Crafting a Winning Cover Letter: Essential Elements to Include
When it comes to applying for a job, a well-written cover letter can make all the difference. But, what to put on a cover letter to make it stand out from the competition? In this article, we’ll explore the essential elements to include in your cover letter to increase your chances of landing an interview.
The Importance of a Cover Letter
A cover letter is your chance to tell your story, showcase your skills, and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the position. It’s an opportunity to express your interest in the company and the role, and to explain why you’re the best fit. But, what to put on a cover letter to make it effective?
According to a survey by CareerBuilder, 58% of employers prefer a cover letter to be included with the resume. Moreover, 45% of employers say that a cover letter is an important factor in their hiring decision.
Essential Elements to Include
So, what to put on a cover letter? Here are the essential elements to include:
- Contact Information: Include your name, address, phone number, and email address.
- Date: Include the date you’re writing the letter.
- Employer Contact Information: Include the hiring manager’s name, title, company name, and address.
- Introduction: A brief introduction that explains how you came across the opportunity and why you’re interested in the role.
- Summary of Qualifications: A summary of your qualifications, skills, and experiences that align with the job requirements.
- Body Paragraphs: One or two paragraphs that provide specific examples of your accomplishments and experiences.
- Closing: A closing paragraph that thanks the reader for their time and consideration.
- Signature: Your signature, followed by your full name.
Tips for Writing a Winning Cover Letter
Here are some tips to keep in mind when writing your cover letter:
- Tailor your letter: Customize your letter to the specific job and company.
- Use keywords: Use keywords from the job description to demonstrate your qualifications.
- Keep it concise: Keep your letter to one page, unless specified otherwise.
- Use active language: Use active language to convey confidence and enthusiasm.
- Proofread: Proofread your letter multiple times to ensure error-free writing.
What to Put on a Cover Letter: Examples
Here’s an example of what to put on a cover letter:
Dear [Hiring Manager],
I am excited to apply for the [Job Title] role at [Company Name]. With [Number] years of experience in [Industry/Field], I am confident that I possess the skills and qualifications necessary to excel in this position.
In my current role at [Current Company], I have achieved [Desirable Accomplishment]. I am eager to bring my skills and experience to [Company Name] and contribute to the success of your team.
Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when writing your cover letter:
- Typos and grammatical errors: Make sure to proofread your letter multiple times.
- Generic letters: Customize your letter to the specific job and company.
- Lack of research: Research the company and the role to demonstrate your interest and enthusiasm.
- Too long or too short: Keep your letter to one page, unless specified otherwise.
Best Practices for Cover Letter Writing
Here are some best practices for cover letter writing:
| Best Practice | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a professional font | Use a professional font, such as Arial, Calibri or Helvetica. |
| Use a formal greeting | Use a formal greeting, such as “Dear [Hiring Manager]”. |
| Use active language | Use active language to convey confidence and enthusiasm. |
Resources for Cover Letter Writing
Here are some resources to help you with your cover letter writing:
- Sample Letter: A website that provides sample cover letters and templates.
- CareerBuilder: A website that provides career advice and resources, including cover letter writing tips.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a well-written cover letter can make a significant difference in your job application. By including the essential elements, tailoring your letter, and using keywords, you can increase your chances of landing an interview.
Remember to proofread your letter multiple times, and avoid common mistakes such as typos and grammatical errors.
By following these tips and best practices, you can craft a winning cover letter that showcases your skills and experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of a cover letter?
A cover letter is a document that accompanies your resume or CV, and serves as an introduction to your application. Its purpose is to provide a brief overview of your qualifications, skills, and experiences, and to express your interest in the role and company.
What should I include in my cover letter?
You should include your contact information, date, employer contact information, introduction, summary of qualifications, body paragraphs, closing, and signature. Additionally, you should tailor your letter to the specific job and company, and use keywords from the job description.
How long should my cover letter be?
Your cover letter should be one page, unless specified otherwise. It’s best to keep it concise and to the point, while still providing enough information to showcase your qualifications and experiences.
What are some common mistakes to avoid in my cover letter?
Some common mistakes to avoid include typos and grammatical errors, generic letters, lack of research, and letters that are too long or too short. Additionally, make sure to proofread your letter multiple times to ensure error-free writing.
