The cover letter is a small introduction or an opportunity to connect your skills, experiences, and aspirations with the specific needs of a potential employer.
Crafting an impactful cover letter goes behind briefing about yourself or showcasing your values skills, demonstrating your enthusiasm and more.
Overall, cover letters make a strong impression on employers. But how do you write a cover letter that stands out?
In this blog, we will guide you through what is a cover letter, the types of cover letters with examples, how to write a cover letter, certain tips and what to avoid while crafting your cover letter. With these expert tips, you will be able to create different types of cover letters and reflect your voice and written communication skills.
Table of Contents:
A cover letter is a one-page business letter that an individual needs to submit while applying for a job, along with his/her resume. This piece of persuasive writing will aim to convey to the employer why you are a great candidate for the particular job profile position or organisation.
A complete cover letter should include the following:
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
Date: [Month Day, Year]
[Recipient's Name]
[Recipient's Job Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Subject: Application for [Job Title]
Dear [Recipient's Name],
[Introduction]
Start with a strong opening that explains why you are writing. Mention the position you are applying for and where you found the job listing. Briefly state why you are excited about the role or the company. For example:
"I am excited to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Job Board/Company Website]. With my skills in [specific skills], I am eager to contribute to your team and support your mission of [specific company goal or value]."
[Body Paragraph 1: Your Qualifications]
Highlight your relevant experience, skills, and accomplishments that make you a strong candidate. Relate your qualifications directly to the job description. For example:
"In my previous role as a [Your Previous Job Title] at [Your Previous Company], I successfully [specific achievement]. This experience has equipped me with [specific skills or qualities], which I believe align perfectly with the requirements of this position."
[Body Paragraph 2: Why You’re a Good Fit]
Explain why you are interested in this particular role and company. Show that you’ve done your research by mentioning specific aspects of the company or job that appeal to you.
"I am particularly drawn to [Company Name] because of its commitment to [specific value or achievement]. My skills in [specific area] and my passion for [related field] make me eager to contribute to your team."
[Conclusion]
Summarize your interest in the role and your qualifications. Thank the recipient for their time and express enthusiasm for the opportunity to interview. For example:
"Thank you for considering my application. I would be delighted to discuss how my skills and experience align with the needs of your team. I look forward to the opportunity to speak further."
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
As mentioned earlier, a cover letter is an important tool as it can separate individuals from the competition during their job search. A cover letter is commonly submitted with a job application explaining the applicant's credentials and interest in the position.
There are many compelling reasons to learn why to write a cover letter and its importance when submitted along with the resume / CV. Some of the reasons are listed below.
With the cover letters, individuals will be able to:
A cover letter allows individuals to introduce themselves and their job candidacy to a company.
A cover letter allows individuals to explain how their skills and experience relate to the employer’s requirements.
A cover letter allows individuals to demonstrate their enthusiasm for the specific position and the organisation.
A cover letter allows individuals to provide employers with a sense of their personality and writing style.
A cover letter allows individuals the opportunity to display their personality while delivering key skills and knowledge.
Thus, a strong cover letter provides context for the skills and experiences present on the resume, rather than repeating them. It tells a story about the individual's career objectives and aspirations.
A cover letter has basic core elements and a flexible structure that may vary depending on the type of cover letter. The basic elements to include are:
Here is a quick format of the cover letter:
Add all the necessary contact information at the top of your cover letter.
Choose an appropriate way to greet your target audience.
Introduce yourself in the opening paragraph and explain your interest in the role.
Elaborate on why you’re the best candidate for the job and a good match for the company. Focus on “selling” your skills, achievements, and relevant professional experiences.
Summarise your key points and wrap it up professionally.
This cover letter is mainly delivered through email. Email cover letters are typically brief and incorporate more white space; it is advisable to put them in a more email-friendly format.
Subject: Introduction – Interest in [Position or Company Name]
Dear [Recipient's Name],
I hope this email finds you well. [Contact’s Name] suggested I contact you regarding my interest in opportunities within [Company Name/Industry]. I am currently exploring roles in [specific field or position] and believe my background in [specific expertise or field] would be a great fit for [Company Name or Team].
At [Current/Previous Company], I successfully [specific accomplishment]. I am particularly passionate about [specific interest or goal related to the company/role], and I admire [specific quality about the company or role].
If you are available, I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to connect and learn more about [specific opportunity, company culture, or industry insights]. I’ve attached my resume for reference and would welcome any advice or guidance you might offer.
Thank you for your time and assistance. I look forward to the possibility of speaking with you.
Warm regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Information]
[LinkedIn Profile or Portfolio Link]
A referral cover letter offers an opportunity to introduce yourself and also states the person who referred you to the position.
Referrals can be an important resource in your job search. If you are applying by way of referral, stating that upfront in the cover letter could give you an advantage by attracting the attention of the hiring manager.
Sender’s Name
Sender’s Adress
Contact Details
Email ID
Date________
Reciever’s Name
Reciever’s Adress
Contact Details
Subject Line: Application for Marketing Manager Position – Referred by John Smith
Dear [Recipient's Name],
I am writing to express my interest in the [position] at [Company Name], as recommended by [Ref person name Mr Joseph], who works in your [Department]. Joseph and I collaborated closely during our tenure at [Previous Company], where we successfully launched multiple cross-functional campaigns.
With over six years of experience in [previous job pofile], I specialise in creating data-driven campaigns that achieve measurable results. At [Previous Company], I led a team of five to increase customer acquisition rates by 35% over two quarters. John’s insights into your company’s innovative approach to marketing inspired me to reach out. I am confident my skills in campaign management and strategic planning align with your team’s goals.
I would be excited to bring my expertise to [Company Name] and help drive continued success. I welcome the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your team. Thank you for considering my application, and I hope to hear from you soon.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Information]
This cover letter is mainly for the people in your network who might assist with your job search. A networking cover letter is especially used to ask for help, and advice and to inquire about career positions available within their network.
Sender’s Name
Sender’s Adress
Contact Details
Email ID
Date________
Reciever’s Name
Reciever’s Adress
Contact DetailsSubject Line: Referral from [Name] with Designation[]
Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],
Referred from [Name and Designation] recommended I reach out regarding the [Job opening] at [Company Name]. [Referred employee name] and I worked together on a complex [project name] at [Previous Company], and he/she felt my expertise in Python and cloud-based systems would be a strong fit for your team.
At [Previous Company], I implemented a cloud migration project that reduced system downtime by 50% and improved overall performance efficiency. [Referred employee name] spoke highly of [Company Name]’s innovative culture and commitment to developing cutting-edge technologies. I am eager to bring my technical skills and collaborative mindset to your team.
I have attached my resume for your review. I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to discuss how my background aligns with the needs of [Company Name].
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Information]
This cover letter used with a resume submission or with a job application is called an application cover letter. This is the most common cover letter which provides details about relevant experience and education and allows individuals to delve into things that are not appropriate in a resume.
Sender’s Name
Sender’s Adress
Contact Details
Email ID
Date________
Reciever’s Name
Reciever’s Adress
Contact Details
Subject: Application for [Position Title] – [Your Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager's Name or Hiring Team],
I hope this message finds you well.
I am writing to express my interest in the [Position Title] role at [Company Name], as advertised on [Job Board/Company Website].
With my background in [your field/industry] and [number of years] years of experience in [specific skills or role], I am confident in my ability to contribute effectively to your team.
In my current role at [Your Current Company], I have successfully [specific achievement or responsibility], which has [impact/result].
I am particularly drawn to [specific aspect of the company or role that excites you], and I believe my skills in [specific skills] align perfectly with the goals of [Company Name].
I have attached my resume for your review. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my experience and skills can benefit [Company Name].
Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your team.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Information]
[LinkedIn Profile or Portfolio Link, if applicable]
One of the most challenging elements of the job application process is writing an effective cover letter. However, not all jobs require cover letters. So, how do you decide whether to submit one?
Submit a Cover Letter when:
Consider Submitting a Cover Letter when:
No Need to Submit a Cover Letter when:
Thus, you can craft an impactful cover letter and submit it only if required.
If you are applying to several similar opportunities, creating a draft cover letter in advance, specifically tailored toward the type of opportunity, can be a helpful way to save time in your actual application process.
Writing a cover letter does not have to be boring—even though it may seem like it is an assignment. Here are a few simple tips to consider when composing a cover letter:
Avoid using the generic cover letter and make sure to prepare a new cover letter for each position, which includes your strengths and skills, and also describe why you are the perfect candidate.
Simplify your letter.
Communicate clearly and concisely. Avoid the usage of complex words and sentences as this may certainly fail to convey your intentions with the company and the person reading the cover letter.
Never summarise your resume and be sure to quantify your achievements. Also, expand your professional experience in your cover letter by mentioning how you supported increased revenue. This can set you apart from candidates with vague personal details.
After you have written the letter, review/proofread to ensure there are no errors. A simple, focused cover letter without any typos or grammatical errors will get you noticed by potential employers.
A perfect resume can often be undermined by a poorly thought-out cover letter or one that is laden with mistakes. Whether you include the cover letter as per required submission guidelines, or you simply want to emphasise your interest in the job, make sure you avoid making these blunders.
By writing a compelling cover letter, you leave a positive impression in the job application process and also it bridges the gap between your resume and the specific job you are pursuing by showcasing your passion, personality and the unique value you bring to the organisation.
By tailoring an impactful cover letter to each role, you improve your chances of leaving a positive impression and securing an interview.
Stay tuned to our website @ JAIN College, one of the Best PU Colleges in Bangalore and explore more in detail about the Cover Letter, how to write a Cover letter and more.