After weeks of searching for a job online, you finally find the one that matches your profile and skills. You quickly prepared your resume and started the application process. But how do you write a cover letter that will stand out and catch the attention of recruiters among the thousands of applications they will receive? Find out how to create a brilliant cover letter below!
What is a cover letter?
A cover letter is a simple one-page document submitted alongside a resume and job application. It will introduce you to the hiring manager and highlight your professional and academic background. The purpose of a cover letter is to express the reasons for pursuing a specific educational or employment opportunity and the skills that will help you get the job.
Remember that a cover letter is never an alternative to your CV. It should always be seen as a complement to strengthen your job or academic application. It is imperative to avoid repeating what you have stated in your resume and provide a more detailed context about your motivations, aspirations, and qualifications as a candidate.
Learn how to write a cover letter quickly, and get the dream job you deserve. Discover the specific format of cover letters in Canada below!
Why do you need a cover letter?
A compelling cover letter can pique the interest of any recruiter and get them to invite you for an interview. However, a cover letter can only serve that purpose if you write it well. Keep in mind that recruiters receive hundreds of applications for every job ad they post online, and you have to focus on highlighting yours.
Recruiters tend to be very picky and are only interested in candidates who can objectively demonstrate their skills using the right words and cover letter format. Indeed, only the candidates with an attention-grabbing cover letter and resume will be chosen for the first round of interviews. Discover the tips and tricks to write the best one according to the type of job position you are applying for.
Top tips to properly write a cover letter
Crafting a compelling cover letter is essential for leaving a lasting impact on potential employers and improving your likelihood of securing an interview. Below, you'll find critical advice and recommendations to help you create an impactful cover letter that showcases your strengths and enthusiasm while aligning seamlessly with your resume.
1. Tailor your cover letter
Customizing your cover letter for each position to which you apply is critical. This means avoiding sending the same cover letter for all your applications. We recommend researching the company and the position and explaining how your skills and experience align with the organization's requirements and values.
2. Use appropriate industry-related language
Using professional and industry-specific language is crucial to demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of the field. This can include relevant technical terms and descriptions of experiences that demonstrate your familiarity with the field.
3. Verify your contact information
Be sure to provide your contact information clearly, including your full name, email address, and phone number. Ensure this information is updated in your cover letter and resume to facilitate communication with the employer.
4. Add three reasons why you are the best candidate
Concentrate on highlighting the top qualities and accomplishments most relevant to the position. Please get to the point and identify and communicate how your skills and experience can benefit the company and meet its needs.
5. Avoid spelling and grammatical errors
Thoroughly proofread your cover letter for any spelling or punctuation errors. Accuracy and correctness in writing are crucial to conveying a professional image. Let's dive into how to write a cover letter like a pro and discover different types of cover letters.
What six things should a cover letter include?
Now that you know the type of cover letter you want to write according to the job position you are applying for. Follow these simple guidelines to write an attention-grabbing cover letter that will get you hired, including all the right elements to excel.
1. Start with a header
It is essential to start your cover letter with contact information, also known as the header. There are specific elements you must include in your header. For example:
- Phone number
- Name
- Email address
- Name of the company receiving the application
- Name of the hiring manager
If you have relevant social media profiles or a website that showcases your skills, you may also include them. However, there are certain things you must not include in your header, for example, your address (it should be in your resume) and an unprofessional email. Research the hiring manager's name and check them out on LinkedIn.
2. Write a punctual introduction
Most recruiters don't have the time to read every cover letter they receive from the beginning to the end. They scan through the first few lines to pick the best candidate; that is why you need an attention-grabbing introduction. Once your intro captivates their mind, they will stay glued to your letter and read to the end.
Focus on what you bring to the table, and ask yourself, "What can I help the company achieve with my skills?" This is the kind of content recruiters are interested in every cover letter.
3. Explain why the company should hire you
In this section of your cover letter, you should highlight how your skills, experience, and personal values fit perfectly with the company's requirements and culture. This is when you convince the recruiter that you are the perfect candidate by giving proven examples of your achievements and how you can replicate the same strategy for their business.
4. Explain why you are the best for the job
Explain how your skills and experience align with the demands of the job position. Companies want to hire candidates who fit perfectly into the job, and they go the extra mile to hire applicants who show they have the right skills and knowledge and are highly passionate about the job. Research the company's core values, culture, and work ethics. This would help you write a perfect cover letter and even help you prepare better for a phone interview.
5. Conclude with a Call to Action
In the concluding session of your cover letter, thank the recruiter for their time and end with a call to action. For example, you could say, "I hope to hear from you soon." Lastly, express your motivation and enthusiasm for participating in the recruitment process.
6. Use a suitable closing format
Finally, insert a formal closing at the end, and you are good to go. You could use popular closing styles such as Best regards, Kind regards, Thank you, etc. Congratulations! Now, you have successfully written an attention-grabbing cover letter. Before you send it to the recruiter, ensure you proofread your work for errors and grammar mistakes.
Now that you know how to write a kick-ass cover letter, apply for the position you seek in any company you choose. Nothing should stop you now! We are sure you will be contacted for an interview after sending this excellent cover letter. Discover the phone job interview questions to expect.
Some cover letter samples
Below are some cover letter examples carefully crafted to match three distinct job positions. If you're looking for inspiration, keep reading to explore compelling samples of effective cover letters.
Example 1: Mechanical Engineer Cover Letter
[Your Name]
[City, Province, Postal Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager's Name],
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, Province, Postal Code]
Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],
I am writing to express my interest in the Mechanical Engineer Junior position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. With a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from [University Name], I am eager to apply my academic knowledge and practical skills to contribute to your team.
Throughout my internships and coursework, I became highly skilled in using CAD software and worked well on team projects. These experiences have given me the technical expertise and problem-solving abilities to succeed in a fast-changing engineering environment.
My passion for finding new engineering solutions and dedication to continually learning make me stand out. My skills in [specific relevant skills or technologies] are an excellent fit for the needs of [Company Name].
I look forward to discussing how my background and technical skills can contribute to [Company Name]'s success in delivering high-quality engineering solutions. Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 2: Financial Analyst Cover Letter
[Your Name]
[City, Province, Postal Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager's Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, Province, Postal Code]
Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],
I am applying for the Financial Analyst position at [Company Name] that I saw advertised on [where you found the job posting]. I have a Bachelor's degree in Finance from [University Name] and [number] years of experience in financial analysis and reporting. I am eager for the opportunity to contribute to your respected organization.
At [Current Company Name], I analyze financial data, create detailed reports, and give strategic recommendations to support decision-making. My strong analytical skills and financial modeling and forecasting expertise help me provide valuable insights to senior management.
My dedication to accuracy, attention to detail, and ability to thrive in fast-paced environments distinguish me as a candidate. I am eager to bring my quantitative skills and analytical mindset to [Company Name] and contribute to its financial strategies and goals.
Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to discuss how my background and skills align with the needs of [Company Name]. I appreciate your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
The downside of these excellent cover letter formats is that you will now have to be prepared to receive hundreds of emails from different companies looking to interview you. But, after going through an interview, what's next? Find out how to write a thank you letter after a job interview.
Wrap up!
In short, writing an impactful cover letter is crucial to stand out from the many applications a recruiter receives. Not only does this letter complement your resume, but it also allows you to showcase your motivation and fit with the company's specific values and needs.
Customizing each letter to the position and company in question, using professional language, and demonstrating how your skills and experience can contribute to organizational success will significantly increase your chances of securing an interview.
Don't underestimate the power of a well-written cover letter to open doors to the career opportunity you deserve - prepare for the next step in your career with confidence!
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