You know you need a cover letter, but you aren’t sure how to write a good one? We’ve got you covered! Follow this checklist and you’ll have an amazing cover letter in no time!
- Format and Contact Information
When writing a cover letter, it’s important to follow a certain order and format. You first start out by writing the date and your contact information. The hiring manager needs to be able to reach you if they want you to invite you for an interview. Be sure to include your name, phone number, and email right at the top of the cover letter where it can be seen at first glance. After putting in basic information, you then lead with an introduction, a body paragraph and a closing paragraph. - Introduction
The introduction is one of the most important parts in the cover letter. The introduction must be well written and because it is what the hiring manager reads first. Start by introducing yourself and give a little information about your background. After introducing yourself, go on to explain why you are writing the cover letter. Explain what attracted you to the company and to the position you’re applying for. When doing so, be sure to express your interest in the position and how you learned about the opening. Depending on whether you know the hiring manager personally or not, you can choose whether or not to keep a more casual or professional tone to the conversation. - Body Paragraph
The body paragraph of the cover letter is where you really sell yourself. In this part of the letter, explain why you would be the perfect candidate for the position you’re applying for. Draw attention to your various skills and accomplishments that serve as qualifications for the job. Use keywords from the job description itself to show how you’ve spent time reviewing the position and that you have what it takes to successfully perform the job. - Closing Paragraph
In your closing paragraph, restate your interest in the job and explain once more why you have all the qualifications for the job, and why they should take a chance on you. Remember, it’s about what you can do for them, not what they can do for you. Explain the reasons why you want to join the company while maintaining a friendly attitude and mention your preferred method of contact. At the end, you can include a signature that says “sincerely (insert your name here)”. - Proofread
In order to create the best cover letter possible, it is important that you proofread everything you have written. Proof reading allows you to check if there are any typos and if everything is grammatically correct. Perhaps you proofread and decide to add in more information about your accomplishments or previous job. Make sure to proofread your cover letter at least 2 times and feel free to ask a family member or friend to give you advice as needed.
Cover letters are important because they are the first things employers read when looking at your application. While it can seem difficult to write a good one, it isn’t impossible if you follow these easy steps.
This article was written by Nicholas Long.
Nicholas Long is a writer and a student at the American University in Bulgaria. He enjoys creating content and traveling to new countries.