Need to attach a cover letter with your application but don’t know how to write a cover letter? Here are some easy steps. Cover letter format and templates.
A cover letter is a letter of introduction that is attached to a resume or CV. The purpose of a cover letter is to give the employer an insight into your professional background. Cover letters are not always required but some companies still ask for them so they can gauge your skill and experience level.
Cover Letter Format
For writing an effective and a good cover letter you follow the following format:
- Header with contact information and date
- Greetings
- An opening paragraph
- Central 2,3 paragraphs
- A closing paragraph
- Letter ending with the signature
How to Write a Cover Letter
While writing a cover letter you need to show your skill and interest so that employer is convinced that you are their ideal candidate. You have a perfect resume and you are short-listed for a job but that company is also asking for a cover letter and you are stuck there
Here are a few simple steps that will help you how to write a cover letter:
Start With a Header
A cover letter header is a very first thing the hiring managers see. So make sure it is attractive. While writing a cover letter header include your personal information and the role-specific information. A header should include the following information:
- Your Name
- Your contact information
- Your address
- Date of application
- Recipient’s contact information
- Company Name
- Company address
Include Greetings
Try to find out the name of the person who will be reviewing your application for the job. Address your letter to that person with common business greetings. It will give a good impression to them and shows them how professional you are.
If you are unable to find the name then you greet with a position title like Dear Hiring Manager.
Start with an Introductory Paragraph
You need to understand this thing that recruiters have hundreds of applications so there is a possibility that they may not read every cover letter end to end. So you must catch their attention, so for this, you need to write an attention-grabbing introduction about yourself.
Start with some of your achievements relevant to the position that will grab the attention of the hiring manager.
Write an Opening Paragraph
In the opening paragraph mention the title of the position for which you are applying. Explain your interest in the role and company, which is the purpose of the cover letter.
Briefly give your expertise and qualifications for the role. Your opening paragraph should be impressive enough that should convince the hiring manager that you are the best fit for the position.
Write Middle Paragraphs
After an opening paragraph, write some short 3-4 line middle paragraphs. In these paragraphs try to explain why you are best for the desired role and the company. Highlight your skills and achievements. Try to use those keywords which were listed in the job descriptions. Mention those experiences which are best suited to the job.
Write a Closing Paragraph
Conclude your cover letter in the closing paragraph. In the closing paragraph you should:
- Wrap all the points which you have mentioned in previous paragraphs.
- Thanks to the hiring managers for their time.
- Finish with a call to action
End with Formal Closing
While writing the closing of a cover letter, mention that you will be looking forward to hearing from the employer about the next steps. Use the formal closing like Best Regards, Sincerely, Thank-you, etc. The formal closing of the cover letters leaves a good impression on the hiring manager.
Cover Letter Templates
There are many cover letter templates available, and choosing the right one is very important. A good cover template shows recruiters that you are very professional and very serious about the job. There are many websites available that offer different cover letter templates for creating a good cover letter.
Your cover letter should not be too detailed, after all, it is just a summary of professional skills and experiences. It is precise and written professionally. Proofread your cover letter before submitting it to make sure that you have not skipped any important points.
Comments: 2
Itís difficult to find well-informed people in this particular subject, but you sound like you know what youíre talking about! Thanks
Pingbacks and Tracebacks
[…] READ MORE: How to Write a Cover Letter […]