What is a Cover Letter?
A cover letter typically accompanies your resume when you are applying for a specific job position. It demonstrates to the employer why you are a great candidate for that particular position or the company. It should be formatted with a business heading and should be left-aligned. A cover letter is critical since it can set you apart from many others who are applying for the same position. If written well, it can clearly and concisely reveal who you are and why you may be the best hire for the company.
Following image illustrates the steps of writing a Cover Letter
Following is the format/examples of each clause:
Opening
Dear Sir or Madam
Dear Mr. King Brown,
Reason for writing
I want to apply for the position…
I am writing to know whether there are any openings
Introducing Yourself
I am currently studying …
I am currently working as a …
At present, I am working for XXX where I am responsible for …
I have been working in my current position for the past XX year.
Talking about your education & experience
I graduated from ABC University with a degree/master’s degree…
As you can see from my CV, I have worked as … and gained experience in…
Why you are the best for this position
I consider myself to be suitable for this role as I have a great deal of experience…
I feel I would be the ideal candidate based on the fact that I …
Closing comments
Thank you for giving your precious time to consider my application.
If you wish to contact me, you can do so on +xxxxxxxx …
If you need further information then please do not hesitate to contact me at xxxxxxx…
Please find CV attached (in email) / eclosed (in letters).
Signing off
I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours sincerely, (if you know the name of the person you are writing to ‘Dear Mr. O Brown)
Yours faithfully, (when you are writing as ‘Dear Sir or Madam’ in the Opening)
Some Good Tips
Here are some tips for writing a good cover letter:
- Keep it to one page.
- Address the letter to the correct person.
- Mention the correct job and organization.
- Explain your interest in the organization’s mission.
- Double-check spelling and grammar.
- Do not send generic information.
- Include all the information requested in the job posting.
- Use the letter to explain items not appropriate for the resume.
- Use a business format.
What is the role of a cover letter?
It demonstrates to the employer why you are a great candidate for that particular position or the company.
Why is cover letter important?
A cover letter is critical since it can set you apart from many others who are applying for the same position. If written well, it can clearly and concisely reveal who you are and why you may be the best hire for the company.
How should a person sign off in a cover letter?
A person can sign off as follows: - I look forward to hearing from you. - Yours sincerely, (if you know the name of the person you are writing to ‘Dear Mr. O Brown) - Yours faithfully, (when you are writing as ‘Dear Sir or Madam’ in the Opening)
What are some tips to be followed in a cover letter?
Here are some tips for writing a good cover letter: - Keep it to one page. - Address the letter to the correct person. - Mention the correct job and organization. - Explain your interest in the organization’s mission. - Double-check spelling and grammar. - Do not send generic cover letters. - Include all the information requested in the job posting. - Use the cover letter to explain items not appropriate for the resume. - Use a business format for the cover letter.
