Level Cover Letter (With Examples)

Career Advice >
Cover Letter >

How to Sell Yourself in a Cover Letter

In This Guide:

Research, baby, get personal, your top 3 secret sauce ingredients, add substance, call your wolf-pack, go and get it, takeaways: how to sell yourself in a cover letter.

Have you ever gotten all excited about a job ad you saw, only to bump into the “writer's block” minutes later, while starting to write your Cover letter? Typically, most of us find it easier to “shower” others with superlatives, but feel more or less challenged when we have to showcase our own skills. So if you answered “yes” to the above question, you`re definitely not the only one. Not to worry, though – we`re here and got you covered with expert tips on How to sell yourself in a Cover letter!!

In this post, we will take you through the following Cover letter tips let you in on how to sell yourself in a Cover letter. This is what you are going to learn:

“RESEARCH, BABY !”: Turn into a Secret agent .

Get personal : Address the recruiter by their name, if you know it.

Your top 3 secret sauce ingredients : tell them why they need to choose YOU.

Add substance: Make the second paragraph a firework of your achievements.

No clashes : Be relatable to the role and the company.

Creativity – WHEN & HOW MUCH: to create the WOW effect.

Call your wolf-pack : Establish a connection.

Go and get it : Finish it off with a strong CTA (Call to action).

Take a look at this Cover letter that has all of the above components:

Dear Mrs Stavropolou,

I am delighted to share with you my motivation for the position of Architect at company a2o.

As a child I have always been mesmerized by looking at streets and buildings` sizes, colours and the emotions that they infused in me and other people as well.

At age 12 I already dreamt of becoming an Architect.

That explains why I am naturally drawn to a2o as an “agency of dreamers with a firm grip on reality”.

What better mission for a dreamer with sparkling vision and firmly planted in reality than being united for success with other dreamers? ☺

Hello! My name is Tanya! I`m an Architect with 4 years’ experience in Interior design (Hotel & Home furniture, Leisure and Innovative Montessori classroom designs) and Landscape design, paired with a strong motivation to span the effects of 3D art beyond merely just comfort and functionality to elegance and exquisite style.

Moreover, I constantly upgrade my professional skills in line with the latest industry trends. As you can see from my portfolio, in order to create certain ambience and transmit emotions with it, I combine a large number of software’s:

However, I`m always inspired to get acquainted and certified in new professional software. I love to keep it fresh and lively, when it comes to creating my every next 3D art design.

What attracts me to a2o, apart from the diverse range of nationalities in the company, is the fact that via expert knowledge sharing you cross “borders” and “build” bridges (literally and metaphorically) between the academic world, the arts and society.

I am eager and excited to bring to the “table” my set of Creative Artist skills to a2o`s multidisciplinary team.

I am happy to further discuss with you a2o projects and our mutual collaboration.

By browsing our 500+ carefully designed Cover letter examples here , you'll kick to the curb any fear to present yourself in the best possible light and sell yourself with a memorable Cover letter, without selling yourself short. Not only you'll find the right template, but the dreaded Cover letter will turn into a piece of cake.

Does it still sound a bit overwhelming?! Let`s get down to business and craft your Cover letter to be proud of!

Upload & Check Your Resume

Drop your resume here or choose a file . PDF & DOCX only. Max 2MB file size.

Turn into a Secret agent for a day with One mission – of the company. Show that you know the organization inside out.

Have you ever been on a date where you could barely open your mouth, as the other person was talking on and On and ON about them and did not ask you a single question?

Well, I guess this is pretty much how Recruiters feel, when they read a Cover letter, full of fluff that says nothing about the company or how the candidate can meet the employer`s needs.

Of course, you don’t need to memorize the organization`s history by heart or cite it year by year as a boring history lesson, but investing the necessary time in a proper preliminary research will demonstrate to the Recruiter that you are serious, committed and don’t just apply blindly to any jobs, hopping from one to another.

Moreover, interpret the Mission, Vision and Goals of the organization through your own prism of aspirations and enchant your readers by stating exactly why you resonate with their mission. Imagine a day in your life as an employee of that company and transmit in your Cover letter the enthusiasm with which you will start your work every day! This is a powerful way to build rapport and end up on a shortlist for an interview for the darn job!

Address the recruiter by their name, if you know it.

Take a good look at the job ad for the names of the job poster. If you don’t find it there, double check as well on the company website for the correct HR representative for the role you are interested in.

Another creative way to get the right contact, that leaves a lasting impression, is to simply call the HR department, express interest in the job role and ask to which name you should address in your Cover letter.

Try it next time you are applying and let us know what the result was!

Take a look at this example:

“Dear Mrs Stavropolu,

I am delighted to share with you my motivation for the position of Account manager at company XYZ.”

And if you want to dive deeper, here is plenty more to read and learn on how to address your Cover letter, so it sells you how it should: What's The Best Way To Address A Cover Letter? .

tell them why they need to choose YOU.

To charm the HR at “Hello” is required a bit more than just copy/pasting some company facts in a generic Cover letter that drains the life out of anyone reading it. So to infuse your motivation with more selling power, in the very first, introductory paragraph you need to demonstrate flawlessly two simple, but crucial things:

You know really well the company and resonate with its mission;
You bring to the “table” the right skills combo that the managers die to have in-house.

Best way to go about it is to read carefully the job description and clearly highlight the TOP 3 skills you have that make you a catch that the company couldn’t afford to miss.

Once you have started on point with this hook statement, rest assured your Cover letter will be read from start to end.

Example of a more formal Opening of a Cover letter:

“I would like to express my interest in the job post Grant writer, currently open at the European Commission. The devotion to social innovation and inclusion of underrepresented groups that the EC demonstrates has always been an inspiration for me. Also experiencing the potential of EC ERASMUS+ program as an international student has been one of the lead factors that have inspired me to pursue a career as a Grant writer. In addition, my extensive 6+ years’ experience as a Lead EU Funds Project writer for various international companies and NGOs is asset for the European Commission, as well as for communities worldwide”

More on the proper structure of how to sell your skills in a Cover letter, you can find here: What Should Your Cover Letter Say .

Make the second paragraph a firework of your achievements.

As they say, talk the talk and walk the walk!

Stating your skills right at the start of your Motivation wouldn’t necessary guarantee you a seat for an interview, unless you back it all up with the relevant achievements and work experiences. Think of situation/s where you successfully solved a work issue and briefly note it, leaving your audience confident that you will rock it at the current role too.

This would definitely intrigue them to find out more about you! So don’t be timid to take the stage!

Bring numbers to your aid, especially if you`re after a Sales or another related position.

“Via the customized Branding strategy I have created at my past role as Lead Marketing manager, we have increased our Amazon eBook sales by 70% for 2021.”

One disclaimer, though : make sure you avoid exaggerating or untruthful statements, as they are quickly detected, especially by experienced HR managers. Plus, there`s nothing that wins others quite like authenticity.

Be relatable to the role and the company.

Now that we spoke so much about what you should write in a Cover letter, let`s touch on what you better avoid.

As you probably would not go to an interview for a Preschool teacher, groomed in Prom dress and on high heels, the same way you would not want to apply for an Accountant position at a very conservative company with a Cover letter that would better suit a Graphic Artist role by design and word choice. Right?

Rather than saying you are motivated, let your examples speak about your passion for the job. Hence, stay away from over-worn words that you can see in 90% of the Cover letters out there:

“Self-starter”, “Detail-oriented”

“I`m confident I would be the perfect person for the job”

And some more:

“To whom it may concern”

“I`m not sure you know”

“Please, feel free to”

To increase the capacity of your Cover letter to sell yourself as an expert, aim to use Power Adjectives and Action verbs to describe yourself.

For some fresh ideas, check out here: https://enhancv.com/blog/words-to-describe-yourself-on-resume-and-cover-letter/ .

WHEN & HOW MUCH to get the WOW effect.

Try to match the tone of the organization, while still keeping your unique voice. Being relatable keeps you in the game! Of course, for more Artistic or Humanitarian roles you can let yourself experiment with bold graphic design of your Cover letter, emotions display and storytelling.

More tips on Cover letter design consistency for success, you can read in our post here: https://enhancv.com/blog/cover-letter-design/ .

However, always keep in mind that while you need to come across as approachable and let your personality shine, too much sharing may overkill your chances to be moved forward in the selection process.

So the best strategy here is striking a fine balance between personality appeal and professional tone.

Example of infused originality and demonstrated passion and personality, without using beaten up clichés :

Dear Mr. Wilson,

I’m writing this cover letter to you at 11 pm. Why? Because I just finished speaking with my former co-worker, Jane Smith, who tells me that you’re hiring for the position of editorial assistant, and I wanted to apply immediately.

If you are in the mood to play with creativity and bring some freestyle taste into your mission to sell your skills in a Cover letter, this post explains exactly how to do that by telling a story to the Recruiters: https://enhancv.com/blog/how-to-tell-a-story-in-a-cover-letter/ .

Establish a connection.

Just like Diversity and Inclusion, Organizational culture is a buzz word with growing popularity in recent years. And that is not to be changed any time soon.

Sure enough, company culture is far more than just ping-pong tables in the office and free healthy breakfast. However, if you liked a certain perk that they are offering, no matter how small or big – SAY IT! Maybe the organization has a fantastic Employee Wellness program or inspirational Volunteer or Corporate responsibility policy! You name it!

Anything that you fancy – again – Say it! It will not get unnoticed – as you will – first of all - reaffirm again that you did your research, and secondly – that you are a close match not only for the job role itself, but are an organizational fit too. And any recruiter knows, the more you fit organizationally, the shorter your adaptation is going to be. Ultimately, the happier you will feel!

Here is an example:

“The healthy “work-life” balance is important for me, hence I highly value that you provide your employees the opportunity for home office and have various policies to support (new) parents. Moreover, what a great team climate can be sensed from photos of happy employees on company`s socials!

Finish it off with a strong CTA (Call to action).

Finally, after so many aces you have just poured in your Cover letter, it`s time for one last power-move – the Call to Action. After all, you're selling the best product you've got to offer, right?!

A lot of people feel very weary to use this “card”, as asking for a meeting may seem a bit too pushy or even desperate in their eyes. But don’t let yourself get fooled. You didn’t put all these efforts in your Cover letter, to let it end on a low accord and not seal the deal.

Here are some examples of a great CTA:

√ I look forward to meeting you soon and further discussing this exciting role and the company`s projects.

√ I'm particularly excited about the opportunity to learn more about the company`s current projects and how I can contribute to that effort.

√ I'd love a chance to learn more about this position and demonstrate how I can help (company or team) reach its organizational goals.

For more closing phrases to ramp up selling your professional persona in your Cover letter, check out here: How To End A Cover Letter - Free Samples, Examples, Formats .

So now you`re geared up to steal the show and sell yourself like a PRO by following what you have just learned:

√ Bring your confidence on-board.

√ Let your personality shine.

√ Get personal.

√ Know the company and tell exactly what you've got to offer them.

√ Establish a connection between yours and company`s values.

√ Demonstrate passion.

√ Showcase your successes.

√ Be relevant.

√ Don’t be generic or cliché-parroting.

To guarantee you will captivate the recruiters with your brand-new Cover letter, refer to this checklist:

Cover Letter Checklist : Learn How To Impress Recruiters

Ready to roll up your sleeves and start writing? If you feel like you need some guiding points, rather than starting your Cover letter from a blank canvas, we`ve got you covered on that one too – check out our 500+ Cover letter examples here: 500+ Cover Letter Examples & Samples for 2023 .

Cover Letter Guides

Email to Send Resume: How to Build Yours [+ Template]

How to list contract work on your resume, choosing the right resume adjectives, joey's dating resume trending on buzzfeed, how to answer: “do you want to tell us anything else about you”, how to list continuing education on your resume.

Create Resume
Terms of Service
Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences
Resume Examples
Resume Templates
AI Resume Builder
Resume Summary Generator
Resume Formats
Resume Checker
Resume Skills
How to Write a Resume
Modern Resume Templates
Simple Resume Templates
Cover Letter Builder
Cover Letter Examples
Cover Letter Templates
Cover Letter Formats
How to Write a Cover Letter
Resume Guides
Job Interview Guides
Job Interview Questions
Career Resources
Meet our customers
Career resources
English (UK)
French (FR)
German (DE)
Spanish (ES)
Swedish (SE)

Made with love by people who care.

How to Sell Yourself in a Cover Letter

Cover Letters
')" data-event="social share" data-info="Pinterest" aria-label="Share on Pinterest">
')" data-event="social share" data-info="Reddit" aria-label="Share on Reddit">
')" data-event="social share" data-info="Flipboard" aria-label="Share on Flipboard">

How to Convey Who You Are in a Cover Letter With Hobbies, Activities & Interests

How to write a letter to reject an interview, how to address a cover letter to human resources.

What Do Employers Want to Hear in a Sales Interview?
Email Format for a Follow-Up Resume

Cover letters are read in a matter of seconds. Making a quick, positive impression on a future employer is essential if you want to get to the next step. A cover letter is about making the connection between you and the company you're seeking to work for; a letter should be tailored to each job but still contain the key elements about what you have to offer in a way that makes it easy for recruiters to read and decide to give you a call.

Keep it short. Cover letters must be brief and dynamic; three paragraphs should suffice. The first paragraph should identify the job you are seeking. The second should summarize your career and accomplishments. The final paragraph should request a response, such as an interview invitation.

Identify a personal contact. If you've been referred or have a network connection with the person doing the hiring, mention it in the first paragraph. This tidbit of information will keep recruiters reading and may tip the scales in favor of getting you an interview.

Focus on accomplishments. Your application materials should highlight what you've achieved. A cover letter should connect your successes to the job you're after. When applying for a sales position, for example, highlight the fact that you exceeded sales targets for previous employers. Cover letters make a big impression; striking the right tone is important, so it's important to point to your qualifications without bragging. Include only accomplishments directly relevant to the position.

Tailor the letter to the company. A brief sentence that indicates you have done your research about the company demonstrates you are focused on the specific organization and are willing to put in the effort to impress company managers. For example, before you mention your past success in sales, you may say, "Since you have recently expanded in this area and plan to increase the size of your sales force, my past successes in sales will make me a good fit for the position."

Remove typos and other writing errors before you send the letter. Your ability to mind the details demonstrates you have professional standards and does not give employers a reason to dismiss your application. If you are applying to several companies simultaneously, review the company information in detail to make sure the appropriate information is included.

Massachusetts One-Stop Career Center: Selling Yourself On Paper -- The Cover Letter
Forbes: How to Write a Cover Letter
USA Today: Catch Their Eye With a Captivating Cover Letter
Forbes: The Worst Cover Letter in the World and How to Avoid Its Mistakes

Catherine Lovering has written about business, tax, careers and pets since 2006. Lovering holds a B.A. (political science), LL.B. (law) and LL.L. (civil law).

3 action steps to reaching stated career goals & objectives, how to put organizational skills on a cover letter, how to write interview acknowledgement letters, guidelines for writing a letter requesting a job interview, parts of a resume cover letter, writing a cover letter for a general manager position, how do companies use cover letters to screen applicants, how to write a letter to appeal a job offer withholding, how to upload a resume on linkedin, most popular.

1 3 Action Steps to Reaching Stated Career Goals & Objectives
2 How to Put Organizational Skills on a Cover Letter
3 How to Write Interview Acknowledgement Letters
4 Guidelines for Writing a Letter Requesting a Job Interview

Entertainment
Arts and Culture
Fashion and Beauty
Relationship and Weddings

₦10,000 Award – Win ₦10,000 every month as a Top Follower of Intel Region | CLICK HERE

Are you struggling to write a cover letter that effectively highlights your skills and achievements?

Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Many job seekers face the challenge of effectively selling themselves by showcasing their accomplishments to grab the attention of prospective employers. We have written this article to help you write a compelling and winning cover letter.

In this article, we will provide you with practical tips and tricks to help you craft a compelling cover letter that will leave a lasting impression on any hiring manager.

So, let’s dive in and discover how to sell yourself in a cover letter like a seasoned professional!

Why is it important to sell yourself in a cover letter?

Selling yourself in a cover letter is vital as it allows you to stand out in a highly competitive job market. A well-crafted cover letter not only complements your resume but also provides a personalized narrative of your qualifications.

It serves as your initial introduction to a potential employer, giving them a glimpse of your capabilities, experience, and what you can bring to the table.

By effectively selling yourself through your skills and achievements, you demonstrate your value and suitability for the specific role, capturing the employer’s attention and increasing your chances of securing an interview.

Table of Contents

5 Tips to Sell Yourself in a Cover Letter

Here are five tips to effectively sell yourself in your cover letter:

Tell a Compelling Story

Craft your cover letter as a narrative that takes the reader on a journey through your professional life. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in. Describe key moments or challenges in your career where you effectively applied your skills to overcome obstacles and achieve success.

Use storytelling techniques to vividly illustrate these experiences, making them come alive for the reader. Conclude your cover letter by summarizing how your story aligns with the job you’re applying for and how it has uniquely prepared you for success in the new role.

Visit HERE to check our job opportunities.

Highlight Transferable Skills

While it’s crucial to focus on job-specific skills, remember to emphasize transferable skills that can add value to the new role. Give concrete examples of situations where these transferable skills have made a positive impact in your previous roles, regardless of the industry or position.

Explain how these skills can bring a fresh and adaptable perspective to the role you’re applying for, showcasing your versatility and readiness to take on new challenges.

Emphasize Soft Skills

Identify key soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, leadership, adaptability, and problem-solving, and discuss their importance. Share specific anecdotes or instances where these soft skills played a critical role in your achievements or contributions.

Highlight how these soft skills have not only benefited your individual performance but also positively influenced your work relationships, collaboration with colleagues, and the overall success of projects or teams.

Show Professional Growth

Outline your professional journey by highlighting significant milestones that reflect your growth and development. Mention promotions, advancements, or certifications that showcase your dedication to improving your skills and knowledge.

Discuss how your professional growth has equipped you with the expertise and leadership qualities necessary for the new role, providing evidence of your continuous commitment to self-improvement and career progression.

Join any of these WhatsApp Groups to receive Prompt Job Alert on WhatsApp

Jobs Region Alert 1
Jobs Region Alert 2
Jobs Region Alert 3

Demonstrate Industry Knowledge

Showcase your deep understanding of the industry by referencing relevant trends, challenges, or innovations that you’ve actively engaged with. Describe your involvement in industry-related developments, whether through participation in conferences, contributions to publications, or active membership in professional associations.

Convey your commitment to staying informed about changes in the field and your readiness to apply this knowledge to the benefit of the company, underscoring your passion for your chosen industry.

By incorporating these tips into your cover letter writing, you’ll create a compelling and customized document that effectively showcases your skills and achievements to potential employers.

Explore More Helpful Contents

Top 7 Highest Paying Salary Companies in Nigeria
Top Online Google Courses to Take in 2023 (Free Certification)
Top 11 Highest Paying Tech Jobs in Nigeria
Top 15 In-Demand Jobs in Canada for Foreign Workers
11 Highest Paying Engineering Jobs in Nigeria
Top 10 Highest-Earning CEO in Nigeria and their Salaries
Top 7 Websites for Freelance Content Writers to Boost Your Income
List of Federal Government Interest-free Loans

In conclusion, crafting a cover letter that effectively showcases your skills and achievements can be a challenging task. However, by following the tips and tricks discussed in this article, you can create a personalized and compelling narrative that will capture the attention of any potential employer.

Remember to focus on telling a compelling story, highlighting transferable and soft skills, emphasizing professional growth, and demonstrating your industry knowledge. Additionally, quantifying your impact and articulating your career aspirations can further enhance your cover letter’s effectiveness.

With these strategies in mind, you can confidently present yourself as a standout candidate and increase your chances of securing your dream job.

Sample Letters

Sample 1: Highlighting Unique Achievements

Dear [Employer’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. My unique ability to drive results was prominently showcased in my previous role at [Previous Company], where I spearheaded a marketing campaign that not only increased brand visibility but also resulted in a 20% boost in customer engagement within a short timeframe.

This accomplishment underscores my innovative approach and capacity to deliver tangible results. I am confident that my experience in achieving measurable outcomes can significantly contribute to the success of [Company Name]. I am eager to bring my skills in [relevant skills] to a dynamic and forward-thinking organization like yours.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing how my achievements align with the needs of your team.

Sincerely, [Your Full Name]

Sample 2: Demonstrating Adaptability and Learning Orientation

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. Throughout my career, I’ve consistently embraced new challenges and technologies. For instance, I swiftly acquired proficiency in a new project management software at [Previous Company], streamlining our workflow and illustrating my commitment to adaptability and continuous learning.

My ability to adapt and learn quickly aligns with the dynamic nature of your organization. I am confident that my versatile skill set and eagerness to expand my expertise make me a valuable asset to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how my adaptability and learning orientation can contribute to the success of [Company Name].

Sample 3: Illustrating Problem-Solving Abilities

I am excited to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. In my previous role at [Previous Company], I encountered a significant challenge where [describe the issue]. Through strategic problem-solving and collaboration with cross-functional teams, I not only resolved the issue promptly but also implemented preventive measures, ensuring long-term success.

This experience underscores my ability to navigate complex situations and contribute proactively to organizational goals. I am eager to bring my problem-solving skills and commitment to excellence to [Company Name], and I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your team’s success.

Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the possibility of discussing my problem-solving abilities and their relevance to the needs of [Company Name].

[Your Full Name]

You may also want to read about the smartest questions to ask a recruiter at the end of an interview.

We wish you good luck in your job hunt. Do not forget to visit Our Website for Legit Jobs only!

iR Job Alert

Share an update or tip with us on WhatsApp: 07064212243 | [email protected]

Receive Job Alerts through our Social Media Channels:

WhatsApp: Jobs Region Alert WhatsApp
Telegram: Jobs Region
Twitter: @jobsregion
Facebook: iR Job Alert
Instagram: @jobsregion

NOTE: Intel Region Jobs ( Jobs Region Alert ) is the leading job informant in Nigeria and not necessarily an affiliate of the employer’s company.

Popular Jobs

Personal assistant at the european union, jobs at the federal university of agriculture, abeokuta international school, customer service officer at wema bank plc, unilag microfinance bank job recruitment 2024, latest job at the world health organization (who).

IntelRegion Media & Tech is a leading media solutions company, serving information in news, entertainment, jobs and scholarships to millions of people across the world.

Advertise with Us
Advertise on Intel Region WhatsApp Groups
Privacy Policy

JUST IN: Pandemonium as robbers attack man inside bank premises in Delta, cart away huge cash

Just in: efcc beefs up security in lagos, abuja and ibadan offices over planned protest, breaking: police kills nine-man armed gang in lagos.

Internships
Career Advice

Selling Yourself in Your Cover Letter

Published: Jul 09, 2019

Ah, advertisers. They try to suck us in within a matter of seconds. Sound familiar? Hiring managers typically spend less than 30 seconds reviewing a cover letter or resume—unless it grabs their attention enough so that they read on. The average television commercial is 30 seconds long. What about print? How long do you spend looking at an ad in a magazine before flipping the page? Or reading a bulletin board along the freeway (assuming you are not stuck in rush-hour traffic)? Those who write ad copy have to get a message across quickly. That means sharp, succinct, to-the-point writing.

What Are You Really Selling?

Yes, you are selling yourself and all that you have to offer: your skills, your experience, your attitude, and your personality. But think about it for a moment. Is that what you are really selling? Take the example of a health club membership. What is it that members are buying when they join the club? Access to classes and a large variety of strength training and cardio equipment? Sure, at the outset it looks like this is what you buy when you sign that one-year contract. In reality, health clubs are selling a desire: a desire to be in shape, a desire to be muscular, or a desire to be healthier.

When you are selling yourself to an employer, think about what the employer is really buying. An employee who shows up to work, does the job, and leaves? Or a person who can come to work and identify and solve problems? Someone who can fill the need of the company to make money, serve customers, and be a positive asset. To do that, the company needs employees who can save or generate profits, save time, enhance service, represent the company … qualities that help propel the company forward. In your correspondence, identify a need and offer a solution. Who can find hidden costs and eliminate them? Who is great at sales? Does this company need someone efficient? When you identify a specific need and show how you can meet that need, you become someone who will be a benefit to the company, not just another employee.

Think about how you can sell technical skills, for example. You can list all the technical skills that you have, such as software, hardware, and computer networking. This is like listing the features of the cell phone mentioned earlier. Or you can convey that your knowledge of accounting software allowed you to introduce a better program at your summer position as an intern, thereby reducing the time creating reports by 40 percent. The first method is simply a list of features. The second method demonstrates the benefit gained from putting those features (your knowledge) to work.

What sets you apart? Refer to everything you learned about yourself from your assessments. Pull accomplishments from your resume, and show in your cover letter why you are a benefit to the company—because you can accomplish X, Y, and Z. Go beyond simply stating your features.

Select the most impressive quantifiable achievements, reword them—or better yet, present them differently, such as converting information to percentages—and highlight them in the cover letter. If some of your accomplishments are dated, this is a great place to emphasize that information without drawing attention to the timeframe.

Know Your Audience

Who will be reading your letter? Will it be someone in human resources or the head of the department? If you are writing to human resources, for example, be sure to write in "plain" English rather than using a lot of technical jargon. If you are writing to a senior scientist, demonstrate your knowledge of the terminology used in your field, or you may come off looking inept. Write a personalized letter every time, keeping your audience in mind.

What is the atmosphere in the company? Is it corporate or a small, family-owned business? How you would address a hiring manager of a Fortune 500 company is very different from how you would address the CEO of a mid-sized private company.

Support Your Claims

You say you are skilled at obtaining contracts. Great. Now prove it. When writing your letters, do not simply state what you are good at. Show it. Give examples. Mine your past and come up with every possible example you can think of where you used the skills you claim to have. Make a list, and then choose the best ones to include in your letter. If you have a lot to choose from, keep the list so you can use different examples with each subsequent letter you send to a company.

Write Professionally

Remember that your letters are much different from your resume. You will not use the telegraphic style that you did in your resume. Write complete sentences; even bullet lists are generally an extension of a lead-in phrase, with each line of the bullet list creating a complete sentence as “add on” information. Use words instead of abbreviations. Use the active voice and sprinkle your letters with action verbs. Keep your correspondence brief and to the point. Do not include irrelevant information. Use a tone that exudes professionalism, not amateurism. Avoid using clichés and slang, and avoid any references to political or religious beliefs, or other unnecessary, unrelated information.

This content is excerpted from The Vault Guide to Resumes and Job-Hunting Skills, Second Edition . See the full guide for more information about cover letters, interviewing, and other skills you’ll need to land that perfect job.

Home Career Advice Blog

Selling Yourself in Your Cover Letter

Your cover letter has two important roles: (1) it's a marketing document designed to sell a product (you), and (2): it's a business document that, while giving a glimpse of your personality, needs to remain professional. It therefore stands to reason that lessons from those who sell, and those who write for business, can teach us a little something about composing an effective letter.

What are you really selling?

Yes, you're selling yourself and all that you have to offer: your skills, your experience, your attitude, and your personality. But think about it for a moment. Is that what you're really selling? Take the example of a health club membership. What is it that members are buying when they join the club? Access to classes and a large variety of strength training and cardio equipment? Sure, at the outset this is what it looks like you're buying when you sign that one-year contract. But in reality, health clubs are selling desire : the desire to be in shape, the desire to be muscular, the desire to be healthier.

When you're selling yourself to an employer, think about what the employer is really buying. An employee who shows up to work, does the job, and leaves? Or a person who can come to work and identify and solve problems, make money, serve customers, and be a positive asset? Likely the latter. And to find people to do all that, the company needs employees who can save or generate profits, save time, enhance service, and represent the company … qualities that help propel the company forward.

In your cover letter, identify a need and offer a solution. Who can find hidden costs and eliminate them? Who is great at sales? Does this company need someone efficient? When you identify a specific need and show how you can meet that need, you become someone who will be a benefit to the company, not merely just another employee.

Think about how you can sell technical skills, for example. You can list all the technical skills that you have, such as software, hardware, and computer networking. Or you can convey that your knowledge of accounting software allowed you to introduce a better program at your summer position as an intern, thereby reducing the time creating reports by 40 percent. The first method is simply a list of features. The second method demonstrates the benefit gained from putting those features (your knowledge) to work.

What sets you apart? Refer to everything you learned about yourself from your assessments. Pull accomplishments from your résumé, and show in your cover letter why you're a benefit to the company—because you can accomplish X, Y, and Z. Go beyond simply stating your features.

Select the most impressive quantifiable achievements, reword them—or, better yet, present them differently, such as converting information to percentages—and highlight them in the cover letter. If some of your accomplishments are dated, this is a great place to emphasize that information without drawing attention to the timeframe.

Know your audience

Who will be reading your letter? Someone in human resources? Or the head of a certain department? If you're writing to human resources, for example, be sure to write in "plain" English rather than using a lot of technical jargon. But if you're writing to a senior scientist, demonstrate your knowledge of the terminology used in your field or you may come off looking inept. Write a personalized letter every time, keeping your audience in mind.

What's the atmosphere in the company? Is it corporate or a small, family-owned business? How you would address a hiring manager of a Fortune 500 company is very different from how you would address the CEO of a mid-sized private company.

Support your claims

You say you're skilled at obtaining contracts. Great. Now prove it. When writing your letters, don't simply state what you're good at. Show it. Give examples. Mine your past and come up with every possible example you can think of where you used the skills you claim to have. Make a list, and then choose the best ones to include in your letter. If you have a lot to choose from, keep the list so you can use different examples with each subsequent letter you send to a company.

Write professionally

Remember that your letters are much different from your résumé. You will not use the telegraphic style that you did in your résumé. Write complete sentences; even bullet lists are generally an extension of a lead-in phrase, with each line of the bullet list creating a complete sentence as "add on" information. Use words instead of abbreviations. Use the active voice and sprinkle your letters with action verbs. Keep your correspondence brief and to the point. Don't include irrelevant information. Use a tone that exudes professionalism, not amateurism. Avoid using clichés and slang, and avoid any references to political or religious beliefs, or other unnecessary, unrelated information.

This post was adapted from the new Vault Guide to Resumes and Job-Hunting Skills .

Forgot Password?

Enter the email address associated with your account, and we will email you instructions for re-setting your password.

Need more help? Contact Customer Service at [email protected]

Create Account

Accounting
Advertising and Marketing
Aerospace
Agriculture
Airlines
Alternative Energy
Alternative Health Care
Animation
Architecture
Automotives Manufacturing
Biology and Life Sciences
Book Publishing
Business Administration and Management
Casinos and Casino Hotels
Chemicals
Chemistry
Child Care
Comic Books and Graphic Novels
Commercial Banking and Financial Services
Computer and Video Game Design
Computer Hardware
Computer Software
Construction
Consulting
Cosmetology
Dance
Defense
Dental Care
Design
Earth Sciences
Education
Elder Care
Electronics Manufacturing
Energy
Engineering
Entrepreneurship
Environmental Science and Conservation
Event Planning
Facilities Management
Fashion and Apparel
Film
Fire Fighting
Fitness and Sports Training and Coaching
Food and Beverage Production
Foreign Languages and Studies
Foreign Trade
Forestry and Forest Products
General Consumer Products
Government
Health Care Management
Health Care Providers
Hospitality
Human Resources
Import Export
Information Technology
Insurance
Internet Content
Internet Services and Security
Investment Management
Journalism
Letter and Package Delivery
Library and Information Services
Machining and Machinery
Manufacturing
Mathematics and Physics
Media and Entertainment
Medical Equipment Manufacturing
Metals
Military Services
Mining
Museums and Cultural Centers
Music
Nanotechnology
Newspapers and Magazines
Nonprofit Sector
Nuclear Power
Oil and Gas
Packaging
Parks and Public Lands
Personal Care
Pharmaceuticals and Biotechnology
Photography
Plastics
Politics, Public Policy, and Activism
Printing
Public Relations
Public Safety
Pulp and Paper
Radio
Railroads
Real Estate
Recording Industry
Religious Ministries
Restaurants and Food Services
Retail
Rubber
Sales
Security and Investigation
Shipping
Social Media
Social Sciences
Social Services
Space Exploration
Sports
Staffing and Human Resources
Stone, Concrete, Ceramics, and Glass
Telecommunications
Television
Textiles
Theater
Toys and Games
Travel and Leisure
Trucking
Utilities
Veterinary Medicine and Animal Care
Visual Arts
Waste Management
Wholesale
Writing and Editing

Student Discount
Credit Card
Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT)

Six Month Certificate Programs
Highest paying agriculture jobs
Best paying jobs in industrial machinery/components
Jobs that don’t require college
Behavioral questions and answers for interviews
Technical Interview
Sample thank you email after interview
You were fired on an application
Kohl’s Job Application
Baskin Robbins Hiring Age
Subway Hiring Age
Target Hiring Age
Apply to hobby lobby
Physiologist
Environmental Consultant
Maurices Credit Card Payment
How can I pay my Verizon bill? Find the easiest ways!
How to Pay my TJ Maxx Credit Card?
How To Apply For Dicks Sporting Goods Credit Card?
How Suddenlink bill can be paid?
How to make Furniture Row credit card payment?
Bed Bath & Beyond’s Credit Card Payment Process
Netspend Atm
Trial deposit Amazon Creditbuilder
Transfer Money From EDD Card to a Bank Account
Credit online shopping
Transfer funds with Routing and Account Number
Increase Total Loan Balance
Bad Credit Loans Urban BCL
Reduce Total Loan Cost
Canceling Student Loan Debt
Unsubsidized Student Loan
Borrow money from a millionaire
H&R block Emerald Advance
Chevy offer 0 Financing
Days Mortgage Approval
Mortgage on 1 million
Subscriber Id Insurance Card
United American Insurance Provider Portal
Unregistered Vehicle with Insurance
Home Insurance Claim Adjuster Secret Tactics
Agi renters condo insurance
Walgreens accepted insurance
Dentist that take caresource
Redpoint county mutual insurance company
Insurance walgreens accepts
Cricket wireless insurance claim
Stop paying child support
Home depot health check
Beat contempt of court for child support
Medical Schools that don’t require mcat
Social security Recipients Stimulus check
Find 401k Social Security Number free
Cash Advance Unemployment Benefits
Laminate Social Security Card
Ice Skating
Tattoo Shops
Verizon Store

How to Sell Yourself

When employers read your cover letter they need to be certain that your skills and experiences are relevant to your future career. To convince recruiters that you’re right for a role, follow these top tips for writing your cover letter:

Match yourself to the company’s requirements…

Identify the competencies they are seeking and think about how you match those. You can do this by reading the literature on their website. Think about the tasks and activities you could be involved in on a daily basis in the role and the skills they require.

Also consider your colleagues, the range of clients and other organisations you could be working with. If the job description has an extensive list of essential skills, try not to refer to each and every single one. This will make your cover letter overly long. Instead, focus on a few of the required skills which demonstrate your major strengths.

Furthermore, try to anticipate which skills are the most important to the job and make sure you address these concisely, but with sufficient detail.

Market yourself…

No one is going to do this for you. It’s a good idea to draw on a range of recent experiences and activities that demonstrate you have got the competencies the company is looking for. Think about the different areas of your life, such as your studies, your work experience, your leisure interests and the voluntary activities that you’ve done.

Consider the tasks and activities that you have been involved in, especially if they are linked to the industry. How did you contribute? What was the end result? What did you learn? This will provide you with a ‘skills bank’ of examples which you can use.

Promote your interpersonal skills…

Most companies place huge emphasis on working in teams, developing relationships and collaborating with colleagues. Your statement needs to reflect your excellent interpersonal skills. Relevant experiences to highlight are: involvement with clubs, societies and sporting activities at university and part-time jobs, internships or placements; especially if they have been in the relevant industry sector.

Even working in groups for projects whilst at university or college are relevant. These activities will highlight to a recruiter that you are a team player and will enable you to demonstrate that you have developed valuable skills such as leadership, teamwork, negotiation, communication and persuasion.

Demonstrate your industry awareness…

You need to make it clear to a recruiter that you have a genuine interest in the area of work you are applying for and that you understand how the particular company and industry sector operates as a whole. One way that you can develop this knowledge and begin to demonstrate this in your cover letter is to keep up-to-date by reading relevant industry websites, journals, publications and newspapers.

Create the right impression…

Make a positive impact by keeping your writing concise and to the point. Check for spelling and grammatical errors. This will show that you have effective written communication skills, an eye-for-detail and accuracy. These are all key skills in most career paths.

Don’t cut & paste…

When you’re actively seeking a new role, it’s all too easy to copy and paste sentences from previous cover letters into others. After all, nobody wants to put the wrong company’s name on their cover letter. It might well end up in the bin pretty quickly. It’s important that each cover letter is specifically targeted at the individual company.

This will instantly make your writing more genuine, honest and interesting for the recruiter. Furthermore, as the roles and competencies sought vary for each job, it is basically impossible to make your cover letter completely relevant to the individual job if you are copying and pasting big chunks of text.

Top 30 Graduate Employers
What Jobs can you Get at 14 Years Old? + 20 Companies hiring
Banks that let you Overdraft right away!
What is the SAT?
FAQ Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)?
9 Best Free Resume Builder Sites in 2022

+ Categories

COMPARATIVE

If you're seeing this message - that means some of our site's content isn't loading properly. Click here to reload and try another method.

Int'l Campuses
Corporate Training
Future Students
Current Students
International Students
Financial Aid

Community Employment Services | Perth

How to sell yourself with a winning cover letter.

You need to attach a cover letter to every resume you send out, whether you mail, e-mail, fax or personally deliver it. However, your best not to send out the same cover letter to every employer. Customize each one to the company you’re applying to and the job you’re applying for. Yes, this means a little more work on your part, but think of it this way: The cover letter gives you a chance to point out exactly why you are perfect for this particular job.

Cover letters usually have three parts.

Opening – states your interest in the company and the job. Tells how you found out about the job opening or the company and why you are interested.

Middle – tells the employer what you have to offer the company by highlighting one or two qualifications you think would be of greatest interest. Points out special training or experience you have. Demonstrates that you know something about the company and/or industry.

Closing – expresses your appreciation for the employer’s time and asks him/her to contact you or states that you will follow- up with them.

--> Cover Letter Checklist

Does your letter address the exact name and title of the contact person?
Did you use a natural writing style – professional but friendly?
Does your letter show that you know something about the company?
Does your letter demonstrate energy and enthusiasm?
Did you expand on your resume rather than repeat its content?
Did you sign your letter and give a phone number and/or e-mail address where you can be reached?
Did you have others check your letter for spelling and grammatical errors?

This site uses cookies to offer you a better browsing experience. Find out more on how we use cookies and how you can change your settings.

How to sell yourself in your CV

Your CV is your way of marketing yourself in your job search.

Think of it like a leaflet for the services you provide to companies as an employee.

Hiring managers will read it and make an instant decision as to whether they want to interview you or not.

So, you need to sell yourself in your CV, if you want to land a top job.

Here’s how to do it in 6 simple steps .

CV templates

Add a sales-pitch-style CV profile

The CV profile is the introductory paragraph at the top of your CV and is one of it’s most critical sections, as it serves as your elevator pitch to the hiring manager.

Get it wrong and tons of recruiters will skip past your CV – Get it right, and you will start seeing the interviews roll in.

To sell yourself effectively, you must give a high-level overview of your experience and skills, but you must also explain the benefits an employer will get from hiring you.

Benefits are what YOU can do for THEM.

For example, will you help them to generate more revenue? or are you a whizz at solving their biggest IT problems, saving them time and money?

By demonstrating how you will benefit potential employers, you will make yourself a much more attractive hire.

Example CV profiles

Remember, the goal is to grab the employer’s attention and make them want to learn more about you, so be concise, persuasive, and authentic in your approach. By crafting a compelling CV profile, you can set yourself apart from the competition and increase your chances of landing an interview.

Highlight in-demand skills at the top

If you really want to sell yourself in your CV , try adding a core skills section underneath the profile.

This section is essentially a bullet-pointed list of skills and knowledge that directly relate to the requirements sought by your potential employers.

Each point will jump out of the page at the reader, demonstrating that you are a good fit for the role, even with just a quick glance at your CV.

This approach helps to create an instant impact when your CV is opened, increasing your chances of receiving a response from job applications.

Relevant skills to include can range from IT skills and industry knowledge to education results and achievements. Just be sure they are pertinent to the roles you are applying for by researching relevant job advertisements.

Use power verbs

When crafting your CV, it is essential to incorporate powerful verbs .

Verbs are words that describe your actions, thus demonstrating what you actually do in the workplace – this is key to showing what you personal contribute to a company’s success.

Here are some example power verbs, along with how you can add them to your CV.

Managed – “Managed a 6-month project to improve customer retention levels.”

Optimised – “Optimised delivery driver routes to avoid overlap and ensure efficient service.”

Delivered – “Delivered the project two months ahead of schedule and under budget by £40,000.”

Streamlined – “Streamlined the accounts payable process to improve invoice processing speed and accuracy.”

Strengthened – “Strengthened brand awareness by expanding the company’s online and social media presence.”

Negotiated – “Negotiated with IT vendors, resulting in a monthly savings of £300K.”

Oversaw – “Oversaw a team of 10 software engineers in the development of client software solutions.”

Formulated – “Formulated a new performance review policy to ensure employees received regular feedback.”

Executed – “Executed six projects in a year, generating a 252% increase in revenue.”

Motivated – “Motivated team members to provide regular feedback, increasing overall team morale.”

Powe verbs will be most useful in your role descriptions, but can be used throughout your CV.

Prove your impact with achievements

Of course you must talk about your responsibilities, buy to sell yourself effectively in your CV, it’s essential to include your achievements

Achievements show the outcome your skills and experience and provide concrete evidence of your value to potential employers.

Add achievements to the end of your role descriptions to prove the impact you made at each workplace.

To make your achievements even more impressive to hiring managers – you should quantify them .

Quantifying your accomplishments by using numbers, percentages, or dollar amounts makes your achievements more impactful and memorable, and helps hiring managers understand the magnitude of your contributions.

Example CV achievements

Increased sales revenue by 25% through the implementation of a new marketing strategy.
Reduced operational costs by 15% through the introduction of a new inventory management system.
Generated £100,000 in new business sales by establishing partnerships with three new key clients.
Boosted website traffic by 50% through the creation of a targeted content marketing campaign.
Achieved a customer satisfaction rating of 95% by implementing a new customer service training program.
Reduced customer complaints by 75% through the development and implementation of a new complaint resolution process.
Improved product quality by 20% by introducing new quality control measures in the manufacturing process.
Increased employee retention by 30% through the implementation of a new employee engagement and recognition program.
Successfully managed a budget of £500,000 for a major project, delivering it on time and within budget.
Reduced project delivery time by 40% by implementing a new project management methodology.

Be specific, concise, and honest in your approach, and highlight achievements that demonstrate your suitability for the jobs you are targeting.

By effectively communicating your accomplishments, you can set yourself apart from other candidates and prove that hiring you will be worth while.

Use a professional format

Appearance is a key tool in any type of sales process.

And using a professional-looking format is crucial when selling yourself in your CV.

A well-designed CV reflects well on you as a candidate and helps to catch the eye of busy hiring managers and make a strong first impression.

It also shows recruiters that you have put effort into presenting your skills and experience in a clear, concise, and visually appealing manner.

A professional-looking CV format also conveys attention to detail, a valuable trait in many job roles.

Don’t forget a cover letter

Although this is not strictly a CV tip – you must write a cover letter every time you apply for a job.

It doesn’t have to be a whole page of A4, just a few sentences in the body of your application message will do the job perfectly.

The purpose of the cover letter is to encourage recruiters to open your CV in the first place.

It allows you to introduce yourself to the hiring manager, explain why you are interested in the role and the company, and highlight your relevant skills and experience.

When writing your cover letter, start with a friendly greeting, and a strong opening statement that captures the hiring manager’s attention and explains why you are interested in the role.

Next, highlight your relevant skills and experience, using specific examples that demonstrate your abilities.

Be sure to customise your cover letter for each job you apply for, showing that you have researched the company and understand their needs.

Finally, close with a strong statement that emphasises your interest in the position and your willingness to get started in the job as soon as possible.

On your cover letter, sell yourself without "selling" yourself

The cover letter is a component to a strong application package, but applicants can often shoot themselves in the foot. A common mistake tends to occur when candidates try to follow good advice in the wrong way. One such piece of advice is that we should do all we can to "sell ourselves." However, many misconstrue this practical point and end up sounding a little too arrogant or sometimes even naive.

Selling yourself by not selling yourself

The best way to sell yourself is by highlighting favorable aspects of your character through your resume, portfolio, and cover letter. You don't want to try and do this by telling a prospective employer how great you think you are. Some common statements that go along this line look like this:

"I know I will be the perfect fit for this organization..."
"I am the best in my field at..."
"This organization needs my help..."
"When I begin working for you, I will..."

We could go on, but the tone here comes off overly confident and arrogant, and honestly — at least for me — don't display qualities of someone I'd like to spend the majority of my day with. Instead, simply outline your good work through your application.

A better approach

Your cover letter should be used to highlight how your experience aligns with the opportunity you are responding to. You can put all of your awards and achievements on your resume, but the cover letter is an opportunity for you to show a bit of your personality.

Maybe you mention how the mission of the company aligns with your interests and passions, or maybe you reflect on a recent project the prospective employer just completed. There are many ways you can be professional, confident, and thoughtful without being "salesy."

Instead of writing, "I am the best candidate for this job. I look forward to your positive response" — yes, people write this — you could say, "If my experience and aptitude seem to align with what the company is looking for, I'd love to schedule an interview to learn more about the opportunity."

If you compose a good cover letter and overall application package, the employer will notice it. You don't have to tell them your work is good. All you have to do is show them your good work.

No Comments

Block this user.

Are you sure you want to block this user and hide all related comments throughout the site?

This is your first comment on Archinect. Your comment will be visible once approved.

Back to News List...
» Architectural Issues
» Buildings
» Culture
» Architects
» Design
↓ More
» Urban Planning
» Academia
» Technology
» Employment
» Business
» Competitions
» Sustainability
» Events
» Landscape
» Film/Video/Photography
» Web
» Furniture
» View All
× Search in:
All of Archinect

News from the Firms

“Where Design Lives:” KTGY Celebrates the Debut of an Evolved Mission and Brand Identity KTGY
Penn State Health Breaks Ground on Flad-Designed Cancer Center Flad Architects
Public Beach Port Tamayo.Revisa Architects

View all | Firms

News from the Schools

The Dalston Pavilion ‘cabinet of curiosities’ creates a platform for local outreach The London School of Architecture
College of the Canyons to Launch first Bachelor’s Degree Program in Building Performance College of the Canyons
Weitzman Welcomes New Chairs and Faculty for 2024-2025 Academic Year University of Pennsylvania

View all | Schools

Fresh Discussions

Y'all really hate New Urbanism?
Modular as a solution to US under-housing? [NYT shared link]
What is a work sample?
Helpful resource for students trying to navigate architecture firms for the first time
Where in the US can I find a custom motorized wood shutter company?

Protect your data

This site uses cookies and related technologies for site operation, and analytics as described in our Privacy Policy . You may choose to consent to our use of these technologies, reject non-essential technologies, or further manage your preferences.

CV and Cover Letter
How to sell yourself on a CV:...

How to sell yourself on a CV: do it without boasting!

9 min read · Updated on June 03, 2024

Pitch yourself well enough, and the hiring manager will snap you up!

Nobody likes a bragger – not even a humble bragger. But when it comes to your CV, you need to be brave enough to blow your own trumpet. Learning how to sell yourself on a CV without sounding arrogant, albeit a challenge, is key. Luckily, we've got you covered. In this guide, we'll share the words you should use, as well as avoid, to give off the right impression.

Why choosing the right words is essential

Usually, your CV is the first impression you'll make on a recruiter or hiring manager. And you know what they say about first impressions – you don't get a second chance to make one!

That's why your CV needs to describe you accurately and persuasively rather than oversell or undersell you. Choosing the right words to showcase your skills is, no doubt, tricky, but spending a bit of time on this can have a great impact on how you're perceived.

The best words to use when selling yourself on a CV

The Oxford English Dictionary currently lists 500,000 entries, but the average CV is only two pages long. So, you're going to need to narrow down your choices. These categories may help:

One of the very best ways to find words that effectively market yourself on your CV is to scour the job advert for keywords . Highlight those words within the advert that apply to you and try to integrate them naturally into your narrative.

Top tip: Stay objective and optimise your use of relevant keywords by including facts and figures whenever possible.

Adjectives

While excessive adjectives aren't to be advised, choosing some to highlight your professional qualities can help to bring a bit of personality to your CV. Let's take a look at some examples that you may use:

Ambitious

Approachable

Detail-oriented

Pioneering

Confident

Driven

Authoritative

Influential

Methodical

Open-minded

Analytical

Top tip: Every word you choose must be true and accurate – dishonesty on a CV is never OK.

Power verbs

Starting every bullet or sentence of your CV with a power verb is a great way of promoting your capabilities in a concise and impactful way. Here are some examples to help you get started:

Spearheaded

Established

Transformed

Restructured

Streamlined

Top tip: Stick to words that allow you to highlight your soft and hard skills on your application.

How to sell yourself on a CV – section examples

Your CV provides plenty of opportunities for you to market your skills and expertise. Next up, we'll take a closer look at how you can promote yourself for a job by maximising specific parts of your CV.

The Profile section

As the first section of your CV, the profile is a great place to sell yourself. This is your elevator pitch, your personal introduction, so you should describe yourself in such a way that the reader can immediately see how you align with the exact requirements of the vacancy. Take a look at these examples of how to pitch yourself in the Profile section for inspiration:

How to sell yourself on a CV with no experience

An animal lover working towards a Level 3 qualification in Animal Management, with significant animal care experience. Confident handling a wide range of animals, particularly horses, cats and chickens, using initiative to fully meet their needs. Willing to work outside in all weather and keen to secure a part-time role in the animal care sector.

How to sell yourself on a CV for freshers and students

A knowledgeable undergraduate student, specialising in HR and business analysis. Combines a natural flair for identifying operational problems with the ability to recommend solutions. Communicates professionally across cultures and is sensitive to diversity issues. Consistently achieves deadlines through meticulous planning and a proactive approach.

How to sell yourself on a CV for nurses

A respected and patient Mental Health Nurse, combining experience in both hospital and community settings. Recognised as a sought-after student mentor with significant leadership experience. Takes an innovative and patient-centred approach to delivering clinical excellence. Nurtures positive relationships with patients, families and multidisciplinary professionals alike. Able to manage ambiguity and possesses a comprehensive understanding of diverse clinical services, service users and stakeholders.

How to describe yourself on a CV for sales executives

An ambitious and driven Sales Executive with a natural aptitude for building rapport with business clients and developing long-term relationships. Communicates articulately with key decision-makers to source, negotiate, and close deals. Proactively seeks out new opportunities, gaining an in-depth understanding of client businesses in order to sell products aligned with their needs.

How to describe yourself on a CV for accountants

A qualified Accountant with extensive leadership and management experience across multiple sectors. Focused on simplifying systems, implementing robust controls, and improving processes. Possesses expertise in compliance, audit, analysis, reporting, P&L, acquisitions, risk management, and project management. Recognised as an extrovert and engaging leader who builds positive relationships with colleagues, clients, and suppliers alike. Adapts quickly to new industries and cultures .

How to describe yourself on a CV for administrators

A flexible and loyal Administrator with the high levels of organisation necessary to manage complex schedules and achieve even the most demanding deadlines. Interacts professionally with customers to deliver exceptional service whilst ensuring discretion and confidentiality . Financially astute and confident leading small teams.

The Professional Experience section

Having made a positive impact in the Profile section, you'll want to keep that going as you describe your professional experience . The best way to do this is to “sell, not tell.” Describe yourself by using impact statements which enable you to objectively show off your best qualities without sounding arrogant. Let's take a look at some examples:

Showcasing your skills in project management:

Handed over 12 complex projects on schedule and created a full delivery plan and handover documents to ensure successful and timely completion of 3 further projects

Successfully integrated a new business into the existing organisation during the pandemic, with no disruption to business as usual, including incorporating 100 staff plus applications across 25 locations

Showcasing your skills in financial management:

Turned a 6-figure deficit into a surplus by identifying new income streams and reducing salary costs

Achieved multi-million-pound cost savings by designing and building an Azure cloud platform providing public cloud resources

Showcasing your skills in team leadership:

Built the communications team from scratch and provided training and skills development opportunities to enable the team to build links across the community

Supervised and coached teams of up to 10 staff and provided a safe environment for all

Showcasing your skills in customer service:

Patiently communicated with and advised confused and lost passengers despite significant language barriers

Built a loyal customer base due to award-winning customer service and a 5* rating on review sites

Showcasing your skills in organisation:

Played a key role in organising the society's first-ever Winter Ball for 130 attendees, delivering within budget and selling out to achieve a profit

Consistently achieved strict publication deadlines

Words to avoid when selling yourself on your CV

Now you know how to sell yourself in your job application document, let's take a moment to find out what not to do. There are some words that just have no place on a CV. Worse still, if you choose to include them, you could be doing yourself a disservice. Here are the faux pas to avoid:

You either sound quite old or like a piece of steak. This is quite a divisive word for those reasons, and most CV writers will advise you to avoid it.

Hardworking

Being hardworking is the least that can be expected of you. It's also a word that pops up frequently on the most junior of CVs and has become a bit of a CV cliche. Try to find a more dynamic word to use instead. “Reliable” and “enthusiastic” also fall into this category.

Experienced

Everyone is experienced, whether they've been doing something for a day or a decade. When you're selling yourself on your CV, aim for precise over generic every time.

Even if you love your job and the people you work with and serve, “passionate” probably isn't the right word here. It's overused on CVs and, in most of those instances, it's not very credible.

Responsible for

Saying that you're “responsible for” something describes your job, not you. You can almost certainly delete these two words with no detrimental effect on your sentence. Ditch the tedium and, rather than listing your responsibilities, show off your impact and achievements instead.

Bonus tip: always tailor your application to the job

Finally, remember to always tailor your CV to each role. Every vacancy will be different, so even when you think you've written the perfect CV that describes you to a tee, you'll still need to tweak it and make small adjustments to ensure that it accurately – and honestly – reflects the requirements of the role, the company, and the industry.

Furthermore, don't forget that there's another sales document that you can maximise – knowing how to sell yourself in a cover letter is just as important as crafting your CV. Take the time to research the business and reflect on the job advert (and criteria) as you finalise your application.

Key takeaways

By this point, you should be feeling ready to get started. To recap, these are the main points to remember when you're wondering how to sell yourself on a CV:

Use a few adjectives and plenty of powerful verbs

Align your vocabulary with the requirements in the job advert

Make sure you're honest but unique

Tailor the CV to every role you apply for

Avoid overused words and CV cliches

Get them highly interested in you

Learning how to sell yourself on your CV is indeed one of the best ways to boost your chances of success. There's no room to keep mum about your skills when you're competing for the top spot. So long as you follow our advice, you should have no problem asserting your value without coming across as arrogant. Stick to our rules, and you'll go far!

If you'd like professional input before you apply, why not send your CV for a free CV review ? With expert advice on areas for improvement, you'll be a cut above the rest.

This article was originally written by Jen David and has been updated by Charlotte Grainger.

Career Advice Newsletter

Our experts gather the best career & CV tips weekly. Delivered weekly, always free.

Thanks! Career advice is on its way.

Share this article:

Let's stay in touch.

Subscribe today to get job tips and career advice that will come in handy.

Your information is secure. Please read our privacy policy for more information.

CV writing services
Accessories
About PurpleCV
Meet the team
PurpleCV Reviews
Social Impact

How To Really Sell Yourself In Your Personal Statement

The personal statement is often considered the most challenging part of a CV to write.

The perfect personal statement should succinctly communicate your best and most relevant qualities, skills and experience, whilst giving the reader an idea of who you are.

It should draw attention to the best parts of your CV and perhaps offer information you’ve left out elsewhere.

A well-written personal statement is a great way to add impact to your CV. Our guide explains how to really sell yourself in your personal statement.

Why have a personal statement?

Sometimes called a profile or career summary, the personal statement sits at the top of your CV just under your name and contact details.

Your personal statement gives you the opportunity to introduce your CV as if you were presenting it in person.

It enables you to distil the most important elements from your CV and draw the reader’s attention to them immediately.

Essentially, it’s an opportunity to say, ‘Look at this! This is what makes me perfect for the job!’ As such, it’s an opportunity not to be missed.

It’s easiest to tackle your personal statement after you’ve put together the rest of your CV. That way you can draw on the best bits of the information you’ve already compiled.

What to include in your personal statement

A good way to structure your personal statement is to break it down into sections:

Who you are – start off with a sentence or two summing up who you are in terms of education, experience and interests.

What you can offer – this is where you can talk about specific skills, knowledge and experience that fit the job you’re applying for. What have you achieved so far? What makes you an unusual or attractive candidate?

Your career aim – finish with a line or two about the next steps you’re looking to take. What sort of role, organisation or challenges would be right for you?

SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER HERE

By subscribing to our newsletter, you agree to our Ts and Cs .

Keep it concise

The best personal statements are succinct – a large block of text isn’t likely to hold a reader’s interest.

Stick to a maximum of five or six lines. If it’s any longer than that, it’s probably too complicated.

One way to write concisely and effectively is to use the ‘smart’ third person. Here’s an example:

Managed a team of ten volunteers, coordinated busy performance schedule and controlled audience flow in and out of multiple venues.

Starting the sentence with a verb makes it dynamic and energetic, whilst missing out the pronoun (‘managed’ rather than ‘I managed’) keeps it short and punchy.

The ‘smart’ third person enables you to convey information succinctly without sounding too formal or too personal.

Cut out the clichés

Recruiters see hundreds of CVs, and all too often they see personal statements riddled with the same tired old clichés . Here’s an example:

An enthusiastic and hard-working team player with extensive marketing experience. Possesses excellent communication skills and strong attention to detail. Thrives when working under pressure and relishes the opportunity to solve problems.

This is exactly the sort of personal statement recruiters see time and time again. Although it’s fairly well-written, it offers almost no information.

It’s easy to claim you’re a team player with excellent communication skills – lots of people do. But without evidence to back up those claims, they’re just empty words.

Instead of blandly listing your qualities, include specific skills and experience which demonstrate that you have those qualities.

Words like ‘enthusiastic’ and ‘hard-working’ are used too often to have any impact. If you want to be noticed, try to offer recruiters something unique.

Personalise it

It’s important to take time and care over your personal statement. This means tailoring it to each and every individual job application.

You don’t have to completely overhaul the whole thing each time – but highlight particular skills and experience based on keywords in the job description.

This will show recruiters not only that you’re the right person for the job, but that you really want the job as well.

If you’d like a professionally written, tailor-made CV, get in touch with us today – we’d be delighted to help!

A well-written personal statement is an excellent way to enhance your CV by creating impact and highlighting some of the great parts of your CV. Getting it right can take a bit of practice, though.

That’s why we’ve put together an interactive game where you can help some famous historical and fictional characters write their perfect personal statement.

Put your personal statement writing skills to the test by playing below!

Cover Letter Writing Advice

CV Writing Advice

CV Writing Services

Interview Advice

Job Search Advice

Subscribe to our newsletter!

Related articles, how to write a management cv.

If you’re unsure about how to write a management CV, we’ll explain all you need to know in this guide.... Read more...

Soft Skills: What They Are And How To Highlight Them

One of the most common questions we receive is: “What are soft skills?” And perhaps more importantly: “Can you give... Read more...

Guide To Creating A Great Marketing CV + Example

Wondering what the secret to a great marketing CV is? We’ll share our top tips with you in this guide.... Read more...

How To Write A Retail Assistant Cover Letter That Gets Read

Don’t overlook the importance of a well-written cover letter for a retail assistant job. According to CareerBuilder, 45% of job... Read more...

How To Write A Career Change Cover Letter That Gets Read

By Ian Taylor, CV-Library Even if it’s not required according to the job advertisement, a cover letter is always a... Read more...

How To End A Cover Letter: Examples Of The Perfect Cover Letter Ending

Your CV is up to date, tailored to the job spec – and triple proof-read. However, if you’re sending off... Read more...

How To Address A Cover Letter With Real Life Examples

Crafted a tailored job application that shows you’re perfect for the role? There’s one last step to impress employers -... Read more...

How To Write A Supporting Statement For A Job Application With Template

Wondering how to write a supporting statement and just what makes one different from a cover letter? The purpose of... Read more...

How To Write a Cover Letter For An Internship

Unsure how to write a cover letter for an internship? We’ve got you covered. It can be tricky knowing how... Read more...

How To Write A Speculative Cover Letter With Template

Wondering how to write a speculative cover letter? A speculative CV with an accompanying cover letter is a way of... Read more...

Test Your Vocabulary With PurpleCV’s New Online Quiz

Wordsmith wannabes, listen up! 2019’s newest additions to the Oxford English Dictionary have been announced and we've got a test... Read more...

How To Write A Cover Letter That Makes You Stand Out

You’ve been trawling jobs boards and LinkedIn – and the job description sounds perfect. You’ve managed to avoid these common CV... Read more...

The Importance Of A Cover Letter

Have you ever heard the expression “Put your best foot forward”? When it comes to potential employment, such a practice... Read more...

How To Write A Stand-Out Graduate CV And Cover Letter

Wondering how to make a stand-out graduate CV and cover letter? So you’ve come out of the other side of... Read more...

The Basics Of A Cover Letter

Getting the basics of a cover letter right is essential if you want to ensure you are seriously considered for... Read more...

🍪 Cookie consent

We value your privacy! Please take a moment to customise your cookie preferences. By clicking 'Submit' you agree to the use of cookies as described below:

Get the Reddit app

CSCareerQuestions is a community for those who are in the process of entering or are already part of the computer science field. Our goal is to help navigate and share challenges of the industry and strategies to be successful .

How do you sell yourself in a cover letter with no professional experience?

Two months ago, I graduated from boot camp. I’m 30 with a liberal arts degree, so I’m trying to shift from customer service work to something more challenging and rewarding. I’ve been working in my portfolio site, as well as a few projects that don’t just look like school obligations. Last month, I began sending out my resume. I focused on the relevant aspects of my non-programming jobs, added my skills from boot camp, and listed a couple projects.

Problem is my cover letter: I don’t know how to sell myself without sounding super green (which, to be fair, I totally am). What sort of introduction helps? Being super frank about how I’m taking a left-turn shift into programming because I love it, or make programming sound like the next logical progression of a totally logical career?

And if anyone has general advice about finding an entry level position without experience, let me know!

Strategies For Earning Money By Writing

Ghost writing, copywriting, technical writing, social media writing, magazine and newspaper writing, frequently asked questions (faqs).

Do you have a way with words? You could turn your prowess with pronouns, verbs and adjectives into a lucrative side hustle when you learn how to make money by writing. Many large and small websites hire freelance writers to produce their content, offering you a platform to share your insights and an opportunity to make some extra dough. Even those who have never written anything besides personal social media posts or journal entries can find a place to sell their writing. This list provides a step-by-step guide to how to earn money by writing and will answer all your questions, whether you’re a beginning or veteran scribe.

You can make money by writing in many different ways, including blogging, ghost writing, penning reviews and working for small businesses. You have a greater chance of being published by pursuing several options simultaneously instead of prioritizing one. It’s like baiting multiple fishhooks. The more you cast, the better your odds of pulling something in.

You will make the most money by working for bigger sites and businesses, and you can do nearly all of it remotely. Ghostwriting pays better than blogging because businesses want more polished, focused writing. Blogging, however, may take less time and allow you the chance to complete more assignments. Journalism gives you greater opportunities for creativity in your work, and social media writing appeals to those who like pithy, funny writing. Copywriting and technical writing can be drier, but they also provide higher payment and steadier work than other writing. Here is a breakdown of the main ways to make money while writing.

Blogging means publishing content online written especially for that publication. Individuals, businesses, journalists, influencers, homemakers and many more publish blogs, which are often but not always written in first person. Anyone can write their own blog and publish it through a self-publishing platform, such as Medium, Blogger or WordPress.

The time and effort required for blogging depends on what you write about. For instance, if you run in your spare time and decide to start a running blog, you may be able to write several short blogs about running a race in under an hour. But if you want to explore the ethical implications of artificial intelligence using reliable sources, it could take hours to finish one post. The better the writing and sourcing, the better a post will perform, so making the extra effort to be informed and publishing grammatically correct copy is always worth it.

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024.

You don’t need experience to become a blogger. Anyone can do it, though it may take a while for you to settle into a style and voice that becomes popular. You need readers to make money on a blog. People make money on blogs in several ways:

Advertising : You can sign on with a blogging ad network or sell your own ads to local businesses to make money.
Sponsorship : You can write about a sponsor’s products in return for money, though you must disclose that you received compensation for your post.
Syndication : You can sign on with syndication networks to distribute your blog on larger networks that will pay for your work.

How much can you make from blogging? The answer varies according to how often you publish, what type of payment method you use, and the popularity of your work. Some top bloggers make six figures per year. Sponsorships with big companies like Walmart that pay people to hawk their goods can be lucrative, paying thousands of dollars. But most bloggers make a few hundred dollars per month, enough to pay off a car or credit card bill but not enough to live on.

Blogging, ghost writing, copywriting, technical writing, social media writing and newspaper and ... [+] magazine writing are six of the most lucrative ways to earn money writing.

Ghost writing is the most lucrative type of writing. Ghost writers channel the voice of a third party, writing as though they were that person or business and presenting their ideas in first person. Businesses and thought leaders use ghost writers to take their thoughts and ideas and present them in a prettier package.

Ghost writing can take many forms. You might produce communications for a company CEO or create a book about an important event for a historical society. Every job is a little different. Ghost writing usually requires several years of writing experience, though if you are a subject matter expert on something—for example, if you are a nurse asked to write articles for a nursing degree program—then you may be able to get a job without writing experience. Time spent on an assignment will vary, but it takes longer than blogging. Ghost writing demands high-level clarity, grammar and readability.

You can make money by earning an hourly or per-project rate from the client. Most ghost writing gigs pay well, from $50 per hour and more. Some ghost writers pull in six figures per year, though those have extensive experience. To get started, search LinkedIn for the words “freelance writer” or “writer.” Or think about companies you would like to work with and send an email to the hiring manager introducing yourself and spelling out your expertise. You can also sign on with agencies that hire out ghost writers to businesses. Again, send your resume and a letter of introduction (LOI) to the agency hiring manager or search job ads online.

Copywriting is similar to ghostwriting, but sometimes you will receive a byline and the writing is not always presented in first person. Copywriting includes copy on businesses’ websites, material for pamphlets, mission statements, advertising, newsletters and more. People with copywriting skills are persuasive and clear writers good at conveying information and encouraging sales.

You can start with simple copywriting jobs and work your way up to higher-paying ones. Experience is required for bigger companies, but small businesses around your town might hire an inexperienced writer. You can begin by approaching them and offering to, for instance, rewrite their website or start a monthly newsletter. As you gain knowledge and confidence, you can reach out online to larger places. Follow freelance job boards to find new opportunities, interact with companies on LinkedIn to get your name out there, and send LOIs to hiring managers wherever you want to work.

You can get a little creative to find jobs, too. Find newsletters for companies you love or share expertise with. Send them an LOI outlining your subject matter background and what you could contribute. Copywriting work requires precision and often background research, and it takes longer than many other types of writing. You can make a good living as, like with ghost writing, clients tend to pay on the higher end of the payscale for copywriters, often $40 per hour and more. The best copywriters can make more than $150,000 per year.

Technical writing refers to communicating information about niche topics, such as medicine, engineering, manufacturing or construction. It can also encompass things like the directions to put something together or operate an electronic device. The aim is to create digestible, informative content while eliminating jargon.

Technical writing requires a great deal of writing experience, but it can be lucrative. Few people have the skills to boil down information and serve it back up in the right format. It can take hours to finish even a short writing assignment because you need to get every word right and leave out extraneous ones. But most jobs are paid per hour ($60 and up for experienced writers), so the time and effort pay off.

A lot of technical writing jobs are full time. But you can find part-time opportunities using job sites such as LinkedIn, Indeed, Monster and more. Taking courses in technical writing could be a worthy investment, as that background will open up new opportunities and give you valuable experience.

Technical writing, a great way to earn money by writing, may involve simplifying jargon and ... [+] complexities for a lay audience.

Social media writing is a relatively new way to make money. Many businesses hire people to write captions on Instagram , video descriptions on YouTube , thought leadership posts on LinkedIn and much more. This is an excellent entry point for writers with little formal experience.

Social media writing pays more modestly than other types of business writing, anywhere from $15-$35 per hour. However, it takes less effort. You can often bang out lots of posts in an hour, and very little knowledge or experience is needed, beyond knowing the character limits for different social platforms. You can find jobs by looking at writing job sites or reaching out directly to businesses with LOIs. Try small businesses in your hometown first to get some examples for your resume before targeting more prominent places.

Magazine and newspaper writing is one of the more specialized forms of writing to make money. But if you have some training and are more interested in writing as a means of changing the world and informing people, it is a worthy pursuit. You can start by publishing pieces in hometown newspapers or niche magazines.

You won’t break the bank with journalism writing. Even some bigger papers and publications pay less than $1,000 per story, and you would need to string together a lot of assignments to make a living. But to make extra spending money and perhaps affect change, you can’t beat journalism. You will need to learn the publication’s style guide and adhere to it for pieces you submit. Editors make assignments, which you can get by pitching (sending a cold email) to the editor explaining your story idea and why you are the right person to write it.

Time and effort vary depending on the scope of the story. Many can be quite involved. Editors often prefer to work with people who have experience, so build up your resume with pitches to smaller publications first.

Bottom Line

Writing can be a fun way to make extra money, or you can even turn it into a high-paying career with the right experience. Whether you pen blogs, website copy or social media posts, you can find an outlet that’s “write” for you.

How Much Do Writers Make?

Writers can make a decent salary depending on their experience level and who they write for. How much writers make may depend on on where they work, how many clicks their work generates, and how long the job took.

The salary range for a writer, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , is a median of $73,690 per year, or $35.43 per hour. Income rises with higher experience levels.

What Websites Pay You To Write?

You can find hundreds of websites that pay for writing. A few of the most popular include:

The Penny Hoarder

Bustle

Transitions Abroad

Vibrant Life

Scary Mommy

Paying websites look for writing they think will draw readers. Using search engine optimization (SEO) techniques, such as incorporating keywords that people search for, can generate higher traffic, so be sure to mention any SEO knowledge when you apply, as that will help your chances. The more views you generate, the more money the website makes. Create a portfolio of your past work that you can share when you apply for jobs that shows your best efforts.

How Can You Get Paid To Write Reviews?

You can get paid to write reviews across a number of platforms for products ranging from books to vacuum cleaners. Some of the most popular include Get Reviewed , Kirkus , UserTesting and Amazon Vine , though note that you get paid in products for that site.

To become a reviewer, you may need no experience at all for many sites. They value trustworthiness and honest feedback. Some hire people they find through online reviews they have already posted. Other sites require more extensive background in writing reviews. For instance, if you want to work for DotDash, one of the largest editorial operations on the web that runs lots of reviews across its sites, you will need writing experience for a major website and product expertise.

How Can You Get Paid To Write Letters?

You can write letters and get paid by watching for these jobs on freelance sites such as Upwork , Contently , compose.ly and Fiverr , which serve as clearinghouses to hire writers for businesses. A business may need one letter or a series. You can gain repeat work if you do a good job.

You may have seen TikTok and YouTube videos about writing handwritten notes for businesses and earning $5 per letter. This is a scam that has been debunked by multiple websites. You won’t find companies paying you a lot of money to write handwritten letters. They want polished, professional copy for communications with clients and customers, and you must have experience doing this type of work. It falls under copywriting and can pay $40 per hour or more.

How Can You Get Paid To Write As A Beginner?

How can you get paid to write for beginners? Breaking in with little experience can be difficult. Some aspiring writers choose to take volunteer gigs to build their portfolio, but you can probably find low-paying work that will do the same for you.

Search job boards such as Indeed, ZipRecruiter, Monster and LinkedIn. You can also start a blog of your own with no experience, though it will take time to monetize it using the strategies outlined above. You could also submit poetry or prose to literary magazines, which usually pay an honorarium, or submit finished essays to magazines or newspapers. As you gain experience, you can approach higher-paying markets.

Editorial Standards
Reprints & Permissions

Join The Conversation

One Community. Many Voices. Create a free account to share your thoughts.

Forbes Community Guidelines

Our community is about connecting people through open and thoughtful conversations. We want our readers to share their views and exchange ideas and facts in a safe space.

In order to do so, please follow the posting rules in our site's Terms of Service. We've summarized some of those key rules below. Simply put, keep it civil.

Your post will be rejected if we notice that it seems to contain:

False or intentionally out-of-context or misleading information
Insults, profanity, incoherent, obscene or inflammatory language or threats of any kind
Attacks on the identity of other commenters or the article's author
Content that otherwise violates our site's terms.

User accounts will be blocked if we notice or believe that users are engaged in:

Continuous attempts to re-post comments that have been previously moderated/rejected
Racist, sexist, homophobic or other discriminatory comments
Attempts or tactics that put the site security at risk
Actions that otherwise violate our site's terms.

So, how can you be a power user?

Stay on topic and share your insights
Feel free to be clear and thoughtful to get your point across
‘Like’ or ‘Dislike’ to show your point of view.
Protect your community.
Use the report tool to alert us when someone breaks the rules.

Thanks for reading our community guidelines. Please read the full list of posting rules found in our site's Terms of Service.

IMAGES

How to Sell Yourself in a Cover Letter (With Examples & Tips)
Samples of Resume Cover Letters that Show How to Sell Yourself
sales cover letter template
Sales Cover Letter Example & Writing Guide (Free Download)
How to Sell Yourself in a Cover Letter? Guide + Examples
4+ Retail Cover Letter Examples (with In-Depth Guidance)

VIDEO

when you sell yourself
when you sell yourself to me||gacha||vent||
In Sales, Everything You Do Will Be Based On How You Sell Yourself. #salesandmarketing #subto
when you sell yourself to me
Top 15 Words to Include on Your Resume + Sales Interview Tips to Get The Job
When you sell yourself in SBG🫣💀 @Mexiemus

COMMENTS

How To Sell Yourself in a Cover Letter (With Tips and Examples)
On your cover letter, you can explain how your employment history prepared you for pursuing the position you're applying for and how your skills make you a qualified candidate. The employer can gain a clearer understanding of who you are as a potential employee. 4. Showcase your writing skills.
How To Sell Yourself In A Cover Letter (With Examples)
To sell yourself in a cover letter, first match your skills and values with that of the employer. Use the four paragraph, 250-400 words structure of a cover letter to demonstrate your skills and how they can be used for the employer. Use keywords from the job description to stand out.
How to sell yourself in a cover letter (with example)
How to sell yourself in a cover letter. The following steps can guide you on how to sell yourself in a cover letter: 1. Examine the job description. Organisations announce open job positions with a brief description of the qualities, skills and experience they require of a professional. Review the list of requirements for the role and identify ...
How to Sell Yourself in a Cover Letter? Guide + Examples
Follow correct cover letter structure: Use a professional cover letter outline with 3-4 paragraphs. Set cover letter line spacing at 1.15, with 1-inch margins. Write with a respected cover letter font. Start with a businesslike cover letter heading with your contact info, the date, and the hiring manager's info.
How to Sell Yourself in a Cover Letter
Hence, stay away from over-worn words that you can see in 90% of the Cover letters out there: Examples: "Self-starter", "Detail-oriented". "I`m confident I would be the perfect person for the job". And some more: "To whom it may concern". "I`m not sure you know". "Please, feel free to".
How to Sell Yourself in a Cover Letter (With Steps and Tips)
A well-composed cover letter is particularly important if you're applying for a job that requires written communication, as it shows the hiring manager that you're suitable for the role. Impressing a hiring manager with the writing in your cover letter can motivate them to invite you for an interview. 5. Customise each cover letter.
How to Sell Yourself in a Cover Letter
1. Keep it short. Cover letters must be brief and dynamic; three paragraphs should suffice. The first paragraph should identify the job you are seeking. The second should summarize your career and accomplishments. The final paragraph should request a response, such as an interview invitation.
How to Sell Yourself in a Cover Letter (With Tips and Samples)
I look forward to the possibility of discussing how my achievements align with the needs of your team. Sincerely, [Your Full Name] Sample 2: Demonstrating Adaptability and Learning Orientation. Dear [Employer's Name], I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name].
Selling Yourself in Your Cover Letter
Refer to everything you learned about yourself from your assessments. Pull accomplishments from your resume, and show in your cover letter why you are a benefit to the company—because you can accomplish X, Y, and Z. Go beyond simply stating your features. Select the most impressive quantifiable achievements, reword them—or better yet ...
Selling Yourself in Your Cover Letter
Your cover letter has two important roles: (1) it's a marketing document designed to sell a product (you), and (2): it's a business document that, while giving a glimpse of your personality, needs to remain professional. It therefore stands to reason that lessons from those who sell, and those who write for business, can teach us a little something about composing an effective letter.
Selling Yourself in Your Cover Letter
Selling Yourself in Your Cover Letter. Your cover letter has two important roles: (1) it's a marketing document designed to sell a product (you), and (2): it's a business document that, while giving a glimpse of your personality, needs to remain professional. It therefore stands to reason that lessons from those who sell, and those who write ...
How do you sell yourself in a cover letter?
Mastering the Art of Cover Letter: Sell Yourself in Style • Sell Yourself in Style • Learn the secrets to crafting a compelling cover letter that grabs atten...
How To Sell Yourself on a Resume in 5 Steps (With Steps)
Here are five steps you can follow to sell yourself to an employer on your resume: 1. Use professional contact information. The first step toward standing out when submitting a resume for a job application is to ensure you're providing employers with accurate and professional contact information.
How to Make a Good Cover Letter
Make a list of the most frequently used words in the job posting; those are the words you'll want to try and incorporate. Do this for each cover letter you write so that they're tailored to the jobs you're pursuing. This kind of customization is a key part of understanding how to make a good cover letter. Moreover, highlight the skills that are ...
How to Sell Yourself
Make a positive impact by keeping your writing concise and to the point. Check for spelling and grammatical errors. This will show that you have effective written communication skills, an eye-for-detail and accuracy. These are all key skills in most career paths. Check Sample Email to Employee for Not Reporting to Work.
Selling Yourself in Your Cover Letter
Your cover letter is a marketing document designed to sell a product—you—and a business document to give employers a glimpse of your personality. Employers Schools. Login. Rankings. Blog. Guides. Internships. Vault Law. Career Advice. Selling Yourself in Your Cover Letter. Your cover letter is a marketing document designed to sell a product ...
How to Sell Yourself with a Winning Cover Letter
Cover letters usually have three parts. Opening - states your interest in the company and the job. Tells how you found out about the job opening or the company and why you are interested. Middle - tells the employer what you have to offer the company by highlighting one or two qualifications you think would be of greatest interest.
How to sell yourself on a CV (with steps and reasoning)
5. Personalise your CV. Remember to make all examples and word choices relevant to the job advertisement itself. As a basic requirement, it's sensible to pick out keywords from the job advertisement and use them in your CV. Highlight them in the personal statement so that the ATS software can quickly see them.
How to sell yourself in your CV in 6 steps + Examples
Here are some example power verbs, along with how you can add them to your CV. Managed - "Managed a 6-month project to improve customer retention levels.". Optimised - "Optimised delivery driver routes to avoid overlap and ensure efficient service.". Delivered - "Delivered the project two months ahead of schedule and under ...
On your cover letter, sell yourself without "selling" yourself
Selling yourself by not selling yourself. The best way to sell yourself is by highlighting favorable aspects of your character through your resume, portfolio, and cover letter. You don't want to try and do this by telling a prospective employer how great you think you are. Some common statements that go along this line look like this:
How to sell yourself on a CV: do it without boasting!
Having made a positive impact in the Profile section, you'll want to keep that going as you describe your professional experience. The best way to do this is to "sell, not tell.". Describe yourself by using impact statements which enable you to objectively show off your best qualities without sounding arrogant.
How To Really Sell Yourself In Your Personal Statement
The perfect personal statement should succinctly communicate your best and most relevant qualities, skills and experience, whilst giving the reader an idea of who you are. It should draw attention to the best parts of your CV and perhaps offer information you've left out elsewhere. A well-written personal statement is a great way to add ...
How do you sell yourself in a cover letter with no ...
Shoot for entry-level jobs with lower-tier companies then upgrade once you have 1-2 years of experience. You're not going to get your first job with Google at age 30 with no experience. Also, be willing to relocate and cast a wide net. You're late to the game and that's going to make it way harder. TBH your best bet is a referral.
How to Write a Cover Letter That Will Get You a Job
So let's talk about how to do cover letters right., First, understand the point of a cover letter., The whole idea of a cover letter is that it can help the employer see you as more than just ...
Here's How You Can Make Money Writing
Advertising: You can sign on with a blogging ad network or sell your own ads to local businesses to make money.; Sponsorship: You can write about a sponsor's products in return for money, though ...

How To Sell Yourself In A Cover Letter (With Examples)

Why Is It Important To Sell Yourself In A Cover Letter?

Recent Job Searches

How to Sell Yourself in a Cover Letter

In This Guide:

Upload & Check Your Resume

Email to Send Resume: How to Build Yours [+ Template]

How to Sell Yourself in a Cover Letter

How to Convey Who You Are in a Cover Letter With Hobbies, Activities & Interests

Related Articles

Why is it important to sell yourself in a cover letter?

5 Tips to Sell Yourself in a Cover Letter

Tell a Compelling Story

Highlight Transferable Skills

Emphasize Soft Skills

Show Professional Growth

Demonstrate Industry Knowledge

Explore More Helpful Contents

Sample Letters

iR Job Alert

Popular Jobs

JUST IN: Pandemonium as robbers attack man inside bank premises in Delta, cart away huge cash

Selling Yourself in Your Cover Letter

Selling Yourself in Your Cover Letter

Recommended Articles

Forgot Password?

Create Account

How to Sell Yourself

Match yourself to the company’s requirements…

Market yourself…

Promote your interpersonal skills…

Demonstrate your industry awareness…

Create the right impression…

Don’t cut & paste…

Related Posts:

+ Categories

Recent Posts

If you're seeing this message - that means some of our site's content isn't loading properly. Click here to reload and try another method.

Community Employment Services | Perth

How to sell yourself in your CV

Add a sales-pitch-style CV profile

Example CV profiles

Highlight in-demand skills at the top

Use power verbs

Prove your impact with achievements

Example CV achievements

Use a professional format

Don’t forget a cover letter

On your cover letter, sell yourself without "selling" yourself

Selling yourself by not selling yourself

A better approach

Similar articles on Archinect that may interest you...

No Comments

News from the Firms

News from the Schools

Fresh Discussions

How to sell yourself on a CV: do it without boasting!

Why choosing the right words is essential

The best words to use when selling yourself on a CV

Adjectives

Power verbs

How to sell yourself on a CV – section examples

The Profile section

How to sell yourself on a CV with no experience

How to sell yourself on a CV for freshers and students

How to sell yourself on a CV for nurses

How to describe yourself on a CV for sales executives

How to describe yourself on a CV for accountants

How to describe yourself on a CV for administrators

The Professional Experience section

Showcasing your skills in project management:

Showcasing your skills in financial management:

Showcasing your skills in team leadership:

Showcasing your skills in customer service:

Showcasing your skills in organisation:

Words to avoid when selling yourself on your CV

Hardworking

Experienced

Responsible for

Bonus tip: always tailor your application to the job