What Is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter, often referred to as an application letter, serves as a communication tool for potential employers, expressing your interest in a specific role and highlighting your qualifications. Typically submitted alongside your resume, this letter should focus on your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements. Unlike your resume, a cover letter gives you the opportunity to elaborate on your career journey and explain why you are an ideal candidate. Conducting thorough research on the company and the role is crucial to avoid generic statements and to make a meaningful impact.

Key Considerations Before Writing

Before you begin drafting, compile all essential information. Reflect on your experiences and how they relate to the job at hand. Take note of any specific accomplishments or skills you wish to emphasize. Document how you came across the job—whether through a referral, an advertisement, or a job board—and any special instructions provided. Additionally, researching the company's culture and mission will help tailor your cover letter effectively. Whenever possible, address the letter to a specific individual; if not, use a general salutation like "Dear Hiring Manager."

Format of a Cover Letter

A cover letter should adhere to a professional business letter format, which includes:

• A header with the date and your contact details
• A greeting or salutation
• An introductory paragraph
• One or more body paragraphs
• A concluding paragraph
• A closing and your signature

Keep the letter to one page, utilize a professional font such as Arial or Helvetica, and set the font size between 10-12 points. Ensure that the text is left-aligned with single spacing and one-inch margins.

Steps for Composing a Cover Letter

1. Begin with Your Header

   Start with your personal and role-specific information at the top. You may center your name and address if you prefer.

Header Template

Your Name

Your City and ZIP Code

Your Phone Number

Your Email Address

Date

Recipient's Name

Recipient's Title

Company Name

Company Address

Header Example

Ali Lang

[email protected]

555 Orchard Lane, Las Vegas, NV

555. 888-4000

May 5, 20XX

Terry Washington

Revolve Inc.

123 Vineyard Drive, Las Vegas, NV

2. Incorporate a Greeting

   Identify the name of the individual who will review your application and address them directly. Use salutations such as "Dear [First and Last Name]" or "Dear [Position Title]." Avoid generic phrases like "To Whom It May Concern."

Greeting Example

Dear Hiring Manager,

Dear Tyler Wallace,

3. Craft an Engaging Opening Paragraph

   Clearly state the position you are applying for and where you discovered the job listing. Convey your enthusiasm for the role and the organization. Make a strong first impression by being clear and engaging.

Opening Paragraph Example

I am thrilled to apply for the Graphic Designer position at Cloud Clearwater, which I discovered on Indeed. Your expansion into new product lines resonates with my expertise in video and animation. As a long-time admirer of your products, I am eager to contribute my creativity and style to your team.

4. Add a Middle Paragraph

   Provide a concise overview of your relevant experience. Highlight significant accomplishments and skills pertinent to the job. Use specific examples and incorporate keywords from the job description, focusing on recent achievements.

Second Paragraph Example

As the Director of Human Resources at Wes Morgan Philips, I implemented efficiency initiatives for a team of 540 employees. At Jenkins Technology Solutions, I successfully developed a retention strategy that reduced employee turnover by 50%.

5. Conclude with a Strong Closing Paragraph

   Summarize a key achievement or skill that aligns with the role. Instead of merely reiterating your resume, share a specific example that illustrates your suitability. If you are transitioning careers, mention any transferable skills.

Closing Paragraph Example

Achieving ambitious marketing objectives is a priority for me. I enjoy delivering presentations and leveraging organizational strengths. My experience at River Tech led to a 45% increase in customer engagement, and I am excited to bring that same drive to your team.

6. End with a Professional Signoff

   Wrap up by summarizing your interest in the position and your qualifications. Briefly express your eagerness for the next steps in the hiring process.

Signoff Example

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how my background aligns with the sales role at TradeLot. My proven success and TradeLot’s high-quality offerings make for a powerful partnership.

Cover Letter Examples

Here are two illustrative cover letter examples: one traditional and one creative. Each letter incorporates specific phrases from the job description to demonstrate suitability.

Example 1: Administrative Assistant

Job Description: Support managers by managing calendars, arranging travel, and performing other tasks. Strong interpersonal skills and attention to detail are essential.

Cover Letter:

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am interested in the administrative assistant position at [Company Name]. I have a strong background in administrative roles, including coordinating a summit for senior executives. I managed travel arrangements, organized meals, and led an internal team. I am drawn to this opportunity due to the growth potential at [Company Name]. I look forward to discussing my experience in more detail.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Example 2: Brand Copywriter

Job Description: Seeking an experienced copywriter with a keen eye for balance and the ability to adapt brand voice. Must be able to write for various mediums and maintain brand voice.

Cover Letter:

Hello,

My love for writing, inspired by my grandmother, combined with my recent passion for crossword puzzles, has significantly enhanced my writing skills. At my current agency, I am recognized for my creativity and dedication, as reflected in my positive performance evaluations. I am eager to bring my talents to [Company Name] and contribute meaningfully to your team.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

In this video, you'll learn how to craft a powerful cover letter in just three straightforward steps, ensuring your application stands out.

This guide provides a comprehensive look at writing a top-notch cover letter, complete with templates and examples to maximize your chances of landing any job.