How To Write A Compelling Cover Letter: Cover Letter Best Practices

A cover letter is your first opportunity to make a lasting impression on potential employers, and when done right, it can significantly boost your chances of landing an interview. Many job seekers underestimate the power of a compelling cover letter, treating it as an afterthought or relying on generic templates. However, a well-crafted cover letter can help set you apart from the competition by highlighting your qualifications, showcasing your enthusiasm for the role, and providing a glimpse of your personality. Here are the best practices to follow when writing a cover letter that gets results.

1. Personalize Your Cover Letter for Each Job

One of the most important aspects of writing a compelling cover letter is personalization. Sending the same generic cover letter to every job application not only looks lazy but can also make you seem less interested in the role. Instead, tailor your cover letter to the specific job and company.

Start by reading the job description thoroughly, noting key qualifications and skills that are required. Then, weave these into your cover letter to demonstrate that you’re not only qualified but also a good fit for the company’s culture and goals. Mention the company’s name and explain why you want to work there. Doing this shows the employer that you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in the position.

2. Use a Strong, Attention-Grabbing Opening

Your opening paragraph is crucial because it sets the tone for the rest of the letter. A dull or generic opening can cause the reader to lose interest quickly, but a strong introduction can capture their attention and encourage them to keep reading.

Avoid starting with the typical “I am writing to apply for the [job title] position at [company name].” Instead, use a more dynamic and engaging approach. For example, you could lead with your most impressive accomplishment: “As a marketing professional with over five years of experience driving successful campaigns, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to [company name]’s growth in the role of Marketing Manager.” This immediately highlights your experience while conveying enthusiasm for the job.

3. Highlight Your Key Achievements

The main purpose of your cover letter is to convince the employer that you’re the right fit for the job. To do this, focus on your key achievements that are relevant to the role. Instead of simply repeating your resume, provide specific examples that illustrate how your skills and experiences align with the job requirements.

For instance, if you’re applying for a sales role, you could write, “In my previous role at [company], I exceeded my sales targets by 30% in my first year, leading to a 20% increase in overall company revenue.” Quantifying your achievements gives the hiring manager a clear understanding of your impact and demonstrates your value.

4. Showcase Your Personality

While your resume is a place for listing qualifications, your cover letter allows you to showcase your personality. Employers want to hire someone who not only has the right skills but also fits in with their company culture. Your cover letter provides a chance to convey your enthusiasm, work ethic, and communication style.

That said, it’s important to strike a balance between professionalism and personality. Avoid overly formal or robotic language, but also steer clear of being too casual. You want to come across as friendly and approachable while maintaining a tone of professionalism. Injecting some personality into your cover letter can make it more engaging and memorable for the hiring manager.

5. Be Concise and to the Point

While it’s essential to include enough information to convey your qualifications and enthusiasm, you don’t want your cover letter to be overly long. A cover letter should ideally be no longer than one page. Keep your paragraphs short and focused, ensuring each one adds value.

Use clear and straightforward language, avoiding unnecessary jargon or overly complex sentences. The goal is to make your cover letter easy to read and digest. Focus on the most important points that make you a strong candidate for the role.

6. Address the Hiring Manager by Name

If possible, always address the cover letter to a specific person. Using “Dear Hiring Manager” or “To Whom It May Concern” can make your letter feel impersonal. Research the company’s website or LinkedIn to find the name of the hiring manager or the person responsible for recruitment. This small effort shows that you’ve taken the time to learn about the company and can leave a positive impression.

If you’re unable to find the name, it’s still better to use “Dear Hiring Manager” rather than a completely generic greeting like “To Whom It May Concern.”

7. End with a Strong Call to Action

The closing paragraph of your cover letter should reinforce your enthusiasm for the role and encourage the employer to take action. Instead of passively saying, “I hope to hear from you soon,” use a more proactive closing statement. For example, “I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experiences align with [company name]’s needs and contribute to its continued success. Thank you for your time and consideration.”

Ending on a strong note leaves a lasting impression and increases the likelihood of being invited for an interview.

8. Proofread and Edit Thoroughly

One of the fastest ways to lose credibility with a potential employer is submitting a cover letter filled with typos or grammatical errors. Before sending your cover letter, make sure to proofread it carefully. Consider asking a friend or colleague to review it as well to catch any mistakes you might have missed.

A well-written, error-free cover letter demonstrates your attention to detail and professionalism.

Conclusion

Writing a compelling cover letter requires time, effort, and attention to detail, but it can make all the difference in your job search. By personalizing your letter, using a strong opening, highlighting your key achievements, and showcasing your personality, you can craft a cover letter that stands out. Remember to keep it concise, address the hiring manager by name, and end with a strong call to action. With these best practices, you’ll be well on your way to creating a cover letter that gets noticed and helps you land your dream job.