Cover letters might seem like a daunting task when submitting your job applications. But don’t worry! Think of a cover letter as an opportunity to introduce yourself, show interest in the job position, and “prove” why you’re a good fit for the company.
What is a cover letter?
A cover letter is typically a one-page letter that some companies require you to send in with your resume when applying for a job. Think of it as your introduction to your potential employer– where you tell them why you’re interested and what makes you stand out.
Where do I start?
- Greet the hiring manager formally (if you know their name). For example, “Dear Ms. Doe.” If you’re not familiar with the person reading your resume, consider using a neutral greeting, such as “To whom it may concern.”
- Mention the official job title name. For example, “My name is Jane, and I am applying for the position of Marketing Intern II.”
- Express your interest, and explain why you’re interested in the position. For example, “I’m excited to apply for the Intern position at XYZ Company, because I admire XYZ’s mission to XYZ.”
How do I format it?
- Keep your cover letter to one page or just under (3 paragraphs or so).
- Some softwares have “letter” templates you may want to utilize to stay organized. These tend to include specific areas for your contact information which is very important in case the employer needs to contact you.
- Spacing: Make sure to indent each paragraph, and that there is enough space between each paragraph so your letter is easy to read.
- Structure: Start with an intro paragraph, then share your relevant skills and experiences, and finish with a closing paragraph.
How do I mention my skills and experience?
In your cover letter, you should only mention relevant experience to the job position. The employer will already have your resume, so no need to summarize everything on it. Relevant experience for a social media position might include, “I’ve spent two years as a social media manager, where I learned to create engaging content.” Specific skills might include, “I have proficiency in Adobe Photoshop and Canva.”
How do I end it?
Typically, you should thank whoever the letter is addressed to, and mention that you’re looking forward to hearing from them in the near future. For example, “Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from your team!”
Remember to tailor your cover letters to each job you apply to. Again, they already have your resume, so highlight only relevant skills and experience, and use it as an opportunity to stand out from other applicants!
Good luck!
