Kaitlyn
How do you write a good cover letter?
There are millions of formats online for a cover letter. Some are longer and more specific. Others are short and don't provide much information (i.e., bragging points) about the writer. Some are double-spaced and others are single-spaced. Some are twelve-point and others are ten-point. Does the format even matter as long as the content is good? #coverletter #jobhunt
3 answers
Kim Igleheart
Kim’s Answer
Kaitlyn,
A cover letter normally has the format of a standard business letter: It contains your return address, The company's return address, the date, a salutation (hopefully to a person, but I often go with "Dear Hiring Manager") a body, and a signature. Normal margins. I like to use paragraphs that are single-spaced, but double-space between paragraphs. Yes, it should have eye-appeal, especially coming from an artist!!
The body? I like three paragraphs. Oversimplified, the first one simply states what you are applying for and how you found out about it. The third one asks for the interview ("I look forward to meeting with you . . . )
Second paragraph? Here's where all the work is. You want to demonstrate that you are the perfect candidate for the position. do NOT regurgitate your resume. Show that you know what the company is all about, and, how you will fit in to it. Do NOT use carbon copy cover letters for every job you apply to. If you can show how experience gained in two or more jobs blend to be the perfect skillset for the position, so much the better.
It is hard work, but worth it - I've received positive feedback on my cover letters in the course of the interviews!
Best of luck!
Kim
Simeon Snow
Simeon’s Answer
Michael Bracey
Michael’s Answer
Hi Kaitlyn,
Kim did a fantastic job outlining the format of the cover letter. Being in the Recruitment industry, I can provide a bit of context and content. Your cover letter should be about you, your accomplishments, and why you are motivated to join this company. Be specific with your accomplishments. List, descriptively, how they made a positive impact on your prior organization and how it led to your personal success. Tailor your verbiage as to why your experience and accomplishments would translate well to the job you are applying for, and again, be specific as to why. Describe why you are intrigued by the company and by the role itself. Ultimately what the employer wants to see if that you have taken this seriously, understand what the role you are applying for is, and that you are showing knowledge and exuberance to want to join the team.
Thanks!
Mike