Writing a great cover letter

Tidying up your cover letter is essential to make it more effective and professional. A well-crafted cover letter can significantly improve your chances of getting noticed by potential employers. Your cover letter is often the very first thing that potential employers will see before they even open your CV. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to tidy up your cover letter:

1. Start with a clean format:
   • Use a professional font (e.g., Arial, Times New Roman) and standard font size (11 or 12 points).
   • Set one-inch margins on all sides.
   • Align the text to the left and use single spacing between lines.
2. Use a professional header:
   • At the top of your cover letter, include your name, address, phone number, and email address.
   • Include the current date and the recipient’s name, title, company, and address if available. If you don’t have this information, address the letter to a generic recipient (e.g., “Dear Hiring Manager”).
3. Write a concise and engaging opening paragraph:
   • Start with a strong and engaging opening sentence that grabs the reader’s attention.
   • Mention the specific job you’re applying for and how you learned about it.
   • Express your enthusiasm for the position and the company.
4. Craft a compelling body:
   • Focus on the most relevant qualifications and experiences that match the job description.
   • Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and achievements. Provide quantifiable results whenever possible.
   • Highlight your unique value and why you are an ideal candidate for the position.
   • Keep the body of your cover letter concise, typically not exceeding three to four paragraphs.
5. Address potential concerns:
   • If you have employment gaps or other issues in your work history, briefly address them in a positive and proactive manner.
   • Explain how any challenges you’ve faced have made you a stronger candidate.
6. Show cultural fit:
   • Mention your understanding of the company’s culture, values, and mission.
   • Explain how your values align with the company’s, showcasing your potential as a cultural fit.
7. Express enthusiasm and interest:
   • Reiterate your enthusiasm for the position and your desire to contribute to the company’s success.
   • Convey your eagerness to interview and discuss your qualifications in more detail.
8. Request action:
   • Close your cover letter with a call to action, such as requesting an interview.
   • Thank the reader for considering your application.
9. Proofread and edit:
   • Carefully proofread your cover letter for grammatical errors, typos, and spelling mistakes.
   • Check for consistency in formatting and style throughout the document.
   • Consider asking a trusted friend or mentor to review and provide feedback.
10. Tailor your cover letter for each application:
    • Customize your cover letter for each job you apply to by highlighting relevant skills and experiences.
    • Address specific job requirements and mention why you’re a perfect fit for that role.
11. Keep it concise:
    • Your cover letter should typically not exceed one page. Be concise and to the point.
12. Save it as a PDF:
    • Save your cover letter as a PDF file to ensure formatting remains intact when sending it electronically.

By following these steps, you can tidy up your cover letter and make it more appealing to potential employers, increasing your chances of securing interviews and job offers.

About Us