A cover letter is a way of introducing yourself to a potential employer grabbing their interest and compelling them to read your resume.
Your cover letter is likely to be the first impression a potential employer has of you. Like any introduction it only takes a little extra effort to make yours stand out. So what makes a great cover letter?
Let’s take a closer look at the cover letter followed by a guide on how to write one.
Unpacking the cover letter.
A cover letter is a short letter that introduces you and your resume and is specifically written for a position you’re applying to.
In person, you would introduce yourself first before telling your story, a cover letter says who you are and tells the reader you can do the job and points to where you built the skills and achieved success, igniting interest in your resume.
Your cover letter compliments your resume and should never summarise or repeat it. It should easily fit on one page and consist of no more than 3 or 4 paragraphs.
The first paragraph tells the reader why you are writing and where you found out about the role as well as a sharp introduction. It should be authentic, enthusiastic and quick to establish your qualification for doing the role.
Example; I was excited to read that “example banks” are expanding their business in Thailand. As a Thai national with 10 successful years in banking sales here in Singapore, I know how well your products will be received in the Thai market. Equally you may wish to highlight a mutual connection (one that you know will be respected by the reader) or begin with a major relevant accomplishment.
In the second paragraph you can tell the reader why you are a perfect fit for the role given your history with specific examples to illustrate your point.
The third or closing paragraph should be used to thank the reader for their consideration and to request an opportunity to meet to discuss the position further. Let the reader know the best methods to contact you or if you wish, close by saying you’ll contact the reader within a few days to arrange a time to discuss the role and your application further.
Our tips for improving your cover letter
Use clear, concise real language as though you were talking. Avoid long sentences and flowery wording.
Always write a new cover letter for every new role you apply to. Every role will be different and you want to show how your skills fit the demands of the job.
Where possible, address the letter to the hiring manager by name.
Always spell check.
Writing a cover letter might feel unnecessary in the era of online advertisements and it's for that reason that we suggest they're a great and important complement to your resume. If you've put in the effort to write a great cover letter perhaps using some of the tips above you've shown the reader that you have read their advertisement and you're interested in their role and at their company.
Ready to put these learnings into actions. Search our current vacancies or get in touch with a consultant at Symmetry.
