How to Write a Cover Letter
Photo Credit: @rodnae.prod
It took you forever to finish formatting your resume. It took you just as long to find the perfect job listing. You are excited to apply, when you see it…
The dreaded ask for the cover letter.
Job hunting isn’t fun. Interviewing isn’t easy. And cover letters are kind of awkward.
Or so I’ve been told. I actually love writing cover letters! While they can be cumbersome (if you’re the hit-submit-and-hope-the-universe-and-recruiter-align type), I see it as another chance, or maybe the one chance, you get to show off your ✨personality✨ beyond your resume.
It’s an opportunity for you to (hopefully) captivate your potential employer with your intentions, goals, and vision — it’s your ticket to show them why you stand out and why you deserve an in.
Who are you? Why do you do what you do? What inspires you? Why do they want you on your team?
If you can answer these questions, you’re one step closer to knocking out your cover letter. If the thought of it is making you drag your feet, here’s a simple structure you can follow:
Greeting
Your salutation will depend on your industry. Can you get away with something amicable and casual if the position you’re applying for is more creative? Is this role more serious and structured? Be professional, but be willing to take risks — hook your hiring manager or recruiter early. (And whenever possible, use their name!) For added clarity, clearly state what position you are applying for as you introduce yourself.
"Hello [Hiring Manager/Recruiting Rep] and [Company Name] team,"
My name is [Name], and as someone who admires [Company Name]'s efforts and mission, I was excited to see an opening for your [Job Title] position."
Opening Paragraph
This is where you share a bit more about yourself. Describe your current role or most notable role in a nutshell, as well as two big achievements or milestones you’ve helped your team hit. Why should they want to talk to you? Also, if it is relevant, share about what your current company does or what your role entails, and express how that directly ties to the job you are interested in.
“I am currently the [Current Role] of [Current Company], where I helped my team [Insert Details About Your Achievements]. In addition to that, I also [Add More Details]. This positively impacted my team and my company by [Share the Impact of Output]. I see [Company Name] has a similar goals. In my last role, my duties in [Add More Details] could be a good foundation for those goals.
Middle Paragraphs
The length of your cover letter will depend on the request of the employer. (Usually this is one page!) Share why you are the right candidate for the company. Dive deep into what “makes you tick” as an individual. This is also where you can spell out why you feel this position would be a fit for you. Try to emphasize a sense of longevity so that the hiring staff can see you’re committed for the long-haul! (If that is your goal…which, hopefully, it should be! If not…time to sell it? Haha!) You can also share why you are seeking a new job so that your potential employer can more fully understand your goals.
“[Company Name] seems to be a place of [Insert Descriptor] — that resonates with me, as I am passionate about [Insert Goals]. That is why I am currently seeking a new growth opportunity. I know that [Company Name] is moving toward [Insert Goals]. I would love to contribute to this mission by [Sharing Specific Methods and Plans].“
Closing Paragraph
End with a cheerful, eager, and positive outlook. Reinforce your goals, how to contact you and that you are looking forward to possibly continue this conversation. If you have a previous project you think would interest your employer, offer to walk them through it, should you have a future opportunity to meet with them.
“I would love the opportunity to use my skills and knowledge in [Insert Descriptor] to help [Company Name] grow! It would be an honor to grow with [Company Name], as well. I am committed to improving in [Insert Goals Here], and I feel as through [Company Name] would be the dream place to do it! Looking forward to possibly meeting you and for the opportunity to discuss [Insert Descriptor].
[Sign Off],
[Name]
One other reminder: Personalize your cover letter whenever you can! Sprinkle in details unique to you and don’t be shy about adding punches of personality. It’s not “unprofessional” — it’s authentic. It allows the hiring staff to get a bit more connected with who you are, even without meeting you. (Plus, it’ll probably give their glazed-over eyes a break after reading the same carbon copy of cover letters for the 30th time.)
Want more tips? Visit the Career Toolbox for a cover letter template and other resources!