So, you’ve found an ad for a job that catches your interest and matches what you’d like to have. Well, the only thing left for you to do now is send in your application so you’ll be considered as a candidate to fill in the job vacancy being advertised. But before send your application, ensure that you attach a cover letter to your resume.
The Importance of the Cover Letter
One common mistake that many job seekers make is that they simply send in their resume without a cover letter. Although creating a cover letter may seem like extra work, it can go a long way toward helping you secure the job that you want. At best, it can help you stand out from the rest of the job applications. It also serves as a polite way to let the hiring manager know that you want to be part of their company.
Cover Letter Writing Tips
Take note that just because you have a cover letter, it doesn’t mean that you are automatically considered for employment. If your cover letter isn’t written well, it can do more harm than good. At worst, it can make you look uninventive, even if you have what it takes to succeed.
Aside from using good grammar, here are other important tips you should remember when writing a cover letter.
- Your cover letter is not your resume in paragraph form. When writing a cover letter, don’t make the common mistake of repeating what’s in your resume. Take note that the letter will be stapled or attached to the same email as your actual resume. Sending the hiring manager basically the same information is just redundant and counter-productive.
What you should do instead is use your cover letter to show your personality, curiosity, and interest in the job placement. For instance, you can throw in some random information you know about the field you want to work for. When applying for a job in the fashion industry, consider talking about how fashion has changed in the last decades. This may give the impression that you have the skills and expertise and genuinely interested with the job
- Keep it short. While it’s good to show how passionate you are about the job you want, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to create a five-page essay about it. As the saying goes, “Less is more,” so keep your cover letter short. Avoid lengthy exposition. Get straight to the point instead.
- Start strong. Don’t start your cover letter with the generic, “My name is John Smith and I’m applying for the position as ABC.” The hiring manager or HR people already know this, so there’s no need for you to say it again. Start your letter with something strong. Otherwise, you’ll sound inexperienced.
- Close with a bang. Finish off your cover letter by quickly explaining what you can bring to the table. State in a few words how your experience or skills will help you fulfill the requirements of the job.
A cover letter will help get your foot in the door. It adds life to your resume package and gives an introduction to who you are. If you would like more tips on writing a cover letter please reach out to Jamie Danielle and our staffing experts, we are here to help you succeed. Email: staffing@jdanielle.com
