A cover letter is basically an introduction to you, why you want a job, and an invitation to your potential employer to read your resume.
If you’re applying directly to someone’s email; use your cover letter as your email. No thinking required, and a lot better than: Hi potential employer. Please see attached my cover letter and resume. Love, Billy-Bob.
Your cover letter should change slightly for every job you apply for. So, you might have a few of them. That’s because you need it to look personal, and like you specifically want to work for that company, not just get a random job. It looks more professional to customise it, and it will help you stand out.
Step 1:
Name your document. Your name is your introduction, put it directly on the file.
“first name last name - cover letter”.
Step 2:
In the file put in your name, and the date you're submitting the application. This way, they think you wrote it just for them.
Your Name
Date Of Application
Step 3:
Address the letter to a human. If you have their specific name, awesome, if not - go for
“To the Hiring Manager,”
Step 4:
What is your letter about? Introduce what you're going for, and how you found it.
I am writing to express my interest in *DESIRED JOB* position at *COMPANY NAME* as advertised *ONLINE, INSTORE ETC*.
If it wasn’t advertised, just don’t add that part.
Step 5:
What makes you worthy of this job?
If you’re going for your first job, you can use your professional summary from your resume here. Or, write a simple paragraph about what your last job was, and what skills you have that would be useful to this new place is a good idea.
During my recent employment as *JOB TITLE* for *EMPLOYER NAME* I have built many skills that I strongly believe would transfer easily into the advertised position.
The good thing about that sentence is it never has to change, except to customise the job role and place.
If you haven’t had a previous job, then we’ll tweak it.
I am looking to enter the workforce and secure my first job in *INDUSTRY* I have built many skills that I strongly believe would transfer easily into the advertised position.
Your industry for your first job might be retail, hospitality, or administration work. It could be anything, but a quick google search to know the professional name for what you’re going for is a great idea.
I have *THIS MANY YEARS* experience in the industry, and enjoy
Then pick a tag line either about teamwork, or working independently.
working closely with my team to ensure consistent results.
Or
working independently to achieve goals.
Or - again, if you’re going for your first job. Say something like
I am enthusiastic and looking forward to learning new skills.
Now, we’ll pick a handful of skills to make you sound like you're way better than other people applying. Adding some key words that most job ads have in them makes you look well rounded and like you really put effort into this.
I am adaptable, reliable, and punctual.
I am flexible, resilient, and an effective communicator.
I am organised, kind, and hard working.
And yes, I realise this sounds a lot like those positive affirmations that therapists tell you to do to hype yourself up.
Another good buzz phrase next is to explain something you're really good at, or really like doing that is relevant to the job you’re going for.
My strengths include learning new programs and skills, and working closely with team members to help develop their skills.
I am a strong communicator, and enjoy problem solving with others.
I enjoy working in a team to achieve goals.
I am proficient in google sheets and enjoy creating automated tables to display information.
Just something simple that says “I’m good at something the job ad said you're looking for”
Step 6:
Tell them there’s more to learn about you. They know that, but it’s a good idea.
I have attached a copy of my resume that more fully details my background and work experience.
This is also a great spot to add your contact info, and let them know they can reach out if they want more information. They probably won’t need anything else, but it looks professional.
Should you require any further information please feel free to contact me by email at *your email address* or by phone at *phone number*.
Step 7:
Sign off in a way that is polite, but encourages them to contact you.
I am highly motivated and looking forward to shifting into a new position. I would be a great addition to your team.
Or
Thank you in advance for your consideration for this role. I look forward to speaking with you soon.
Then, a professional sign off.
Sincerely,
Your Name.
And that’s it. It shouldn’t need to be over half a page or so for a simple job. As you get more experience, you can add in new skills and other reasons you’d be a good fit.
