Learn how to write a cover letter

Many applicants are not able to explain why they are interested in a particular company or position. And yet, that’s precisely what the recruiters want to know. Win points and use this opportunity to stand out.

How should you proceed? Here are some of the things you can do to prepare:

• Read the company’s LinkedIn page and its employees’ profiles.
• Explore the company’s website.
• The IbisWorld database gives you access to a number of company and industry reports with statistics, market analyses, performance reports and forecasts.
• Use your memory. Make use of information you learned through networking events and informational conversations with professionals.
   

A cover letter has three parts, each with a specific purpose. Follow our recommendations and use the examples at the bottom of the page.

THE HOOK

This is where you say why you're interested in the company (or the service or department).

You need to start by grabbing the recruiter’s attention! To avoid writing boring, ready-made sentences:

• Think about what you know about the company. Find something that might justify your interest in the employer.
• If possible, think of a story or an anecdote related to the position or the company.

THE BODY

This is where you explain why you are the right person for the job by linking the employer’s expectations to what you have to offer.

• Concentrate on the key words you have picked out.
• Identify which ones describe your skills in relation to the main duties of the job.
• For each skill, try to find a fact, proof, or better yet, an achievement that will convince the employer.

CONCLUSION

State your desire to meet the recruiter.

• Clearly state that you are available and would like to meet in person.
• Use a standard closing. Refer to one of the model letters.

• Set aside enough time to write. The first letters you write will require more effort, but you will get faster with more practice.
• Tell the employer what you would bring to the job and how you can meet their expectations. Don’t talk about your needs.
• Try not to write a generic letter. The recruiter expects you to talk to them about the job offer, the stated expectations and why you want this particular job.
• Explain all the reasons why you're right for the job, or you won't manage to convince the recruiter. Pay special attention to transferable skills.
  Example: “I demonstrated my innovative mindset through my substantial contribution to growing profits by developing new tax and financial strategies.”
• Avoid repeating what already appears on your CV. Your cover letter and CV are supposed to be complementary, not redundant. Go back to talking about your strengths—explain them and link them back to the job requirements.
• Be specific. At the very beginning, state what you’re applying for.
  Re: Application for the position of Data Manager – YP12306.
• Make sure you follow the instructions of the employer: some require the application to be addressed to a specific person, while others require you to specify certain details (your availability, for example).
• Your letter should be neither too long nor too short. The current practice is to write 3 to 5 paragraphs on one page.
• Try not to write several sentences in a row that start with the same word. “I am interested in your company.” “I have a bachelor’s in business administration.” “I have a background in project management.”
• Make sure the layout of your letter looks sharp. Your letter reveals what type of employee you will be. Show that you are professional. Proof for typos and language issues, such as spelling, syntax and grammar mistakes. Reread your letter and have someone else read it for you.