6 Steps To Creating The Perfect Cover Letter

It’s always important to make a good first impression. And, most often, when you are looking to secure a new job opportunity, your cover letter to your resume represents your first impression. It’s a good idea to remember that your hiring manager is looking to find out more about you, not just what you’re capable of doing on the job. So creating a cover letter that is as personable as it is professional is a wise choice.

Of course, writing a cover letter can be considered a tough task if you haven’t done one in a while. This is especially true for those who have experienced long layoffs from work due to illnesses or injuries. For more information about Independence Incorporated’s Resume Preparation services that assist with both resume development and appropriate cover letter creation, please don’t hesitate to call us at 204-478-6644 or email info@indep.ca.

Here are six steps to creating the perfect cover letter:

1. Address the hiring manager directly. Showing that you’ve done your research about the company you are applying to demonstrates your attention to detail and your dedication to securing the job. Be sure to find out the hiring manager’s name in order to properly address that person in your letter. “If this person’s name isn’t in the job listing, take the extra effort to call or email the company and find out,” suggests Vivian Giang on BusinessInsider.com.

2. Get to the point. Telling your life story isn’t necessary. Your best bet is covering all of the necessary details that relate to the reason you are applying for the job. On Monster.com, Caroline M.L. Potter recommends that you also include where you saw the ad for the position and who recommended you to apply for it. Keep in mind that recruiters have many cover letters to read. Cutting to the chase will help you to gain favour.

3. Don’t go overboard. Remember that the purpose of your cover letter is to pinpoint reasons why you should be considered for the job. It is your personal request for consideration. So you don’t need to go over the details that are already listed on your resume. “It’s a professional document, so don’t go too over-the-top,” reminds Giang, “Yes, trying to figure out ways to be creative may be difficult, but don’t go overboard out of desperation.”

4. Be complimentary. Naturally, your cover letter should endear its reader to you. But you’ll also want to include reasons why you’re interested in the company you’re applying to work for. “Compliment the organization on what they have done right and what you admire about them,” advises Potter. That way, you will prove that you’ve taken the time to look into and get to know the company.

5. Stick to the “one page rule”. You don’t need to make your cover letter any longer than one page. To reiterate, its intent is not to tell your life story. Sticking to the important facts and highlighting your strengths are what is necessary. “Your cover letter is an introduction to yourself,” says Giang, “It’s supposed to show that you have strong communication skills. Be brief and concise.”

6. Include a call to action. Of course, you can assume that your hiring manager wants to meet you in person. But, it’s best that you state your intention of doing so. Potter advises that you express your enthusiasm for the job position and the interview. Giang agrees that you should be proactive. “Tell the reader what you’re planning on doing next — for example, calling in a week or two to follow up,” she advises.

Good luck!