What is a Cover Letter? How Do You Write One?

It’s a dog-eat-dog world out there –at least, it feels that way when you’re job hunting. While platitudes like, “Hang in there,” “Keep on trying,” or “The right one is just around the corner” are viable suggestions, you’ve probably heard them before.

So, instead, we want to give you an edge—something to help your resume stand out in the sea of applications inundating the powers that be. Did you know that 56% of employers look for a cover letter, even when it isn’t required on the application? Hiring managers attest that cover letters invite them to look closer at an applicant’s resume.

What is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter, formatted as a business letter, differentiates you from other applicants. It lets you show why you’re a good fit for the job.

It’s like a memo or a mini biography. Like the introduction MCs give when bringing the main speaker on stage, a cover letter introduces you to the reader.

The cover letter differs from a resume. While a resume is a factual, bulleted reiteration of your work history, education, credentials, skills, and strengths, a cover letter is far more personal and creates a story. It’s the piece that ties you, your resume, and the job description neatly together.

Key Components of a Cover Letter

• The Header.
• The Greeting.
• The Body.
• The Closing.

The Header

The header is where all the contact info lives. Include the following:

• Name.
• Address.
• Phone number.
• Email address.
• Applicable or relevant social media profiles (such as LinkedIn).

In the second part of the header, include the employer’s contact details:

• Name of the employer or hiring manager.
• Their title.
• Company name.
• Company address.

If you don’t know the name of the hiring manager or the employer, use their title. However, do your research (LinkedIn is a great tool!), and do your best to learn the name of the person reviewing your application.

The Greeting

If you know the hiring manager or employer’s name, address the letter to him personally. If you don’t know his name, address him by his title: “Dear Hiring Manager.” Be personal but professional! FYI, “To Whom It May Concern” is outdated.

The Body

The body of a cover letter typically consists of two to four paragraphs. The first paragraph should include information about the position for which you are applying. Reference the title, explain how you heard about the job, and briefly state why you “fit the bill” for the desired role. Grab the reader’s attention right away.

Use the middle paragraph(s) to elaborate on what you’ll bring to the position and why you want the role. Share examples and past experiences that qualify you for the position. Be specific. Be brief. And (again), be personal! However, remember that the hiring manager wants only examples relevant to the job description. Share why the role excites you and your alignment with the position and the company.

The Closing

In your closing paragraph, thank the reader for reviewing your application and resume. Inspire a response by hinting at your anticipation of the next steps in the hiring process.

Sign off with a professional pleasantry and leave a space for you to include a handwritten signature.

If you need some ideas to get started, here’s a sample of a cover letter template from The Balance.

Are you looking for new ways to grow and ready to take the next step in your career? Career Concepts has been helping candidates grow and take that next step for more than 50 years! Contact us today, and let’s get started!