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How to write a killer cover letter: 6 fresh strategies for the new normal.

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It's time to create a killer cover letter.

With 28 million Americans receiving some form of unemployment compensation right now, job seekers are facing a difficult economic climate. It appears the $1200 stimulus check isn’t going to materialize in the immediate future , and only three states have agreed to $400 in extra unemployment benefits. So, if. you are out of work in Montana, Kentucky or West Virginia: Congratulations. You’re getting some good news that most Americans won’t receive. Meanwhile, the need to find meaningful work has never been greater. That’s why it’s crucial to concentrate on a killer cover letter. Some may say that a cover letter is a thing of the past - because your resumé speaks for itself. But the fact is, your resumé can’t talk, or write, and your LinkedIn profile is never the whole story. That’s why it’s a good idea for you to get going on the number one tool you need in the new normal: a killer cover letter.

• Cut the Cake - my writing coach turned me on to the work of Jack Grapes . His book, Method Writing , talks about how you have to cut out the “birthday cake” if you want your message to be clear. In Grapes’ world of words, “birthday cake” is the extra stuff you don’t need in any sentence or phrase. Are you ready to skip dessert? Look at all the adjectives and extras you’ve got in your cover letter: “As a dedicated self-starter, I know I can handle multitasking while staying professional.” What happens if you cut out the birthday cake at the front and the back? It’s counter-intuitive, but sometimes what you leave out actually makes your writing stronger, not weaker. Because the simplest message is the strongest: “I know I can handle multi-tasking. And here’s why....”
• But Don’t Stop with Why - does your cover letter contain the word “because”? This critical word can transform a sentence from the commonplace into the compelling. Example: “As a manager, it was my job to know everything about the restaurant, from health code violations to the ingredients of all the dishes.” Add a dash of because - does it get a little tastier? “Because I had to handle everything from health code violations to the ingredients of all the dishes, I understand the importance of delivering on the details. Because of my work with 30 or more employees on any given night, I learned how to communicate across generations. It’s because of this experience that I know I can help you in the following ways...” Don’t stop with why - it’s not enough. Not only is “because” the classic answer to any “why” question. That single word can transform your story from a first-person history lesson into a powerful way to create service, value and impact .
• Two for the Show - can you find an opportunity in your cover letter to include the words, “so that...”? These two words, like the word “because”, will help you to see the most valuable aspect of your cover letter (and the aspect that most amateurs dismiss): it ain’t all about you. Your experience enables you to be of service, so that you can create impact for your future employer. Ask yourself, is your cover letter about the past, or about your potential? Two small words - so that - can point you in the direction of powerful service, possibility and opportunity. “I’ve studied finance so that I can create market analysis at a deeper level...” “I became a counselor so that I could help troubled teens get back into school...” I wrote those examples so that you would see what I’m saying...did it work?
• Be That Thing - there are skills that your employer desires. Skills that perhaps you have developed in the restaurant industry. Or in retail. Travel. Tourism. Or some other market that has been punished in the coronavirus economy. Look beyond your title and see your skills. What is that thing - that one thing - that you can deliver? What’s that one thing that your employer wants and needs? Take off the label (the job title) and you’ll see the thing that really matters. Write down a list of your skills - your talents. Write out a list of characteristics that your employer wants. See any synergies? These high-level skills transcend your role or your previous company. Can you tell a story around that thing - that high-level skill that everyone wants and needs? If you can, you’re on track to transition into a new role (and maybe even a new industry). For more ideas, you might want to discover how to tell a one-word story .
• Seek to Serve - so many cover letters are written in the first person: I, me, my. Or, by extension, first person plural: we, us, our. A first person history isn’t compelling, it’s commonplace. “I did this, I did that, I bragged and I noticed you just fell asleep.” Top cover letters contain some verbal jujitsu that changes the conversation. What happens if you make the second person first? Second person, of course, is you . I’m not talking about you, dear reader. I mean the you that’s right in front of you: your potential hiring manager. How does your cover letter focus on their needs? Here’s a quick example that combines several of the elements I’ve shared so far: “It’s because of my experience in one of Manhattan’s busiest restaurants that I understand the importance of follow-through. In managing a team of 30 and serving over 900 plates a night, I understand service, commitment and persistence. It’s because of my experience I can bring that kind of clarity to the contact tracing team, and to your organization - no matter how many deadlines I have to face.” Do you see the shift to second person?
• From Conviction to Connection - does your cover letter reveal your passion, values and convictions? I’m not talking about declaring your religious beliefs or explaining how much you love your family. I’m talking about the professional skills that matter most to you. Skills like perseverance, creativity, innovation and communication. Knowing who you are is useful, but connecting your convictions to your career is priceless. That’s the place where work doesn’t feel like work anymore. When conviction connects, your career is merely an extension of your values. Your identity. Your unique talents and abilities. When what you care about most becomes what you do on a daily basis, you’ve discovered a role that isn’t really work. It’s an opportunity for you to express who you are - and serve at the highest possible level. Does that sound impossible right now? Read on, MacDuff.

Today, we’re faced with the toughest job market in anyone’s lifetime. It’s easy to get discouraged, falling into the mindset that your convictions can’t be a career. That choices don’t exist for you. But, I ask you: Is that true? I don’t mean, true like ‘do you believe it’? I mean true, as in the law of gravity or the fact that water boils at 100 degrees centigrade?

What’s true is that opportunities are all around us, even in a punishing economy. Those opportunities belong to those who can pivot and reinvent in the new normal. There’s never just one job that you can do, no matter who you are. You have capabilities and skills that are untapped. Because that’s how we are wired as human beings: resilience and reinvention are built into the system, like five fingers on a hand. We all have the ability to change, even though we may not always want to. Why not start small - with transforming your cover letter, and getting clear about the solutions you can provide?

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How to Write a Killer Cover Letter

You’ve found the perfect job, your resume is ready to go, but there’s one last thing on your to-do list: the dreaded cover letter .

While it might seem easy to write a one-page letter touting your strengths, many job seekers struggle to understand what, exactly, an employer is looking for and how to translate that into a couple of paragraphs.

Cover letters are unavoidable, and many employers consider them the most important part of any job application. As much as you’d prefer to let your resume speak for itself, your cover letter is truly your chance to make the best first impression. This is your opportunity to showcase your talents, stand out from competing candidates, and help hiring managers get to know you outside of your resume.

It’s time to give that cover letter the TLC it deserves. Below are a few simple tips to help you write a cover letter that lands your dream job:

1. Always Submit a Cover Letter

This bit of advice might seem pretty obvious to you, but many people think cover letters are optional. Even if the job description doesn’t specifically ask for one, you should still include one.

Applicants who don’t take the time to write a cover letter are typically seen as less motivated, and most hiring managers won’t even look at an application that lacks one. Cover letters are a must! We all know the time and stress that goes into writing one, but by going the extra mile, you prove your interest in the job while showing you’re willing to put in the effort.

2. Don’t Regurgitate Your Resume

Yes, it’s okay to talk about the things listed on your resume, but don’t copy and paste them right from the document. Instead, elaborate on your previous experiences and highlight things that relate to the position you’re applying for. A cover letter lets you put your skills into full sentences rather than just bullet points. Use this time to share additional details you weren’t able to squeeze onto your single-page resume and tell a story about why you’re the perfect fit for the job.

3. Don’t Apologize for Skills You Don’t Have

This is one of the most common cover letter mistakes. For some reason, we all feel the need to apologize for our perceived shortfalls — but why? If you don’t meet all of the job requirements, don’t draw attention to that fact. Instead, stay positive and focus on the skills you do have. It’s better to highlight your strengths than to apologize for your weaknesses.

4. Don’t Be Too Formal — Show Some Personality

Remember the person receiving your cover letter is just that: a person. Spare the overly formal constructions and put some personality into it. Reading through cover letters can be exhausting, and employers often only skim them. Dare to get noticed. Make your cover letter stand out. Give employers a reason to stop and read your full letter. It just might be the thing that lands you an interview.

5. Pay Attention to the Details

The smallest grammar mistake will most likely land your application in the “no” stack. It doesn’t matter what job you’re applying for; hiring managers are always looking for smart, detail-oriented individuals. If you misspell a word or forget a comma, don’t think it will go unnoticed. Be sure to proofread thoroughly your cover letter before submitting it. Consider having a colleague or friend review it as well for added security.

6. Be Yourself

Last and most importantly, be yourself. There is nothing worse than someone trying to be something they’re not. If you land the interview after blatantly lying in your cover letter, the employer is going to find out, and you won’t get the job. Be confident in yourself and highlight your true strengths. An honest cover letter will go a long way.

While it can be stressful to write, a cover letter can make or break your chance of landing an interview. Be patient and give your letter the attention it needs. You’ll be happy you did.

Ahnaf Bashir is the vice president of human resources at Advance Financial .

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• Posted in in Learning And Development For Students

Your Guide To Writing A Killer Resume And Cover Letter

• Posted by by Rashi Maheshwari
• Updated September 27, 2023

A resume and a cover letter are like your personal cheerleaders during your job search. They are the reflection of your professional accomplishments, skills, and experience. But, if not crafted wisely, you can end up as just another face on the campus. And, if you make them stand out, you can be the star player ready to score your dream job during  campus placement —on the first try. So, read on and think about what you’ll prefer.

As someone who has been through the job-hunting process several times, I know firsthand how overwhelming it is. The endless search for the perfect designation, the awkward anxiety right before an interview, and the constant pressure to stand out from a sea of applicants—It’s too much to handle. 

But there is a scenario where you might feel different. 

This is the scenario where you get employers awestruck with your first impression, aka your resume and cover letter.

No job seeker would disagree that having a good resume or portfolio can make or break your chances of an interview. Yet, 

54% of our fellow job seekers often miss out on the perfect job role because they didn’t tailor their resume and portfolio. Moreover, 84% of these aspiring job seekers overlook the personal touch and get rejected for the perfect fit role.

Does knowing these stats give you a weird sense of relatability? Well, even if that’s not the case, you need to save these tips so that you don’t miss out on potential job opportunities today or tomorrow. 

First, let’s learn more about resumes and understand how they are crucial to the job hunt.

What is a resume with examples?

A resume is official and all-inclusive documentation of your professional qualifications, featuring your essential work experience, relevant skills, educational background, and remarkable achievements. Often accompanied by a cover letter, a resume enables you to present a compelling argument of your competence and suitability as a candidate to potential employers. 

Its primary objective is to highlight your competencies, exhibit your capabilities, and present a coherent overview of your career progression. Creating a well-crafted resume is critical in demonstrating your professionalism, aptitude, and potential in a fiercely competitive job market.

And trust me, having a top-notch resume can make all the difference in landing your dream job.

Also, look at: Elevate Your Resume Game With These Job-Winning Resume Samples. 

And, remember,

Don’t settle for mediocrity when you have what it takes to shine. 

Alright now! It’s time to discuss the must-have components of a killer resume.

What are the essential steps in writing a resume?

Creating an effective resume is the initial stride toward securing a job. Therefore, it is imperative to comprehend the indispensable elements that constitute this crucial document to initiate your career search on the right trajectory. So, let’s explore the essential steps to creating an effective resume.

1. Headline and summary statement

Think of a resume as a billboard for your skills and experience. But, like a billboard, you have limited space to grab the reader’s attention. That’s where the headline comes in; it needs to be short, catchy, and summarise what you bring.

Summary Statements—they’re like the background music of a movie. They don’t steal the show but provide context, give a little more detail, and set the right tone for the rest of your resume. 

2. Relevant work experience and education

Start by emphasizing the most relevant work experience and education you have. Highlight your college degrees, qualifications, and the positions you’ve held that are related to the job you’re applying for. Make sure to include any leadership roles or special recognition you’ve earned.

3. Skills and achievements

To showcase your skills and achievements, ensure they’re interesting and informative. Support them with instances like, 

If you’ve worked in customer service, you could talk about how you had a hand in helping hundreds of customers find the perfect product or solve their issues. 

4. Relevant certifications and awards

Writing about certifications and awards in a resume does not have to be a mundane task. Instead, you can make it fun using creative and descriptive language to emphasise your accomplishments. 

For example, suppose you were awarded a Certificate of Excellence for a specific project. In that case, you could write something like this:

Ecstatic to have been awarded the ‘Certificate of Excellence’ for my innovative project [name], which showcased my exceptional skills and dedication.

Remember to be honest and focus on presenting the accomplishments you have earned and don’t exaggerate or make false claims.

5. Use keywords related to the job posting

Listen up, people! The secret weapon to making your resume noticed by a potential employer is to have the right keywords in it.

Here’s why it’s important:

• Hiring managers often use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen resumes and filter out unqualified candidates. By including relevant keywords, you increase your chances of getting past the ATS and into the hands of an actual human!
• Using keywords shows that you took the time to carefully read the job posting and understand the position’s responsibilities. This attention to detail can set you apart from other candidates and make a positive impression on the hiring manager.

6. Customize each resume for every job you apply to

It’s time to level up your job search game! Customizing your resume for each job you apply to shows you understand the position and the company’s needs. It shows that you’re a good match for the job and that you’re not just blasting out generic resumes to anyone who will listen.

You now have all the tips and tricks you need to create a resume that will make hiring managers do a double-take. 

Now, let’s talk about the Cover letter and understand the art of writing a creative cover letter. And, yes, you must send one.

How to write a cover letter for job applications?

A cover letter is another secret weapon on your job hunt journey! 

It’s your chance to let your personality shine, show off your skills, and convince a hiring manager that you’re the superhero they’ve been searching for. Think of it as a handshake through the screen, introducing yourself and why you’re the perfect fit for the job. 

Regrettably,

Approximately 45% of job applicants need to pay more attention to the significance of including a cover letter with their resume.

But I get it! Preparing a cover letter can be a mundane task but trust me; it’s worth the effort. I once applied for a job and thought my resume would speak for itself. Boy, was I wrong! When I got called in for an interview, the hiring manager pulled out my cover letter and said, 

“I was particularly intrigued by your reference to your love of 90s sitcoms in your cover letter. It displayed a genuine and authentic aspect of your personality and demonstrated your effort in crafting a standout application.” 

And that’s how I landed my dream job. So, put on your thinking cap, let your creativity run wild, and give that cover letter some love – you never know where it might take you!

To move forward, let’s discuss the must-have components of your cover letter.

1. Introduction of yourself

While a cover letter is an introduction to a resume, it should not be a copy of your resume. 

But wait! 41% of cover letters commit that mistake.

Well, you don’t have to do that. Instead, craft an introduction that sets you apart and grabs the hiring manager’s attention. Think of it as the opening act – make it memorable and leave the audience wanting more. 

2. Explanation of your interest in the position and company

By demonstrating your understanding of the role and the company’s mission, you show that you are not just any job applicant but a truly invested and motivated candidate. 

3. Address the letter to a specific person if possible

Put on your detective hat and dig to find out to whom you should address your CV. It shows that you have taken the time to research the company and make a more personal connection with the hiring manager. Using their name, you demonstrate a genuine interest in the role and the company and make a solid first impression. 

4. Tailor each cover letter to the specific job and company

Customizing your cover letter sets you apart from the crowd and shows that you are genuinely invested in the opportunity. So, don’t be a one-size-fits-all candidate; tailor your cover letter to each job and company for maximum impact.

5. Use a professional tone and avoid cliches

Your CV is like a business card – it should make a great impression and accurately reflect who you are. So avoid overused phrases and aim for clear, concise language that accurately highlights your skills and achievements.

6. Closing and follow-up information

A strong closing reiterates your interest in the opportunity and thanks the hiring manager for their time. In addition, providing follow-up information, such as your contact details and availability, shows you are proactive and eager to move forward.

And there you have it! The secret to crafting a resume and cover letter that will have hiring managers itching to meet you in person. 

A little bit of personality, and a lot of professionalism go a long way in making your application stand out. 

Now that recruiters are moving towards digitizing their hiring process, ATS is parsing resumes at lightning speed. It’s time to upskill yourself and grab the best opportunity on the first try.

So, put on your creative cap and prepare to land your dream job. It’s time to say goodbye to dull, generic resumes and hello to a world of limitless possibilities. 

Get hired, get inspired—and never settle for anything less than your best!

Rashi Maheshwari

Rashi started her journey with Axis Bank as an Assistant Manager and soon realized it was not her calling. She was adamant about changing her profession but had many doubts. Writing, debating, and journaling landed her first content writing job; the graph has been incredibly thrilling since then. She is currently working at Superset and climbing the ladder to enhance her journey with more freshly brewed ideas.

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10 Secrets to Writing a Killer Cover Letter

Writing a cover letter in today's competitive world has become an art form. While there are the established rules of keeping content tight and focused, and formatting well, there are some secrets you should know.

We'll look at 10 important tips that will help you write the perfect cover letter easily while achieving the best results possible.

in this guide we'll teach you:

• Formatting tips for writing a cover letter
• Who you should focus on in your writing
• The difference between a cover letter and a resume

Before we get into it, make sure that the other crucial component of your application is in place - the resume.

Head over to our resume builder for expert advice.

10 Tips for Writing a Killer Cover Letter

1. your cover letter should never, ever be longer than one page.

Recruiters are busy. They have lots of experience in making quick decisions based on the dozens of cover letters that they have to review daily.

If they see anything longer than one page, they are likely to toss it away. The worst thing you can do is hand in two or more pages stapled together.

It's normal to have lots to say regarding why you want the job or why you're qualified to do it, but this is why you have to think strategically and choose great examples of your career to talk about.

Save your big speech for the interview and if you want to land one, keep the cover letter a short page.

2. Use formatting in your favor

Following up on the single page cover letter secret - you can use your space wisely if you format correctly.

Stick to a letter size between 10 - 12 and got for a compact style such as Tahoma, Arial, or Calibri. Make sure not to leave spaces before or after any commas or periods.

Use 1.5 spacing . Double is too much, yet single will make your text hard to read. This way, you'll be able to fit more text on the page and keep it organized and easy to read.

3. Save your cover letter in the right format

One of the best-kept secrets is the power of PDF. You should always save your cover letter in PDF because it's the only way to make sure that it opens on every device and it keeps your formatting in place.

If you save the cover letter in a ".dox" format, you risk having it appear out of order on the recruiter's computer. Moreover, not every computer is able to open a ".dox" format and be sure that the recruiter won't take an extra five minutes to convert your files.

Play it safe and go with a PDF cover letter.

4. Show, don't tell

Your cover letter should be engaging and interesting to read. The resume is the serious part of the application where you establish all of your factual information.

The cover letter, on the other hand, is your chance to show your creativity and let your personality shine through.

Make your writing visual. Check out these two examples:

"I've worked in customer service for 5 years and know how to calm down an angry customer."

While this may be true, the statement above is plain boring. Here's a better way to let the hiring manager know about your customer service superpowers:

"During my time at Company X an angry customer whose account had been hacked came in. I managed to diffuse the situation by dropping everything I was working on and accompanying them in the entire process until we got it resolved. The client ended up being one of our most loyal users for the next 4 years."

The second example helps the hiring manager imagine how exactly you use the skills you keep saying you have. Make your cover letter visual and use the show vs tell method.

5. Make the cover letter all about the business

We know you care about landing a job, but put yourself in the company's shoes. They want to hire dedicated people who are serious about moving the business forward.

Make sure that your cover letter reflects this idea. There's nothing worse than a selfish applicant. Check out this example:

"Dear Hiring Manager,

• I feel like I could really learn and grow in your company. The pay is great too, so I will be happy being rewarded for my work."

While all of the above makes sense for the candidate, it looks bad from the recruiter's point of view.

It's okay to care about yourself, but show that you care about the business, too. Let's have a look at a better way to write a cover letter:

I want to be your next Sales Manager because Company X needs a strong leader who will take your team from good to great. I was impressed by the data that you published last quarter and especially the fact that you were able to increase your market reach and demonstrate an 8% increase of earnings.

I see a great potential in your product and the team, and strongly believe that with the right guidance, your earnings can hit the double digits as soon as the next quarter."

This candidate shows that they follow the company and have a clear plan in mind. This is what the hiring manager wants to see - someone coming in with determination, knowledge, and fresh ideas.

6. Show that you’re keeping up with the company’s work

This secret goes along with the previous tip. Follow the company you most like to work at and know what's happening at all times.

Keep in touch via Twitter, LinkedIn, and reading the company site. This will come in handy both while writing a cover letter and during your interview.

7. Proofread the right way

Proofreading is super important. Spelling or grammar mistakes will make you look careless.

The best way to proofread is to print out your cover letter and read it on a physical sheet of paper.

It helps a lot to have a second pair of eyes , so ask a friend to look it over for you. In order to identify grammar mistakes, use Grammarly .

8. Know the difference between a resume and a cover letter

Repeating information is a complete waste of time, especially for someone as busy as a hiring manager. Many candidates make the mistake of repeating their resume on the cover letter. In fact, the two are completely different and should be treated as such.

The resume presents the facts of your professional career. The cover letter, on the other hand, shows your motivation for wanting to do the job.

The cover letter should tell a story, be easy to read, and feel convincing. Focus on that and keep the facts on your resume.

9. Never open the cover letter by explaining what position you're applying for

Don't repeat information that's already on your application. Remember that the hiring manager will see your basic information and the position you're up for long before they even get to reading your cover letter.

Opening with "My name is__and I'm applying for__" is a big no-no. Instead begin with the standard "Dear Hiring Manager," and then get right into why you want the position.

10. Have a strong conclusion

Wrap up the cover letter as quickly as possible. Make sure that the one story you pick to demonstrate your relevant skills is exactly what the recruiter is looking for.

Once you hit them with the perfect example, you don't need to worry about explaining further or whether you've been persuasive enough throughout the letter.

Writing a cover letter is no science but it does take an extra effort to get it right. Always keep your letter down to a single page with persuasive content that tells a story, as opposed to repeating your resume.

Proofread and format well in order to keep things clear and organized. Make your cover letter all about the business and be careful of talking about your personal interests too much.

Finally, make sure to keep in touch with the company on social media and know what's happening at all times.

Knowing these 10 secrets for writing a cover letter, you can go ahead and apply confidently. Have one last look at your resume and make sure it looks perfect.

If you need some expert help with your resume, head over to our resume builder .

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How to Write a Killer Cover Letter

Garages Fix Cars. We Fix Careers

• by Amber Nathan
• in Career Tips
• on July 9, 2021

According to CareerBuilder , nearly half  (49%) of hiring managers say attaching cover letters to applications increases candidates’ chances of getting jobs. You may have the perfect resume and great experience, but do you have a killer cover letter to boot? If not, you need one. Here are six tips for crafting your job-winning cover letter:

Customize Cover Letters For Each Job

Hiring managers look for personalized work. Boilerplate phrases like “I am excited to apply for this company’s open position” and “I am responding to your listing online because I think I’m the perfect fit for the job” signal you’re sending similar cover letters everywhere. That’s a big turn-off for hiring managers. Each company is unique. Thus, each company requires a unique cover letter.

To personalize your cover letter, ensure you’re following these two useful tips:

1. Research the Company First

Do your homework on the company’s values, culture, etc. If a company appears more formal and focused on data-driven results, adjust your cover letter accordingly. If a company gives off creative and fun vibes, avoid stiff formality.

2. Find the Hiring Manager’s Name

The best openings include a hiring manager’s name. “Dear Sarah” or “Dear Mr. Anderson” sound much more personal than “To Whom It May Concern.” You can often find a hiring manager’s name on social media or the company website. When you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, you may use these alternatives:

·      Dear Hiring Manager

·      Dear [company name here] Team

·      Dear [specific department] Hiring Manager

Craft a Strong Opening Line

Don’t waste time saying, “I’m applying for the [specific position] I found on [job listing website].” Instead, lead with what makes you a strong candidate for the job. Here are some examples of great opening lines:

·      I’m a magazine editor with 10 years of experience managing and directing publications, and I’d love to bring my expertise to your team.

·      I’m a communications specialist with 15 years of experience overseeing projects, working directly with clients, and managing small teams, and I’m eager to apply these skills at [company].

·      I’ve been teaching students the intricacies and importance of literature for 6 years, and I’d like to continue my work with [learning institution].

Don’t Summarize Your Resume

Your cover letter is a chance to share information not included in your resume about what makes you the perfect candidate. Don’t waste hiring managers’ time by sending them two identical documents. Both your cover letter and resume should be distinctive, complementing one another without repeating what the other says.

Spotlight Your Personal Value

Share what you’ll bring to the company—how you can solve its problems and help face challenges in the future. Highlight difficulties the industry you work within faces and focus on how hiring you would help reduce or eliminate them. You already listed your skills and experience in the resume. Your cover letter is where you expand on these qualities and tell a story.

Ask yourself this question: what about your career journey and background can help companies overcome common obstacles?

Emphasize Your Enthusiasm

Hiring managers want candidates who are eager to integrate with the company. You should convey enthusiasm in your cover letter, demonstrating how you’re not only perfect for the job but excited to perform as well. Here are example phrases exhibiting enthusiasm:

·      I’m eager to work for an industry-leading company like yours.

·      I’d love to work alongside your award-winning editors; I’d be crazy to pass up an experience to learn from some of the world’s best.

·      I have a profound appreciation for your company—one of the most famous publishing businesses in the country—and I can’t think of anything more exciting than working with your team.

Keep Your Cover Letter Short

A good cover letter doesn’t exceed 300 words. Hiring managers receive hundreds—maybe thousands, depending on the company—resumes and cover letters to read through. They’re likely to give lengthy cover letters a quick skim and toss them aside, so master brevity.

A Bonus Tip For Cover Letter Creation

It’s hard to develop the perfect cover letter without expert help. One of the best ways to ensure your cover letter will resonate with employers is by sending it to an editor for feedback. Here at the Career Service Station, we review cover letters and resumes to ensure they’re at their best. Book a call with career expert Robert Braathe today for cover letter assistance.

Citations: https://www.themuse.com/advice/how-to-write-a-cover-letter-31-tips-you-need-to-know https://hbr.org/2014/02/how-to-write-a-cover-letter https://www.livecareer.com/resources/special-reports/stats/resume-and-cover-letter-stats https://zety.com/cover-letter-builder

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How to Write a Killer Cover Letter: 6 Fresh Strategies for the New Normal

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The need to find meaningful work has never been greater. That’s why it’s crucial to concentrate on a killer cover letter. Some may say that a cover letter is a thing of the past – because your resume speaks for itself. But the fact is, your resume can’t talk, or write, and your LinkedIn profile is never the whole story. That’s why it’s a good idea for you to get going on the number one tool you need in the new normal: a killer cover letter.

https://www.forbes.com/sites/chriswestfall/2020/08/22/how-to-write-a-killer-cover-letter-fresh-strategies-new-normal-jobs-career/#cd5b0ae2919e

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How To Write A Killer Cover Letter + Example + Free Template

We all know how important is it to have a top-class resume to deliver to your prospective employer or company recruitment officer, but many job seekers tend to forget how crucial it is to back up your resume with a solid cover letter .

A killer cover letter will also help you stand out from the crowd when employers are sorting through their list of prospectives. Many people also make the huge mistake of keeping a generic cover letter on file and sending it to multiple employers without a second thought. Big mistake!

It would come as no surprise to find most people have sent out the same cover letter to prospective employers at one point or another. This is especially true if you have been looking for work or trying to change career for some time. We all tend to get a bit weary of the constant application process over time.

Harsh as it may sound, the reality is that neglecting your cover letter can lose you that job , no matter how good your resume is. Many people think that your resume showing your skills, qualifications and work experience should be enough. Sadly this isn’t true.

Make sure you have an exceptional cover letter to back up your resume and you will be sure to stand out from all the other candidates. Employers have to wade through hundreds of applications to sort out their shortlist. Take your chance to show how perfect you are for the role and make it impossible for them to ignore you.

Watch our short video guide explaining how to write a cover letter that gets results

How to make writing your cover letter easier

If you are not a natural born writer, or even if you are, crafting a killer cover letter can seem hellishly difficult to achieve. Many people make the job more complicated than it actually is, so let’s take a look at how to simplify your cover letter writing.

Basically, a good cover letter needs to get across three important things:

• You have the necessary skills to fit the job at hand
• You have strong communication skills
• You will seamlessly fit in with their team

So how exactly do you convey these three points in your one page cover letter?

Start out strong and to the point. You need to grab the readers attention, so anything wishy-washy or too vague will be very boring to read and will see your letter consigned to the bin in the first 15 seconds of reading. The first sentences of your letter are the most valuable . Don’t beat around the bush here – launch straight into why you are perfect for the job.

Here is an example of an attention grabbing introduction:

“You are looking for a person who can communicate extremely well on all levels, someone who is self-assured and confident, and can be trusted to work independently or cooperatively within a team. I believe I am the person you need.”

Once you have your reader hooked, you can then move on to convincing them that your skills and experience are a perfect fit for the role.

Put the above advice into practice by using our free cover letter generator – a quick tool for creating an attractive cover letter in PDF.

Mirror the language of the job description

Most businesses will have their own company language and this is usually reflected in the chosen wording of their job advertisements. You can use this to your advantage by mirroring the language used in the advertisement as much as possible to show how your skills match perfectly with with their needs. For example, if you previously worked as a ‘content writer’ for a company, but this firm calls it ‘copywriting’, then you should also call it copywriting. You are more likely to get noticed if you already speak the same language as the company does!

Remember to inject some personality

Your killer cover letter serves the purpose of demonstrating why you are a good fit for the job in hand, but you don’t want to come across as some sort of unfeeling robot. Employers hire people on a combination of both their skills and their personality. They like to hire people that they can get along with and be able to work well with others. By making your letter conversational in tone and not overly formal, you can demonstrate that you are friendly and approachable. This will add a good feeling to your cover letter that will make it shine.

Never use a generic “To Whom it May Concern” salutation. If you know the hiring manager’s name, you may use Mr or Ms first and last name. If you are unsure, you can address it to the department hiring manager or the job title hiring manager.

Debi Douma-Herren HR Consultant & Career Strategist LinkedIn

The key to a killer cover letter is making the employer want to meet you. Steer-clear of those classically overused catchphrases that recruiters see over again in generic cover letters and you should easily stand out from the crowd. Try to avoid phrases like: “I am passionate about…”, “I am a team-player”, and “I am a fast learner.” Believe me, these phrases litter most cover letters and are so overused that employers can go cold at the sight of them.

If you see a job that is worth applying for, always thoughtfully tailor your cover letter to suit the language being used. Avoid boring the reader to death, and inject a bit of your personality to get yourself noticed in a sea of cover letter mediocrity.  You can do it!

Why do we need a cover letter?

While you think that adding a cover letter to your resume is an extra time-consuming task, you may wonder if you can get away with just sending your resume without one. However, in most cases, especially when you are applying for a job in a competitive industry, a good cover letter will greatly help to boost your chances of getting through to the interview stage.

Done correctly, your cover letter will help to highlight your most valuable skills and experience for the job in hand, and can make all the difference between making it to the ‘yes’ pile for short-listing for interview, or being rejected.

Your cover letter is a great opportunity to deliver key information to the employer without them having to search your resume for it.

What should I include?

What you should make sure to include in your cover letter is your previous experience that directly relates to the job that you are applying for. This instantly shows the employer that they have a candidate that can hit the ground running.

Remember to keep your cover letter short and sweet. You don’t want to overload the employer with too much information, especially if it repeats what they will find in your resume. Three to five paragraphs is sufficient, but make sure each paragraph is targeted to a different aspect of your application.

Go through the job description and search for key words and phrases. This is what the employer is looking for in a candidate, so you should make your cover letter answer their requests. If they want a candidate with sales experience, tell them in your cover letter that you have sales experience.

What to avoid with your cover letter

A well written cover letter can have a very positive influence on an employer – but don’t forget that the opposite is also true! A poorly constructed cover letter isn’t going to win you any friends, so keep it on point and relevant.

Avoid making your cover letter too long. An employer can be very put off when they see a very lengthy cover letter with huge blocks of text for them to wade through.

Cut any unnecessary waffle. Your cover letter is not the place to tell an employer that you are the president of the narrow-gage model railway society, or captain of you basketball team. Keep everything you include in your letter relevant for the job on offer.

An Example of a Cover Letter

Here we have prepared an example of a cover to give you an idea about how to write your letter. You can use this example to guide your writing, or you could choose to use the free cover letter template that is all ready for you to edit with your own information ( see below ).

Cover letter applying for the post of a Magazine Subscriptions Manager.

Name Title Organization Address City, State, Zip Code

Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name:

I am applying for the role of Magazine Subscriptions Manager as advertised by your company. My resume is attached for your review. With my previous related experience as a Subscriptions Administrator for XYZ Magazine, and my exemplary work ethic, I would appreciate your consideration for this management role. My skills are an ideal match for this position.

My related experience:

Responsible for managing the subscriptions database, solving customer payment and delivery issues, dealing with customer queries directly via telephone and email, following customer care procedures in accordance with departmental and company policies. Assisting with hiring, training, and management of junior staff and interns. Coordinating and collating statistics and sales reports. Experience in the supervision of staff as an active line manager.

I also possess excellent interpersonal and communication skills and work well as part of a team.

I appreciate your taking the time to review my resume and experience. Thank you for your consideration.

Your Signature

Cover Letter Template

To save you a lot of time with your cover letter preparation, we have created a well-balanced Cover Letter Template for you to use. This template has been created in MS Word and is completely customizable. Simply download and edit our professionally designed Cover Letter Template with your own personal information.

Download template (.docx)

Remember to tailor the text in your template to reflect why you should be selected for this job interview.

Need a matching resume design? Get the free Champagne & Wine resume template here .

Proofreading your Cover Letter

On a final note, take extra care to thoroughly proofread and edit your cover letter. Look for easy to miss typos and grammatical errors that can make your letter look sloppy. Wherever possible, get at least two other friends or family members to look over your cover letter for any minor mistakes that you may have missed.

If you don’t have anyone free that can look over your cover letter for you, then check out Grammarly.

Grammarly can be your second pair of eyes when you need to make sure your cover letter is absolutely perfect. It scans your text for common and complex grammatical mistakes, then offers accurate, context-specific suggestions to further help improve your text where necessary.

This post has been originally published on Oct 26, 2016 and has been extensively revised and updated on April 23, 2018.

Elena runs content operations at Freesumes since 2017. She works closely with copywriters, designers, and invited career experts to ensure that all content meets our highest editorial standards. Up to date, she wrote over 200 career-related pieces around resume writing, career advice... more

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Thanks for this resource, it’s been helpful.

Glad it helped, thank you for your feedback ; )

Very exhaustive, informative and precise narration. After reading this article, the thinking of the applicant will be streamlined and focused. It will be more helpful to fresh graduates and nonetheless the experienced! Thanks.

Thank you, glad it helped!

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How to Write a Cover Letter [Full Guide & Examples for 2024]

After weeks of heavy job searching, you’re almost there!

You’ve perfected your resume.

You’ve short-listed the coolest jobs you want to apply for.

You’ve even had a friend train you for every single interview question out there.

But then, before you can send in your application and call it a day, you remember that you need to write a cover letter too.

So now, you’re stuck staring at a blank page, wondering where to start...

Don’t panic! We’ve got you covered. Writing a cover letter is a lot simpler than you might think. 

In this guide, we’re going to teach you how to write a cover letter that gets you the job you deserve.

We're going to cover:

What Is a Cover Letter?

• How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter, Step by Step
• 15+ Job-Winning Cover Letter Examples

Let’s get started.

A cover letter is a document that you submit as part of your job application, alongside your resume or CV.

The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce you and briefly summarize your professional background. On average, it should be around 250 to 400 words long .

A good cover letter is supposed to impress the hiring manager and convince them you’re worth interviewing as a candidate.

So, how can your cover letter achieve this?

First of all, it should complement your resume, not copy it. Your cover letter is your chance to elaborate on important achievements, skills, or anything else that your resume doesn’t give you the space to cover. 

For example, if you have an employment gap on your resume, the cover letter is a great place to explain why it happened and how it helped you grow as a person. 

If this is your first time writing a cover letter, writing about yourself might seem complicated. But don’t worry—you don’t need to be super creative or even a good writer .

All you have to do is follow this tried and tested cover letter structure:

• Header. Add all the necessary contact information at the top of your cover letter.
• Formal greeting. Choose an appropriate way to greet your target audience.
• Introduction. Introduce yourself in the opening paragraph and explain your interest in the role.
• Body. Elaborate on why you’re the best candidate for the job and a good match for the company. Focus on “selling” your skills, achievements, and relevant professional experiences.
• Conclusion. Summarize your key points and wrap it up professionally.

Now, let’s take a look at an example of a cover letter that follows our structure perfectly:

New to cover letter writing? Give our cover letter video a watch before diving into the article!

When Should You Write a Cover Letter?

You should always include a cover letter in your job application, even if the hiring manager never reads it. Submitting a cover letter is as important as submitting a resume if you want to look like a serious candidate.

If the employer requests a cover letter as part of the screening process, not sending one is a huge red flag and will probably get your application tossed into the “no” pile immediately.

On the other hand, if the job advertisement doesn’t require a cover letter from the candidates, adding one shows you went the extra mile.

Putting in the effort to write a cover letter can set you apart from other candidates with similar professional experience and skills, and it could even sway the hiring manager to call you for an interview if you do it right.

Need to write a letter to help get you into a good school or volunteer program? Check out our guide to learn how to write a motivation letter !

How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter

Now that you know what a cover letter is, it’s time to learn how to write one!

We’ll go through the process in detail, step by step.

#1. Choose the Right Cover Letter Template

A good cover letter is all about leaving the right first impression.

So, what’s a better way to leave a good impression than a well-formatted, stylish template?

Just choose one of our hand-picked cover letter templates , and you’ll be all set in no time!

As a bonus, our intuitive AI will even give you suggestions on how to improve your cover letter as you write it. You’ll have the perfect cover letter done in minutes!

#2. Put Contact Information in the Header

As with a resume, it’s important to start your cover letter with your contact details at the top. These should be in your cover letter’s header, separated neatly from the bulk of your text.

Here, you want to include all the essential contact information , including:

• Full Name. Your first and last name should stand out at the top.
• Job Title. Match the professional title underneath your name to the exact job title of the position you’re applying for. Hiring managers often hire for several roles at once, so giving them this cue about what role you’re after helps things go smoother.
• Email Address. Always use a professional and easy-to-spell email address. Ideally, it should combine your first and last names.
• Phone Number. Add a number where the hiring manager can easily reach you.
• Location. Add your city and state/country, no need for more details.
• Relevant Links (optional). You can add links to websites or social media profiles that are relevant to your field. Examples include a LinkedIn profile , Github, or an online portfolio.

Then it’s time to add the recipient’s contact details, such as:

• Hiring Manager's Name. If you can find the name of the hiring manager, add it.
• Hiring Manager's Title. While there’s no harm in writing “hiring manager,” if they’re the head of the department, we recommend you use that title accordingly.
• Company Name. Make sure to write the name of the company you're applying to.
• Location. The city and state/country are usually enough information here, too.
• Date of Writing (Optional). You can include the date you wrote your cover letter for an extra professional touch.

#3. Address the Hiring Manager

Once you’ve properly listed all the contact information, it’s time to start writing the content of the cover letter.

The first thing you need to do here is to address your cover letter directly to the hiring manager.

In fact, you want to address the hiring manager personally .

Forget the old “Dear Sir or Madam” or the impersonal “To Whom It May Concern.” You want to give your future boss a good impression and show them that you did your research before sending in your application.

No one wants to hire a job seeker who just spams 20+ companies and hopes something sticks with their generic approach

So, how do you find out who’s the hiring manager?

First, check the job ad. The hiring manager’s name might be listed somewhere in it.

If that doesn’t work, check the company’s LinkedIn page. You just need to look up the head of the relevant department you’re applying to, and you’re all set.

For example, if you’re applying for the position of Communication Specialist at Novorésumé. The hiring manager is probably the Head of Communications or the Chief Communications Officer.

Here’s what you should look for on LinkedIn:

And there you go! You have your hiring manager.

But let’s say you’re applying for a position as a server . In that case, you’d be looking for the “restaurant manager” or “food and beverage manager.”

If the results don’t come up with anything, try checking out the “Team” page on the company website; there’s a good chance you’ll at least find the right person there.

Make sure to address them as Mr. or Ms., followed by their last name. If you’re not sure about their gender or marital status, you can just stick to their full name, like so:

• Dear Mr. Kurtuy,
• Dear Andrei Kurtuy,

But what if you still can’t find the hiring manager’s name, no matter where you look?

No worries. You can direct your cover letter to the company, department, or team as a whole, or just skip the hiring manager’s name.

• Dear [Department] Hiring Manager
• Dear Hiring Manager
• Dear [Department] Team
• Dear [Company Name]

Are you applying for a research position? Learn how to write an academic personal statement .

#4. Write an Eye-Catching Introduction

First impressions matter, especially when it comes to your job search.

Hiring managers get hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of applications. Chances are, they’re not going to be reading every single cover letter end-to-end.

So, it’s essential to catch their attention from the very first paragraph.

The biggest problem with most opening paragraphs is that they’re usually extremely generic. Here’s an example:

• My name is Jonathan, and I’d like to work as a Sales Manager at XYZ Inc. I’ve worked as a Sales Manager at MadeUpCompany Inc. for 5+ years, so I believe that I’d be a good fit for the position.

See the issue here? This opening paragraph doesn’t say anything except the fact that you’ve worked the job before.

And do you know who else has similar work experience? All the other applicants you’re competing with.

Instead, you want to start with some of your top achievements to grab the reader’s attention. And to get the point across, the achievements should be as relevant as possible to the position.

Your opening paragraph should also show the hiring manager a bit about why you want this specific job. For example, mention how the job relates to your plans for the future or how it can help you grow professionally. This will show the hiring manager that you’re not just applying left and right—you’re actually enthusiastic about getting this particular role.

Now, let’s make our previous example shine:

Dear Mr. Smith,

My name’s Michael, and I’d like to help XYZ Inc. hit and exceed its sales goals as a Sales Manager. I’ve worked as a Sales Representative with Company X, another fin-tech company , for 3+ years, where I generated an average of $30,000+ in sales per month and beat the KPIs by around 40%. I believe that my previous industry experience, passion for finance , and excellence in sales make me the right candidate for the job.

The second candidate starts with what they can do for the company in the future and immediately lists an impressive and relevant achievement. Since they’re experienced in the same industry and interested in finance, the hiring manager can see they’re not just a random applicant.

From this introduction, it’s safe to say that the hiring manager would read the rest of this candidate’s cover letter.

#5. Use the Cover Letter Body for Details

The next part of your cover letter is where you can go into detail about what sets you apart as a qualified candidate for the job.

The main thing you need to remember here is that you shouldn’t make it all about yourself . Your cover letter is supposed to show the hiring manager how you relate to the job and the company you’re applying to.

No matter how cool you make yourself sound in your cover letter, if you don’t tailor it to match what the hiring manager is looking for, you’re not getting an interview.

To get this right, use the job ad as a reference when writing your cover letter. Make sure to highlight skills and achievements that match the job requirements, and you’re good to go.

Since this part of your cover letter is by far the longest, you should split it into at least two paragraphs.

Here’s what each paragraph should cover:

Explain Why You’re the Perfect Candidate for the Role

Before you can show the hiring manager that you’re exactly what they’ve been looking for, you need to know what it is they’re looking for.

Start by doing a bit of research. Learn what the most important skills and responsibilities of the role are according to the job ad, and focus on any relevant experience you have that matches them.

For example, if you’re applying for the position of a Facebook Advertiser. The top requirements on the job ad are:

• Experience managing a Facebook ad budget of $10,000+ / month
• Some skills in advertising on other platforms (Google Search + Twitter)
• Excellent copywriting skills

So, in the body of your cover letter, you need to show how you meet these requirements. Here’s an example of what that can look like:

In my previous role as a Facebook Marketing Expert at XYZ Inc. I handled customer acquisition through ads, managing a monthly Facebook ad budget of $40,000+ . As the sole digital marketer at the company, I managed the ad creation and management process end-to-end. I created the ad copy and images, picked the targeting, ran optimization trials, and so on.

Other than Facebook advertising, I’ve also delved into other online PPC channels, including:

• Google Search

Our example addresses all the necessary requirements and shows off the candidate’s relevant skills.

Are you a student applying for your first internship? Learn how to write an internship cover letter with our dedicated guide.

Explain Why You’re a Good Fit for the Company

As skilled and experienced as you may be, that’s not all the hiring manager is looking for.

They also want someone who’s a good fit for their company and who actually wants to work there.

Employees who don’t fit in with the company culture are likely to quit sooner or later. This ends up costing the company a ton of money, up to 50% of the employee’s annual salary , so hiring managers vet candidates very carefully to avoid this scenario.

So, you have to convince the hiring manager that you’re passionate about working with them.

Start by doing some research about the company. You want to know things like:

• What’s the company’s business model?
• What’s the company’s product or service? Have you used it?
• What’s the company’s culture like?

Chances are, you’ll find all the information you need either on the company website or on job-search websites like Jobscan or Glassdoor.

Then, pick your favorite thing about the company and talk about it in your cover letter.

But don’t just describe the company in its own words just to flatter them. Be super specific—the hiring manager can see through any fluff.

For example, if you’re passionate about their product and you like the company’s culture of innovation and independent work model, you can write something like:

I’ve personally used the XYZ Smartphone, and I believe that it’s the most innovative tech I’ve used in years. The features, such as Made-Up-Feature #1 and Made-Up-Feature #2, were real game changers for the device.

I really admire how Company XYZ strives for excellence in all its product lines, creating market-leading tech. As someone who thrives in a self-driven environment, I truly believe that I’ll be a great match for your Product Design team.

So, make sure to do your fair share of research and come up with good reasons why you're applying to that specific company.

Is the company you want to work for not hiring at the moment? Check out our guide to writing a letter of interest .

#6. Wrap It Up and Sign It

Finally, it’s time to conclude your cover letter.

In the final paragraph, you want to:

• Wrap up any points you couldn't make in the previous paragraphs. Do you have anything left to say? If there’s any other information that could help the hiring manager make their decision, mention it here. If not, just recap your key selling points so far, such as key skills and expertise.
• Express gratitude. Politely thanking the hiring manager for their time is always a good idea.
• Finish the cover letter with a call to action. The very last sentence in your cover letter should be a call to action. This means you should ask the hiring manager to do something, like call you and discuss your application or arrange an interview.
• Remember to sign your cover letter. Just add a formal closing line and sign your name at the bottom.

Here’s an example of how to end your cover letter :

I hope to help Company X make the most of their Facebook marketing initiatives. I'd love to further discuss how my previous success at XYZ Inc. can help you achieve your Facebook marketing goals. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at the provided email address or phone number so that we may arrange an interview.

Thank you for your consideration,

Alice Richards

Feel free to use one of these other popular closing lines for your cover letter:

• Best Regards,
• Kind Regards,

Cover Letter Writing Checklist

Once you’re done with your cover letter, it’s time to check if it meets all industry requirements. 

Give our handy cover letter writing checklist a look to make sure:

Does your cover letter heading include all essential information?

• Professional Email
• Phone Number
• Relevant Links

Do you address the right person? 

• The hiring manager in the company
• Your future direct supervisor
• The company/department in general

Does your introductory paragraph grab the reader's attention?

• Did you mention some of your top achievements?
• Did you use numbers and facts to back up your experience?
• Did you convey enthusiasm for the specific role?

Do you show that you’re the right candidate for the job?

• Did you identify the core requirements for the role?
• Did you show how your experiences helped you fit the requirements perfectly?

Do you convince the hiring manager that you’re passionate about the company you’re applying to?

• Did you identify the top 3 things that you like about the company?
• Did you avoid generic reasons for explaining your interest in the company?

Did you conclude your cover letter properly?

• Did you recap your key selling points in the conclusion?
• Did you end your cover letter with a call to action?
• Did you use the right formal closing line and sign your name?

15 Cover Letter Tips

Now you’re all set to write your cover letter! 

Before you start typing, here are some cover letter tips to help take your cover letter to the next level:

• Customize Your Cover Letter for Each Job. Make sure your cover letter is tailored to the job you're applying for. This shows you're not just sending generic applications left and right, and it tells the hiring manager you’re the right person for the job.
• Showcase Your Skills. Talk about how your skills meet the company’s needs. And while your hard skills should be front and center, you shouldn’t underestimate your soft skills in your cover letter either.
• Avoid Fluff. Don’t make any generic statements you can’t back up. The hiring manager can tell when you’re just throwing words around, and it doesn’t make your cover letter look good.
• Use Specific Examples. Instead of saying you're great at something, give an actual example to back up your claim. Any data you can provide makes you sound more credible, so quantify your achievements. For example, give numbers such as percentages related to your performance and the timeframe it took to accomplish certain achievements.
• Research the Company. Always take time to learn about the company you're applying to. Make sure to mention something about them in your cover letter to show the hiring manager that you're interested.
• Follow the Application Instructions. If the job posting asks for something specific in your cover letter or requires a certain format, make sure you include it. Not following instructions can come off as unattentive or signal to the hiring manager that you’re not taking the job seriously.
• Use the Right Template and Format. Choose the right cover letter format and adapt your cover letter’s look to the industry you’re applying for. For example, if you’re aiming for a job in Law or Finance, you should go for a cleaner, more professional look. But if you’re applying for a field that values innovation, like IT or Design, you have more room for creativity.
• Express Your Enthusiasm. Let the hiring manager know why you're excited about the job. Your passion for the specific role or the field in general can be a big selling point, and show them that you’re genuinely interested, not just applying left and right.
• Address Any Gaps. If there are any employment gaps in your resume , your cover letter is a great place to mention why. Your resume doesn’t give you enough space to elaborate on an employment gap, so addressing it here can set hiring managers at ease—life happens, and employers understand.
• Avoid Quirky Emails. Your email address should be presentable. It’s hard for a hiring manager to take you seriously if your email address is “[email protected].” Just use a [email protected] format.
• Check Your Contact Information. Typos in your email address or phone number can mean a missed opportunity. Double-check these before sending your application.
• Mention if You Want to Relocate. If you’re looking for a job that lets you move somewhere else, specify this in your cover letter.
• Keep It Brief. You want to keep your cover letter short and sweet. Hiring managers don’t have time to read a novel, so if you go over one page, they simply won’t read it at all.
• Use a Professional Tone. Even though a conversational tone isn’t a bad thing, remember that it's still a formal document. Show professionalism in your cover letter by keeping slang, jargon, and emojis out of it.
• Proofread Carefully. Typos and grammar mistakes are a huge deal-breaker. Use a tool like Grammarly or QuillBot to double-check your spelling and grammar, or even get a friend to check it for you.

15+ Cover Letter Examples

Need some inspiration? Check out some perfect cover letter examples for different experience levels and various professions.

5+ Cover Letter Examples by Experience

#1. college student cover letter example.

Check out our full guide to writing a college student cover letter here.

#2. Middle Management Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a project manager cover letter here.

#3. Team Leader Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a team leader cover letter here.

#4. Career Change Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to a career change resume and cover letter here.

#5. Management Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a management cover letter here.

#6. Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing an executive resume here.

9+ Cover Letter Examples by Profession

#1. it cover letter example.

Check out our full guide to writing an IT cover letter here.

#2. Consultant Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a consultant cover letter here.

#3. Human Resources Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a human resources cover letter here.

#4. Business Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a business cover letter here.

#5. Sales Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a sales cover letter here.

#6. Social Worker Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a social worker cover letter here.

#7. Lawyer Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a lawyer cover letter here.

#8. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing an administrative assistant cover letter here.

#9. Engineering Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing an engineer cover letter here.

#10. Receptionist Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a receptionist cover letter here.

Need more inspiration? Check out these cover letter examples to learn what makes them stand out.

Plug & Play Cover Letter Template

Not sure how to start your cover letter? Don’t worry!

Just copy and paste our free cover letter template into the cover letter builder, and swap out the blanks for your details.

[Your Full Name]

[Your Profession]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Location]

[Your LinkedIn Profile URL (optional)]

[Your Personal Website URL (optional)]

[Recipient's Name, e.g., Jane Doe],

[Recipient's Position, e.g., Hiring Manager]

[Company Name, e.g., ABC Corporation]

[Company Address]

[City, State/Country]

Dear [Recipient's Name],

As a seasoned [Your Profession] with [Number of Years of Experience] years of industry experience, I am eager to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. With my experience in [Your Industry/Sector] and the successes I've achieved throughout my education and career, I believe I can bring unique value and creativity to your team.

In my current role as [Your Current Job Title], I've taken the lead on more than [Number of Projects/Assignments] projects, some valued up to $[Highest Project Value]. I pride myself on consistently exceeding client expectations and have successfully [Mention a Key Achievement] in just a [Amount of Time] through [Skill] and [Skill].

I've collaborated with various professionals, such as [List Roles], ensuring that all [projects/tasks] meet [relevant standards or objectives]. This hands-on experience, coupled with my dedication to understanding each [client's/customer's] vision, has equipped me to navigate and deliver on complex projects.

My key strengths include:

• Improving [Achievement] by [%] over [Amount of Time] which resulted in [Quantified Result].
• Optimizing [Work Process/Responsibility] which saved [Previous Employer] [Amount of Time/Budget/Other Metric] over [Weeks/Months/Years]
• Spearheading team of [Number of People] to [Task] and achieving [Quantified Result].

Alongside this letter, I've attached my resume. My educational background, a [Your Degree] with a concentration in [Your Specialization], complements the practical skills that I'm particularly eager to share with [Company Name].

I'm excited about the possibility of contributing to [Something Notable About the Company or Its Mission]. I'd be grateful for the chance to delve deeper into how my expertise aligns with your needs.

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

The Heart of Your Job Search - Creating a Killer Resume

Your cover letter is only as good as your resume. If either one is weak, your entire application falls through.

After all, your cover letter is meant to complement your resume. Imagine going through all this effort to leave an amazing first impression in your cover letter, only for the hiring manager to never read it because your resume was mediocre.

But don’t worry; we’ve got you covered here, too.

Check out our dedicated guide on how to make a resume and learn everything you need to know to land your dream job!

Just pick one of our resume templates and start writing your own job-winning resume.

Key Takeaways

Now that we’ve walked you through all the steps of writing a cover letter, let’s summarize everything we’ve learned:

• A cover letter is a 250 - 400 word document that’s meant to convince the hiring manager that you’re the best candidate for the job.
• Your job application should always include a cover letter alongside your resume.
• To grab the hiring manager’s attention, write a strong opening paragraph. Mention who you are, why you’re applying, and a standout achievement to pique their interest.
• Your cover letter should focus on why you’re the perfect candidate for the job and why you’re passionate about working in this specific company.
• Use the body of your cover letter to provide details on your skills, achievements, and qualifications, as well as make sure to convey your enthusiasm throughout your whole cover letter.
• Recap your key selling points towards the end of your cover letter, and end it with a formal closing line and your full name signed underneath.

At Novorésumé, we’re committed to helping you get the job you deserve every step of the way! 

Follow our career blog for more valuable advice, or check out some of our top guides, such as:

• How to Make a Resume in 2024 | Beginner's Guide
• How to Write a CV (Curriculum Vitae) in 2024 [31+ Examples]
• 35+ Job Interview Questions and Answers [Full List]

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• Career Advice

How to write a killer cover Letter ?

Many job seekers nowadays put all their focus on creating a great resume but overlook the importance of a cover letter. However, if a cover letter is necessary for a job application, most jobseekers hurriedly and carelessly put together a cover letter without caring for detail. By doing that they miss out on almost all important details that should be included in a cover letter. 

Writing a great cover letter takes time and effort and it can make all the difference between you getting a call for an interview or not. However, writing a cover letter all by yourself without looking at any samples or without seeking any professional help will almost end up with you having a crappy cover letter that is missing all the important points. 

To ease your troubles, expert cover letter creators from ResumeThatWorks took the time to write down this article to help you create great cover letters. Please carefully read this article from start to finish to understand all the important details that should be included in your cover letter.

What is the Difference Between a Resume and a Cover Letter?

A resume only highlights your major achievements, experiences, accomplishments, and information about your certifications and education. A resume is nothing more than a showcase of the key highlights of your personal experiences and accomplishments throughout your professional career.

On the other hand, a cover letter adds a personal touch to your professional experience and expertise. A cover letter enables you to show a bit of your personality in your profession. A cover letter showcases how you were able to achieve all that for your previous employers and how diligent and hardworking you are. Unlike a resume, you can also explain why you are the best candidate for the role that you are applying for.

7 Pro Tips on How to Write a Perfect Cover Letter for Any Job 

Wondering how to write a killer cover letter that stands out? Well, you are not alone, many people struggle to write cover letters according to the job description. 

These are the reasons why expert career counselors and resume writing experts from ResumeThatWorks have prepared these pro tips and tricks for you to understand how to write a killer cover letter. 

Pro Tip # 1: Start With A Killer Opening Line

A wise man once said that your first impression is your last impression, I agree with him in this regard. Hiring managers go through a ton of resumes and cover letters from people every day. They can easily identify if you copy-pasted some crappy opening lines from the internet. Remember that you need to impress the hiring manager by showcasing your unique personality and talents. You need to bring something new to the table that makes the hiring manager say “this person looks better than the rest”. 

The worst of all cover letter opening lines there can ever be is to write “To Whom It May Concern”. This shows that you have sent the same cover letter to hundreds of other employers as well. This also shows that you did not do any research about the company and just sent a pre-written cover letter without any editing. Such types of job applications go straight to the dust bin, we know it’s harsh but it’s the reality. For a chance to stand out with your cover letter you need to follow these instructions.

• Try to know the name of the decision-maker or hiring manager. You can most probably find it in the job description or the Email that you receive, however, if it’s not listed there go to the company’s website and find it yourself. 
• Start your cover letter by addressing the hiring manager/ concerned person with his/her name.
• Addressing the hiring manager by his/her name will make a strong first impression. This indicates that you took the time to research the company, read the job description, and explored the company’s Linkedin profile.

Pro Tip # 2: Make it unique to the job 

Rather than sending a generic letter that could apply to any job at any company, your opening sentence should show that your letter was crafted in response to this specific job. For example, “I was thrilled to see your listing for a data entry specialist in the Cleveland office” says a lot more than “I am responding to your job opening.”   

Pro Tip # 3: Be Clear and Concise While Writing

Try to write in active voice tense and not passive voice. Use a conversational tone like the one you will use if you are standing right in front of the hiring manager. Avoid superlatives and pretentious language. Also, avoid small phrases that don’t give full meaning and avoid jargon.

Use simple words, however, write sentences through which you are able to give the most meaning from small words. Carefully proofread and edit your content before submission to ensure the highest quality. Here are some tips from our career experts :

• Always use an active voice tone.
• Use simple words and avoid jargon. 
• Stick to the point and stay relevant to the job description.
• Proofread and edit your document 3-4 times before submission
• Look for grammatical errors as well as punctuation errors.
• Ask a friend or a colleague to proofread the start of your cover letter before submission.

Pro Tip # 4: Only Include What’s Relevant

More like your resume you should only add relevant details that directly relate to the job role you are applying for. However, unlike your resume where you only highlight WHAT you have done in the past, your cover letter enables you to say HOW you were able to do all that. 

Also, make sure you directly respond to all the questions asked in the job description section that needs “what we are looking for”. For instance, if the job description says that they need a person with sales experience then mention your sales experience in your cover letter. 

Pro Tip # 5: Don’t just repeat what’s on your resume

Your cover letter is your chance to showcase a bit of your personality and not just highlights like in your CV. Instead of repeating what’s already listed in your resume, focus on adding a bit of a personal touch to your professional story. 

However, don’t try to tell them how that job will be so good for you, else, focus on why you are the best fit for that role. Focus on why hiring you would be so much better for the company and how are you better than the rest of the people who also applied for that role.  

Pro Tip # 6: Offer examples of what you’ve done in past

Unlike a resume, a cover letter is your chance to show examples of what you have done in the past. Just make sure you carefully read the job description before you start writing. For instance, if a company is looking for someone with great communication skills then elaborate on how your experience as a communications specialist will help them. 

Don’t focus on why you need this job and how this job can help you financially with your problems. Employers want to see what you can do for them and not what they can do for you. Even if you are a fresh graduate or only have a college degree you can still how what you did in your summer holidays. 

Pro Tip # 7: Finish on a Strong Note

Never ever say things like “you will be highly obliged if you get this opportunity and you will give your best” employers do really care about what benefits you get. Employers are more interested in what you can do for them and the company as a whole. 

However, we are not suggesting that you don’t show your enthusiasm for the job role. Sounding enthusiastic and optimistic that shows your genuine interest in the role will show that you are interested in the job role being offered. Add a thank you note for the hiring manager’s time and consideration. Also mention that you are always available for discussing more the role and you are looking forward to hearing back from the hiring manager. 

Killer Cover Letter Format

The format of a cover letter is generally very simple and flexible. The cover letter format can be adapted based on the job description and requirements. If you are not sure about drafting a unique cover letter format then you can use the following format:

• The Header Section: Start with your name and contact details and then add a blank line. Follow the blank line with the hiring manager’s name and company information. Don’t forget to include your Linkedin profile in the header section.
• Short, Concise, and to the Point: Don’t write an essay, try to keep your cover letter short. 3to 4 paragraphs are more than enough for a cover letter. Start with a hook statement and try to keep your content interesting and engaging for the hiring manager to read.
• The Middle Paragraphs: After the introductory paragraph, show how you are a great fit for the company and how you fulfill the job description. Also, share how you did everything for your previous employer. 
• Cover Letter Page Style: We recommend a 1-inch margin from the top, bottom, and two sides.
• Font Style of Cover Letter: There is no specific font style you can use whatever you like but make sure you don’t change your font. Only use one font style. 
• Cover Letter Line Spacing Format: The cover letter line spacing should either be 1 or 1.15 so that you can add as many words as you can without going to the next page. Cover letter margins. Stick to a full inch on the top, bottom, left, and right.
• Best font for cover letter. Use only one font, but make it a respected, easy-to-read one like Cambria, Calibri, or Didot.
• Line spacing. Cover letter line spacing should be 1 to 1.15. Don’t get creative with this part of it.

Cover Letter Examples

Writing cover letters is not an easy task and you should never write one without looking at any samples. Look at the different cover letter samples to see how to actually write a great cover letter. 

Written by Simon W

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5 Winning Tips for a Killer Cover Letter

Don't underestimate the power of a great cover letter..

What's the point of a cover letter anyway? Many of us wonder that exact thing as we wade through our resumes and job applications --hoping to land a great, new job.

Although many of us think cover letters are redundant or superfluous (isn't your resume the most important thing?), your cover letter can make the difference between whether your resume gets read, or just thrown in the trash.

A killer cover letter has the power to get the person who reads it interested in learning more about you, which can give you an edge over other candidates. In fact, a really great cover letter can sometimes lead directly to a job offer.

Here are 5 powerful tips for creating a cover letter that will make you stand out from the rest of the pack, and may just change your future for the better.

1. Don't rehash your resume

The biggest cover letter mistake is to take exactly what we wrote in our resume and say it all over again. A killer cover letter puts the focus on the organization you're applying to, as well as the description of the open position. Then quickly point out how your experience makes you uniquely qualified for that position. The purpose of your cover letter is to amplify your resume, not to duplicate it.

2. Leave out clichés

Keep any phrases that appear less than meaningful out of your text. With every sentence, you should be asking yourself how these words help the employer better understand why you're the best person for the job. An example of a cliché to avoid is saying that you're a "hard worker" or that you are "eager to learn." Most everyone uses those words in their resumes, and they will do little to convince an employer to hire you.

3. Do some research

Learn about the company culture before you write your cover letter, not after. Reach out to your network to see if anyone has had experience with this business before. Do everything in your power to learn as much information as you can before writing a cover letter specific to the organization. Demonstrate that you're familiar with their recent projects, their past initiatives, and previous successful campaigns. Your knowledge will definitely stand out--and so will you.

4. Explain how you fit

Great cover letters go beyond simply reciting your credentials--they show how you will fit into to the company's existing structure and team, and take it to an even higher level. It's best to keep away from beginning sentences with "I", since that shows why you would personally benefit from the job--not how the company benefits from having you fill it.

5. Don't use a template

Anyone can go on Google and search for what a cover letter is supposed to look like. While the examples you'll find on Google can help you structure your letter, don't just copy a cover letter template word for word, and don't be afraid to deviate from the norm. When you're applying for a new job, standing out in a sea of sameness can be a very good thing.

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How to Write a Killer Cover Letter

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Seven Keys to a Killer Cover Letter

By salary.com staff - original publish date: november 5, 2012.

Most job seekers understand the value and importance of a well-organized resume  but spend far less energy on crafting a strong cover letter. What they fail to realize is that resumes and cover letters go hand-in-hand.  Employers are very busy and receive hundreds of resumes leaving little time for individual review. Submitting a thoughtful and well-written cover letter can help you outshine your competition and get you one step closer to an interview. Don’t let the energy you’ve spent on developing the perfect resume go to waste by failing to deliver an effective cover letter.  Here we offer some tips to help you craft the perfect cover letter that will get you noticed:

1. Understand what the Cover Letter Must Achieve

• demonstrate your desire to work for the employer
• identify specific ways your expertise can benefit the organization
• differentiate yourself from other job seekers
• demonstrate your individual personality
• explain anomalies that may stand out in a resume such as gaps in employment
• arouse interest that will help you get that interview.

2. Know Your Stuff

Avoid using generic or mass produced cover letters. Each cover letter should be customized for each individual employer and include a statement about why you are attracted to the position and company. Before you begin writing your letter, learn as much as you can about the potential employer. The more you know about an organization, the better you can tailor your cover letter to the firm's needs. Visit the firm's website and scan industry publications so you are up to speed on recent news about the company. Remember, you want to express what you can do for the employer, not what they can do for you. A cover letter must highlight aspects of your experience that are most useful to the potential employer, and you can earn points for knowing what those aspects are.

3. Make it Personal

Often times a job listing does not include the name of the hiring manager. Never begin a cover letter with "to whom it may concern" or “dear hiring manager.” A generic salutation often signals to potential employers that you lack the initiative to locate the appropriate contact. Instead, call the company directly and explain the position you are applying for to see if you can fill in the blank or take time to research on the internet or in appropriate business periodicals to get the name and title of the hiring official.

4. Be Strong, Confident and Professional

5. highlight what is most relevant, 6. check grammar and spelling.

The smallest grammatical error on your part can call your professionalism and attention to detail into question thereby discouraging a hiring manager from contacting you for an interview. Always spell-check your document and ask friends and family members to proof read your letter before sending it to any potential employer.

7. Follow Up

In addition to expressing gratitude for the hiring manager's time and interest, close your letter by outlining your next steps. Be proactive by stating when you will contact him or her to follow up. And don't forget to include a phone number or e-mail address where you can be reached in case the firm wants to get in touch with you first. Be sure to follow up with the employer via phone or email in 2-3 weeks if you have not heard from them. In your follow-up email, reiterate your interest in the position, ask about the status of your application and ask if they need any further information from you.

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Articles & Advice > Internships and Careers > Blog

7 Must-Know Tips for Writing a Killer Cover Letter

A great cover letter can make your resume stand out among a sea of other candidates, but writing one can be daunting. These seven tips can make it easier!

by Tommy Wyher Life Coach

Last Updated: Jun 26, 2024

Originally Posted: Dec 14, 2017

Many jobseekers find writing a cover letter to be a daunting process. If applying for a job were as simple as sending off the same résumé time after time, you’d be able to cover a lot more ground at a much quicker pace. But the cover letter requires you to present a much more tailored, in-depth look at what makes you the perfect candidate. Fortunately, these seven tips will help guide you through the process and make writing cover letters that much easier.

1. Stick to traditional formatting

While the contents of your cover letter can be as customized and unique as you’d like, most businesses expect cover letters to follow the same format. If you haven’t written one before, or want a little extra guidance, search for a sample cover letter format page online. Doing so will provide you with a clear-cut idea of how your cover letter should be organized and what information it should include. The traditional format is tried and true, and there’s no need to stray from it. Hiring managers expect a cover letter to be easy to read and to have distinct sections including the greeting, the opening statement, the body copy, and the closing statement. Deviating from this standard format could hurt the impression your letter makes.

2. Have a personalized greeting

Using a generic greeting doesn’t help you stand out from the pack, so it’s essential that you use a personalized greeting whenever possible. A standard greeting, such as “Dear hiring manager,” is fine if you’ve exhausted all other efforts to locate the identity of the hiring manager for your position. However, if you go the extra mile with your research , the person reading applications will certainly take note. Address them with “Ms.” or “Mr.” if the company is conservative or corporate. If the potential employer is a start-up or small business, feel free to use the recipient’s first name.

Related:  6 Things to Omit From Your First Cover Letter

3. Keep your introduction short

The opening paragraph of your cover letter should be short and straightforward. The introduction is where you briefly explain what makes you the perfect candidate and hook the reader. The trick is to do so without going into too much detail—there's room for more explanation later in the cover letter. In the first two or three sentences, explain what excites you about the position and why you are a good candidate.

4. Tell them what you can do for the company

A cover letter should outline your qualifications and paint a picture of what you’ll bring to the table if you’re hired. You want to concentrate on expanding upon your experience to show why you’re the obvious choice for the role. Lay out the reasons why the working relationship will prove to be mutually beneficial. Let them know that you’re serious about having a long-term career at the company. Tell them what excites you and what makes you passionate about the job description. For example, if the company is an eco-conscious nonprofit, tell them how your values and commitment to green living aligns with their mission statement.

Related:  Top 10 Mistakes New Grads Make When Seeking a Job

5. Research the company culture

Before you start writing your cover letter, consider the culture of the organization to which you’re applying. When you demonstrate that you understand the company culture, you’re better positioned to explain why you’d fit in. To help you understand the company culture , start by taking a look at the company website. What type of language do they use, and how does this relate to the company personality? Do team bios list professional qualifications or tell fun facts? These little elements provide insight into what the business is looking for and will help you match the tone of your letter to the company’s voice. While your cover letter should always have a professional tone, when applying for roles at a start-up or ad agency, for example, you can likely write a slightly less formal cover letter than if you are applying for a role in a conservative environment like a law firm or financial institution. 

6. Don’t regurgitate your résumé

A great cover letter doesn’t just repeat what’s on your résumé. To be effective, it should expand upon the experience and skills you’ve outlined in your résumé , describe in detail specific projects and initiatives you're proud of, and give a hint of your personality. For example, if you were previously the Marketing Coordinator at a technology start-up, rather than repeat that fact in your cover letter, write about your experience collaborating with the design team to come up with a higher-converting website instead. Detail the results of your labor by using numbers and statistics. Perhaps thanks to your efforts, the company’s newsletter subscriber count increased, or maybe 32% more visitors requested product demos. This result-driven description of your tasks, coupled with your solid writing and proofreading, will go a long way for a recruiter. 

7. Use a cover letter builder

If you aren’t confident in your writing abilities, writing a cover letter can feel daunting even when you’ve studied the basic tips and tricks. Using an online cover letter builder, which will help not only with the layout of your letter but with phrasing and editing, can be a great help in adding in the most valuable information and eliminating unnecessary content. Just pick a template and fill in your information, and the hard part is over—until the job interview.

Related:  How to Write a Cover Letter With Little to No Work Experience

Including a cover letter is usually a must when you're applying to jobs, even if they say it isn't required. Writing one that makes you stand out can be tricky, but by following these steps, you'll be well on your way into the short pile—then you can start preparing for the other fun parts of the job search process like interviews and salary negotiations. Best of luck! 

Looking for more great advice on finding and landing a job? Check out our Internships and Careers playlist on the CollegeXpress YouTube channel. 

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About Tommy Wyher

Tommy Wyher is a graduate of UNC Chapel Hill and wishes when he graduated he knew more about how to write a  cover letter . He enjoys taking his huskies Reptar and Nala everywhere he goes but especially the beach. He spends time as a life coach and helps clients reach their ultimate goals. 

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Write A Killer Cover Letter In 7 Easy Steps

So you want to write that killer cover letter to land your dream job? Not so fast. You’ve got to give your cover letter the respect it deserves. For years, the Hiring Manager at XYZ Corporation has been reading all kinds of these letters, giving a few the green light… but she’s been rejecting all the rest. In order to grab her attention in all the right ways, follow these seven easy steps.

1. The Appearance

If your overall presentation isn’t top notch, then it’s not going to get the respect it deserves. Though it won’t be covered here, be sure to tune up your resume or your curriculum vitae (CV) alongside your cover letter.

Start by following a simple layout. In the top-center of the letter, have a letterhead bearing your name in a bold, large font. On a single line below your name, type out your address, your phone number, and your email address. (If you don’t have a letterhead, you may place your name, address, phone number and email in a heading in the top-left corner.)

Next, place the company heading as close to the top-left corner as possible. It should have the recipient’s name, his or her job title, the company name, and the full address of the company. In the top right-hand corner of your letter, you should spell out the date like this: June 1 st , 2014. (You may also place the date directly above the company heading.)

The salutation should be placed a couple of lines down from that. It is acceptable to have a subject line underneath the salutation, for example: RE: C++ Programmer, Job ID: EG3-1228965.

The body of your letter should have EXACTLY three paragraphs: an introduction, a middle and a conclusion. These paragraphs ought to be brief, three to five sentences each. Be sure to use the correct terminology and active language. And, most importantly, omit needless words.

The final statement is your farewell, also known as a valediction. This, too, should be brief and genuine. A few spaces down from the valediction, place your first and last name.

Remember, your cover letter should only be a single page. For a few examples of the overall layout of a cover letter, try using a search engine to view examples. Search images for: cover letter examples.

2. The Salutation

When you send out a cover letter, address the exact person who will receive it. You will have to research who this person is, of course. There are many ways to go about doing this, and I recommend you check the official company website first. From time to time, you will find a company directory, so check the Human Resources (HR) department to find out who handles hiring new employees. If you can’t find the hiring manager in this way, try looking up profiles on LinkedIn that meet the criteria. If you find someone who claims to be in charge of new hires for the company in your region, copy down his or her name for your cover letter. You may also try calling the company directly in order to learn the hiring manager’s name.

If you can’t find the name of the person to send your letter to, that is okay. The most accepted way to address a cover letter nowadays is “Dear Hiring Manager,” or “To the Hiring Committee:” followed by a comma or a colon. Some job hunters prefer to address their letters with “Dear Sir or Madam,” instead, but I do not recommend this salutation. DO NOT open by stating “To whom it may concern.” HR employees often remove these cover letters from the mix due to the broadness of the salutation – and it actually makes you sound unconcerned.

Form your salutation in the simplest way – address your reader properly – it’s as easy as that.

3. The Introduction

To stand out, you’ve got to have a killer first sentence. Picture the hiring manager a moment: he or she has to read a number of cover letters every day. All of the letters read follow a format to be sure, but he or she is tired of reading the same old stuff. That’s why you’ve got to WOW them.

Open your letter with the truth, plain and simple: “I have several years’ experience in the restaurant industry, and I hope you will consider me for the position of Kitchen Manager.” Or perhaps you’d prefer a slightly-augmented example: “Capitalizing on my accomplishments in web-based SEO analysis, I would like to express my interest in serving your online community as a Social Media Marketer.” Whatever the case, it is important that you are clear and concise. You ought to mention how you found out the company is hiring as well. If you were referred by someone within the company, it behooves you to mention his or her name and position in the first sentence.

The opening paragraph is designed to show why you are a good match for the company. Mention two or three exacting qualifications you have that suits the position, drawing upon the skills your resume entails. (Take note of these qualifications as you write, since you will amplify their specificity to the position in question in the paragraphs to come.) Whatever you decide to include, DO NOT simply parrot what is contained in your resume/CV! Your cover letter is meant to reveal the strengths within your skill set, so showcase your abilities accordingly.

4. The Middle

In the second paragraph of your killer cover letter you must give concrete examples of your qualifications. The company you would like to work for has an exact need that they want to fill – be sure to target that need! Outline a few specific activities you have performed in your career that best pairs you for the position.

Here is where your storytelling skills will come in handy. Describe scenarios in which you succeeded in overcoming some obstacles in a recent job. Each instance should show how you met the need that the company is looking for. If the position calls for troubleshooting skills and phone etiquette, then describe how you handled that difficult tech support call and turned the customer around. If your prospective employer wants someone to fill a sales position, don’t be afraid to show exactly how many contracts you secured for your corporation. These instances should come out of the experience delineated in your resume: make them colorful, concise and effective. Some examples:

“Recently, I was Vice President of Sales and Marketing for ABC Bank. Our account acquisition was in a slump, even though we had offered $150 for each customer who referred a new account. The bank manager had set a challenging goal for the third quarter – one hundred new accounts. Since we live in a small town, I decided to capitalize on a grass roots effort to get the word out. I posted flyers at the local college campus, supermarkets and mini-malls, and I even executed a social media campaign on behalf of the ABC branch. I managed to get 30 new accounts in the first month, and my own sales portfolio included over 100 accounts by the end of the quarter.”

“In 2013, I was Project Manager for TechGuru’s recent app, JoyfulNoise. There were a few hurdles to overcome: the interface needed to be tighter, there were a few bugs, and there were similar products on the market. As the lead, I decided to improve the user interface myself, thereby freeing up my team to work out the software issues. Finally, we added a new feature to the product which allowed users to share their ringtones with others on the platform. Since the time of its launch in December of 2013, JoyfulNoise has had an uptick in sales every single month.”

The story should have new information about your skills and abilities, within the framework of your resume. I repeat, do not just copy-and-paste the details of your resume into your cover letter. Beware: It will make your effort to WOW the hiring manager fall flat, forcing her to put your resume at the bottom of the pile.

A final note on bullets: it is en vogue nowadays to include bullet points in the middle paragraph of your cover letter. Using bullet points is a simple way to get the attention of the reader, but it can also distract from a well-thought out narrative.

–          Bullet points can give quick detail

–          They effectively draw immediate focus

–          But they will also detract from everything else you wrote!

These are very easy ways to make things “pop” in your cover letter. If this is a very important position for you, take the time to follow the classic format of the cover letter. Besides, would you want the hiring manager to have to look at the same old bullet points she sees in every single cover letter? No! You want your letter to stand out. Therefore, nix the bullets.

5. The Conclusion

Your conclusion should be the shortest of your paragraphs. There are three aspects of a final paragraph: an invitation to look at the resume, an interest in an interview, and gratitude for the opportunity. First, you must direct the hiring manager to examine your resume. If this is a digital cover letter, say something like: “Please consider my attached resume for the position.” If this is a physical letter, then refer to the resume as “enclosed.” Also, if you are applying online, it is good to place any hyperlinks to pertinent web pages in this final paragraph, as in: “Please visit my LinkedIn page.” Where possible, incorporate the link into the text (as in the underlined portion), and avoid using cumbersome web addresses.

Second, express your interest in meeting the hiring manager. Now this could mean a face-to-face interview. On the other hand, many hiring departments choose to interview over the phone or over the internet using Skype. For this reason, keep the method of the interview ambiguous: “Looking forward to speaking with you further,” or “I would like to arrange an interview to discuss my qualifications and to learn more about the organization.”

It is also acceptable in this paragraph to mention you are available immediately, and your salary is negotiable. While these are not requirements for the cover letter, certain positions are highly desirable and you may want to express your eagerness in this manner.

Most importantly, thank the hiring manager for her time. Just think of how many of these letters she has to read! If you show your gratitude in a genuine fashion, as well as your interest in the opportunity, she will be more apt to consider you for the position. Don’t just assume your abilities can speak for themselves: a little bit of kindness and deference can go a long way.

6. The Valediction

The closing remark in your killer cover letter should be short and sweet, not long and saccharine. The two most acceptable valedictions: “Sincerely,” and “Best regards,” to be exact (though many writers shorten the latter to simply, “Best,”). Sometimes I prefer to say “Cordially,” but that is just to shake things up. (Note: if you are writing to an employer in the UK, “Faithfully,” is the most effective valediction.)

7. The Final Draft

Edit your cover letter. Read it, re-read it, and then give it to someone else to read. Spell-check will overlook many grammatical errors, so you must be diligent. Try reading it backwards, sentence by sentence. Be sure to check that the content is sound, and you have told a good overall story. Verify spellings of names and addresses, ensuring every detail is correct. Finally, if you’re furnishing a physical copy for your employer, be sure to print it on decent paper.

An excellent cover letter requires you pay great attention to detail, and that you put yourself in the shoes of the HR department. It is more-than-okay to showcase your talents and to entertain (a little bit). Be empathetic, and imagine what you would want to read. Most of all, recognize that you are the best person for the position, and reveal your wondrous story – you’re bound to land that job with your killer cover letter!

Featured photo credit: Ninja The Last Thing You See/Joey Gannon via upload.wikimedia.org

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Writing a Killer Cover Letter

Differentiate Yourself From Others

Too many job seekers focus on creating the perfect resume only to undermine their efforts with a slapdash cover letter that was put together as an afterthought. But writing a perfect cover letter takes time and effort and can make the difference between your application being passed over or moved on to the interview stage.  

A well-crafted cover letter is your chance to show a bit of personality and let the hiring manager know you’ve done your due diligence on the position and the company.   

• Make a good impression beginning with the opening. Out-of-date greetings like “To Whom It May Concern” or “Dear Sir or Madam” not only seem overly formal, they also show that you haven’t taken the initiative to unearth the name of the decision maker. It’s unlikely that the hiring manager’s name won’t be listed in the job description. So search on the company website, on LinkedIn or even Google to help find the right name. Addressing the hiring manager directly makes you stand out because it indicates that you have made the effort to track it down.
• Make it unique to the job. Rather than sending a generic letter that could apply to any job at any company, your opening sentence should show that your letter was crafted in response to this specific job. For example, “I was thrilled to see your listing for a data entry specialist in the Cleveland office” says a lot more than “I am responding to your job opening.”    
• Make sure to write clearly. Use active, not passive, voice and write simply and succinctly. Avoid pretentious words, phrases or jargon. Use short paragraphs and keep your letter to a single page. Make sure to proofread carefully, and then to ask someone to proofread again. Misspellings and grammar mistakes put a lot of job applicants in the no-go pile.  
• Include relevant experience. Your cover letter gives you a chance to show how you’ll handle the tasks you’ll have on the job. “When you read the job description, make sure you respond directly with examples,” says employment and career coach Anita Blanchard. “If a company say they need someone with sales experience, mention your sales experience and then refer to it your resume for more detail.”  
• Be careful not to just repeat what’s on your resume. Instead, aim to showcases your passion and interest in the specific job for which you’re applying. Instead of telling them why that job would be so good for you, tell them why you’ll be so good for that job and the organization. “Do not say things like ‘this would be a great opportunity to advance my career,’” says Blanchard. “They don’t care about that. They want to know that you are a good fit for their organization and this position.”   
• Offer specific examples of what you’ve done. Read the job description carefully and look for ways your experience aligns with the job requirements. For example, if a job description for a communications assistant calls for someone who can help copy editing presentations and scripts, don’t say you’re looking for a chance to hone your copy editing and proofing skills. Instead, describe the experience you gained doing that for the college newspaper or during a summer internship. Career coach Monique Betty suggests choosing three qualifications listed in the job description and then explaining what you’ve done to meet each of those requirements.  
• Finish strong. End your cover letter with a short paragraph reiterating your enthusiasm for the job and a sentence or two of why you think you’re the best fit. Add a quick thank you for being considered say you look forward to hearing back regarding next steps.  

– Melba Newsome

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How To Write A Killer Cover Letter And Get Hired Today!

Applying for a job, but aren’t sure about how to write a cover letter?

No need to worry, because we’ve got you covered with everything you’ll need to include in one and how it should be structured! If you also need some guidance with your resume , you can check out our guide  here .

Ready to write a killer cover letter? Let’s get started!

What is a Cover Letter? Salutation First Paragraph: Introduction Second Paragraph: Why this Job? Why You? Third Paragraph: Conclusion and ‘Valediction’

What is a Cover Letter?

Basically, a cover letter is a one-page summary of the most pertinent points of your resumé . Over the 3 to 5 paragraphs of your cover letter, you should explain how your past experiences relate to the role you are applying for.

It is a good idea to keep in mind that even if they don’t request a cover letter, it is always a good idea to send one anyway . This is so you can really highlight your strongest qualifications beyond those presented in your resume —think of this as a good chance to demonstrate how well you can write.

Cover letters can be the most dreaded part of forming your job application, but by following these simple steps and tips and tricks, you will master the art of writing killer cover letters in no time at all!

It is very important to make a good first impression. The best way to achieve this is through the appearance of your cover letter.

Think about the layout of the cover letter. In the top-centre, have your name in a large, bold font so that the company can quickly identify you .

In the line below that, type out your address, phone number and email address. After that, spell out the date e.g. January 22nd, 2020.

In the next line, you should include the name and job title of whom you are writing to, the company name and the company address. It should look a little something like this:

There! It’s not so hard after you break it down.

Now that you’ve done the bulk of your personal and contact details, you should address the hiring manager appropriately. Do whatever you can to find out who the Hiring Manager is.

Although around 27% of people currently use “To whom it may concern”, hiring managers are actually much much more likely to pay closer attention to a cover letter that is personally addressed —for example, as “Dear Mr. Jones”. As for other possible salutations, most people tend to gravitate towards:

• Dear Mr/Miss/Ms/Mrs…
• Dear Hiring Manager
• Dear Human Resources Manager
• Dear Sir/Madam

The two next main aspects to consider include the spacing and the font. Try to have 1.5 spacing. For the font, keep it simple and easy to read  — 12-point font and yes, Comic Sans MS is definitely off limits !

Generally, employers prefer the more professional fonts, such as:

• Times New Romans
• Arial Narrow
• Book Antiqua
• Trebuchet MS

First Paragraph: Introduction

Open up with a simple sentence that will catch the attention of the reader. At the same time, be clear and concise and avoid waffling on.

For example: “Capitalising on my strong work ethic as a highly driven and enthusiastic high school student, I am writing to apply for a part-time position as a retail assistant.”

Also, focus on your language and your tone of voice . Hiring managers have heaps of experience with cover letters, and are able to immediately differentiate between the ones that have been carefully written, as opposed to those that submit a cover letter just for the sake of it.

To demonstrate the power of language, take a look at the following example. Think about which one you would hire.

Make sure you mention how you discovered the company and how you found out that they were hiring . In the same paragraph, mention around 2 to 3 skills and qualifications that will signal to the hiring manager that “THIS IS EXACTLY WHAT I AM LOOKING FOR!”

Second Paragraph: Why This Job? Why You?

What makes you so special and so deserving of this job? Why would it be better to give you the job, as opposed to somebody else?

Reflect on why you are so interested in this job in the first place. Amplify what you already have in your resumé, instead of merely repeating it—this should span around 1 to 2 paragraphs.

Chances are, there will be hundreds of other applicants who will also try to sell themselves through their cover letter. However, some of them will make the mistake of telling the employer all about how getting the position will help their personal and professional development.

Unfortunately, the bottom line is that they just don’t care. At the end of the day, employers are interested in how people can help the company, as opposed to how the company can help the people.

“Say not what the company can do for you, say what you can do for the company.”

Usually, job listings will include a section where they list attributes and qualities that they look for in a prospective employee . For example:

To be successful you must:

• Have a passion for retail
• Be highly motivated with outstanding customer service and communication skills
• Enjoy working in a team environment

What we require:

• Excellent communication skills in both verbal and written
• Must be motivated and have a great eye for detail
• Able to work with minimal supervision
• Efficient cash handling and POS experience is desirable
• Experience resolving customer complaints and making quick decisions to ensure happy customers and timely accurate services
• Enthusiasm and willingness to learn with a “can do” attitude
• Flexibility across retail trading hours including weekends, public holidays and late night shifts

Think of the above as ‘criteria’ —sort of similar to the HSC marking guidelines, if you will. Use it as a guide as to how you might shape and structure your cover letter.

You should aim to give solid evidence of your qualifications and skills , which can take form in several ways. This includes recounting a scenario where you displayed certain skills (such as teamwork and leadership) or describing what you do in your current role .

For example, consider the two below:

Whatever you write about, make sure you are being honest with the hiring manager and do not sugarcoat anything. Keep it positive and accurate.

Third Paragraph: Conclusion and ‘Valediction’

Whew! You’ve endured through the tough bits of writing a killer cover letter. But it is still important to finish as strongly as you started to really wow your hiring manager.

Still, keep it short and sweet. With that being said, try not to write any more than 3 sentences—you should invite them to review your resumé, request to follow-up at their convenience and express your gratitude for the opportunity.

You should also include an appropriate valediction , which is basically just saying goodbye. Some of the most popular ones are:

• Sincerely…
• Best regards…
• Kind regards…
• Faithfully…
• Cordially…
• Thank you…
• Respectfully…

Just like writing essays for your HSC exams or school assessments,  writing cover letters will get easier with time and practice. Like every piece of writing, it is important to edit and revisit your use of language.

Make sure that for every cover letter you write, that you edit the heck out of them. Double and triple-check that you are only containing information relevant to the job. Be succinct. Be confident. But above all, be honest.

Wondering how to find a job once you’ve finished high school? Check out our guide here!

Interested in working at Art of Smart? Find out more!

Looking for some extra help with your HSC studies?

We pride ourselves on our inspirational hsc coaches and mentors.

We offer tutoring and mentoring for Years K-12 in a variety of subjects, with personalised lessons conducted one-on-one in your home or at our state of the art campus in Hornsby!

To find out more and get started with an inspirational tutor and mentor  get in touch today! 

Give us a ring on 1300 267 888, email us at  [email protected]  or check us out on  Facebook !

Frances Tso  recently graduated from Sydney Girls High School and is known among her friends as the crazy dog lady without a dog. With an avid interest in the dynamics of global change, she decided her HSC major work was not enough to quench her thirst as to how regional interactions impact political and cultural relationships. So, she has decided to study International Studies at UNSW, majoring in International Relations. In her spare time, Frances is either teaching violin, re-watching episodes of Friends for the twentieth time, or perfecting the art on how to be a dog aficionado.

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• Michael Bay Docuseries 'Born Evil' Examines the Crimes of Navy Vet and Serial Killer Hadden Clark

In 1992, 24-year-old Harvard graduate Laura Houghteling disappeared from her home in Bethesda, Maryland. Based on the scene, authorities believed she was stabbed to death in her sleep, but her bedroom was meticulously cleaned after the crime, and little evidence remained. What police did find was a hair in Houghteling’s hairbrush, one that turned out to be from a wig – a wig worn by the family’s gardener, a known cross-dresser.

The gardener was Hadden Clark, a Navy-diagnosed paranoid schizophrenic who was then linked to the 1986 disappearance of 6-year-old Michele Dorr in nearby Silver Spring. Once in custody, Clark claimed that another persona of his, Kristin Bluefin, was the real killer, responsible for nearly a dozen murders. Clark told police that he had hundreds of “trophies” and offered to lead law enforcement to his victims’ burial sites.

A new five-part, three-night miniseries from Investigation Discovery and producer Michael Bay (“Pearl Harbor”) sets out to reveal the extent of Hadden Clark’s claimed years-long murder spree in “Born Evil: The Serial Killer and the Savior,” beginning Monday, Sept. 2, 2024.

Bay is known for directing blockbuster action films, but as a producer, his resume gets a little more variance. He has previously lent his experience to the 2012 space program film “Uncharted Territory: NASA’s Future Then and Now” and chasing gold in the depths of the ocean on the 2016 TV series “Billion Dollar Wreck.”

Bay’s latest series takes viewers inside the mind of Clark, who was eventually convicted of killing Dorr and Houghteling and remains a person of interest in potentially dozens of murders. “Born Evil: The Serial Killer and the Savior” tells Clark’s story through recorded conversations between the convicted killer and Bay, who personally interviewed him in a Maryland prison over many hours.

“Throughout my career, I’ve always focused on meeting real people -- from scientists of all kinds to alligator wranglers, law enforcement agents to bank robbers, and even kings and queens -- gaining true insights for my films,” Bay said in a statement. “‘Born Evil' is my first venture into the documentary world, and it revolves around a serial killing family you have never heard of.”

On the surface, Clark seemed to come from the ideal American family. He was born in July 1952 to a father who was a skilled chemist and a mother, Flavia, who could trace her lineage to the Mayflower. His father was a Korean War veteran, and both parents were active with the Boy Scouts, PTA meetings and church groups.

But beneath the surface, both parents were alcoholics with deeper issues. The young Clark had behavioral issues, bullying the neighborhood children and fighting with his younger siblings. One of his brothers, Bradfield Clark, was convicted in the 1984 murder of a female coworker in San Francisco. The brother dismembered his victim and is even alleged to have eaten parts of the corpse.

Psychological researchers describe an abusive home life for the Hadden boys. His mother was disappointed Clark wasn’t born a girl and took to dressing him in girls’ clothing and calling him “Kristen.” His father simply called him “the retard,” and would hit him with a belt to try to keep him from dressing in girls’ clothes.

When he was old enough, Clark was sent by his parents to the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York. After graduating from the prestigious institute in 1974, he had a pedigree that could land him any cooking job in America, and it did – for a while. He had a vindictive streak, however, that could be triggered by any perceived slight, and his bent for revenge, along with strange behavior, cost him jobs time and again.

Eventually, work dried up and Clark joined the Navy as a culinary specialist in 1982. By 1985, his behavior saw him kicked out of the service, but this time the Navy diagnosed the problem: Clark was a paranoid schizophrenic, " manifested by persecutory and grandiose delusions ." He was given treatment at a VA medical center in Washington state. His first legal troubles began that same year, when he was arrested for petty theft.

Unable to secure consistent work, Clark lived in an old Datsun pickup in the woods near Bethesda. He worked as a gardener or handyman for money to eat. Local church groups recalled him being strange, but never thought of him as particularly violent or aggressive. Yet, he was arrested in 1989 for vandalizing property owned by a former landlord. His arrest resulted in one year’s supervised probation and a court order to continue psychiatric treatment at the VA.

His probation officer, however, believed Clark was a danger to the public. He was soon to be proven correct. His brother Geoff would later allege that a concussion he received from his fellow sailors in the Navy might have been what caused his “danger potential to become unleashed.”

After linking Clark to Houghteling’s murder, he was convicted and sentenced to 30 years in prison. Investigators soon realized Clark was questioned years prior in relation to the disappearance of Dorr. The Dorr family lived two doors down from where Clark was staying with his brother. Police recalled he’d been nervous during questioning, but they pursued a different suspect.

They learned he’d been kicked out of his brother’s house for inappropriate behavior around children. It was Clark’s prison cellmate who eventually got a confession from Clark, who admitted to killing Dorr in a small bedroom in his brother’s house and meticulously cleaning the evidence, just as he had with Houghteling’s murder. Investigators later found Dorr’s blood between the slats of wood on the bedroom floor.

In 2000, Clark led authorities to the body of Dorr, but he also claimed to have killed a number of other victims, one as early as 1964, when he was just 12 years old. He was taken to Cape Cod, where he spent some time as a youth, to lead authorities to other possible burial sites, with some alleging that he could have killed as many as 11 women across Maryland, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Vermont and elsewhere. They didn’t find bodies, but they did find a bucket of jewelry, including some owned by Houghteling, that Clark claimed as trophies.

Bay said: “I spent countless hours personally speaking to [Clark] in prison so that I could get into the mind and psychology of a person who the FBI refers to as 'a person of interest' in over 20 states. ‘Born Evil’ could potentially open the door to solving many cold case murders.”

To learn more about Clark and his motives, watch Michael Bay’s “Born Evil: The Serial Killer and the Savior,” a five-episode docuseries which will air across three consecutive nights starting Monday, Sept. 2, 2024, on Investigation Discovery.

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