How to tame the cover letter in 8 steps

A short guide for a flawless result

Why do you feel stressed and anxious? What made you lie awake till the small hours of the morning and think about the new day with horror? You’ve just found the position of your dream, you’ve managed to write a super informative resume, but you know that one more beast is waiting to be tamed: a cover letter.

I know it can be a painful process, but you can do it with ease and in no time. Before you start, try to imagine that it’s somebody else who is writing a cover letter about you. It will help you to relax and sound natural. And now off you go. Here are the tips that will help you to navigate the process.

1. Research is everything

Research the company to apply as you need to write a custom letter for each position. The generic message repels a potential employer as it shows a lack of enthusiasm and low commitment to excel in the future job.

Look through the website of the company, paying attention to its tone, language and culture. It will help you to create a unique and relevant cover letter.

2. The hiring manager’s name is a key to success

It shows that you did proper research and makes a positive impression on the potential employer. You can find it searching the website of the company and LinkedIn.

3. The great layout makes the difference.

The cover letter should be easy to read, and it should be one page in length. Remember to use paragraphs for each new idea and leave a lot of white space for comfortable reading. Your cover letter will have only several seconds to impress the hiring manager. Give it a chance!

4. Content is the king

Avoid beginning with your name as it is evident from your resume. Go straight to the point.

Find the strong hook. Your intro paragraph can describe your values and stress how they are in line with the values of the company.

Highlight the best accomplishments you have achieved so far and what skills you used to succeed. Connect them with the position you are applying for and explain how they will help you in the new role.

5. Use the right tone

You don’t want to sound stiff or old-fashioned. So, it’s better to avoid using too formal language. If it is appropriate, try to be more conversational. Try to sound confident, but don’t exaggerate. Calling yourself “a unique specialist” or “one of a kind” can produce a negative impression.

6. It’s all about ending

Your ending should express your belief in positive feedback from the hiring manager, which can result in further contact and culminate with the invitation for an interview.

7. Strive to stand out from the crowd

Care less about the rules of writing the letter as it may limit your potential for expression. Try to stand out, be unconventional and memorable.

8. Editing as a final touch

Remember to proofread your cover letter, better with the help of a friend. Their feedback can be invaluable as small things matter.

How do you feel now? You’ve managed to grasp the main idea of the cover letter, haven’t you? Now it’s time to make yourself that coffee, savour its aroma, have a sip and sit down to tame the beast which can lead you to the job of your dreams.