Did you know that over 95% of hiring managers consider a cover letter “important” when determining which applicants to interview for their open role? More specifically, almost 50% of hiring managers agree that a strong cover letter can convince them to interview an otherwise weak candidate. Determining what information serves value can be challenging so we have outlined what specifically to include (and what to leave out!).

A cover letter is a one-page document submitted alongside your resume that outlines the applicant’s credentials and interest in the open position. It traditionally includes three to four short paragraphs and allows the recruiter/hiring manager insight into your background/skillset. It should be specific to the position and company for which you are applying so it will need to be tailored accordingly.

There are four main types:

  1. Application Cover Letter (most common)
  2. Referral Cover Letter (Who referred you to this open position?)
  3. Letter of Interest (Expressing interest in working for this specific company)
  4. Value Proposition Letter (What value could you add to the company that other candidates cannot?)

 

Below you will find an outline of what to include:

{Name}

{Address}

{Phone Number}

 

{Date}

 

{Contact person’s name (i.e., recruiter, hiring manager, etc.)}

{Contact person’s title}

 

{Salutation (i.e., ‘Dear Mr./Ms.’, ‘To Whom It May Concern)}

 

{Paragraph}

To what specific role you are referring? How did you hear about it? Express interest.

 

{Paragraph}

Summary of your background/skillset. Include hard skills which make you technically qualified.

 

{Paragraph}

Emphasize soft skills that set you apart from other candidates. Why would you be a good fit for the open role as well as the company?

 

{Express gratitude for time and consideration to (enter position title here)} {Express your desire to discuss the position further in an interview} {Preferred method of contact and availability}

 

{Closing Salutation}

{Signature}

 

When composing your cover letter, it’s also imperative to avoid the following:

  • Discussing why you are looking for a new position
  • Not researching the company and position
  • Failing to highlight your strongest or most relevant skills
  • Talking about salary expectations
  • Repeating information from your resume
  • Not proofreading

 

A strong cover letter could be what sets you apart from your competition when applying for a job. What first impression do you want to make on your potential employer?

For additional assistance in composing a professional and eye-catching cover letter, call us at (518) 275-4816 or email jobs@walrathrecruiting.com.

 

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