A cover letter expresses your enthusiasm and capability to an audience of one. Here's a quick primer on how to write a compelling cover letter:
Customization
Address the Reader Personally
Don't settle for generic greetings - put in the extra effort to uncover the hiring manager's name. Tools like LinkedIn or a quick outreach to current employees can help you find this type of information if you don't already know it. Personalizing your cover letter demonstrates genuine interest and leaves a memorable impression.
Tailor to the Company and Role
Show you understand the company by tailoring your letter specifically to them. Research their values and goals, then connect your skills and experience to what they say they need most. A well-tailored cover letter should feel like it's written just for this company and this application.
Storytelling
Share Your Story
Everyone loves a good story. Use your cover letter to bring your resume to life with a narrative about your proudest achievements or unique experiences. This helps transform you from a name on paper into a compelling candidate they will want to get in touch with.
Supplementing Your Resume
Showcase Relevant Experiences
Your cover letter isn't just a repeat of your resume; it's your chance to elaborate and fill in any gaps in your story. Highlight experiences that align closely with the job description and share specific examples of how your skills, like expertise in Laravel or the TALL stack, connect with the company's goals and the description of the position.
Language and Tone
Reflect the Job Description
Using language and vocabulary right out of the job description in your cover letter is a great way to make sure that you're speaking the same language (literally) as the person who's hopefully reading your cover letter. This not only makes your cover letter resonate with the reader but can also help it sail past automated HR screening systems.
Structure and Presentation
Begin with a Bang
First impressions matter. Open your cover letter with a hook that grabs attention and makes the reader want to keep reading. Avoid clichés and focus on what makes you stand out.
Keep It Clear and Readable
Clarity is key. Stick to a single page with clean formatting and a professional but personal tone. Choose standard fonts and margins, and avoid overly complicated sentences.
Proofread Thoroughly
Errors can ruin even the strongest letter. Double-check for typos and grammatical issues, and consider reading your letter aloud or using a tool like Grammarly to ensure it's polished to perfection.
Wrapping Up
End with a Call to Action
Close with purpose. Give the person who's reading your cover letter a suggested next action, such as scheduling an interview or connecting for a follow-up conversation. A clear call to action leaves no room for ambiguity about your interest.
By following these guidelines, your cover letter will effectively communicate your strengths and enthusiasm, making a memorable impression on potential employers.