A cover letter is more than a formality—it’s your chance to make a memorable first impression on a potential employer. When done right, it can set you apart from other candidates and open the door to an interview. But what makes a great cover letter? Follow these best practices to create one that shines.
Best Practices for Writing a Cover Letter
- Match Your Formatting with Your Resume
Consistency is key! Use the same font, size, and style as your resume. This creates a polished, professional look and makes your application stand out. - Make It Personal
Whenever possible, address your letter to a specific person. Skip “To Whom It May Concern” and use the hiring manager’s name. If you can’t find it online, call the company to ask—it shows initiative. - Start Fresh Every Time
Don’t just copy and paste your resume into your cover letter. A great cover letter is personalized and adds value by explaining your unique fit for the role and company. - Hook Them with Your First Paragraph
Your opening paragraph is your chance to grab attention. Start with enthusiasm and mention why you’re excited about the job. A strong first sentence can make the reader want to keep going.
Example: “I’m thrilled to apply for the Sales Associate position at ABC Store. As a long-time admirer of your customer-first approach, I’m eager to bring my communication skills to your team.” - Show You’ve Done Your Homework
Employers want to know you’re genuinely interested. Mention something specific about the company that inspires you, like their mission, culture, or recent achievements. - Focus on Your Strengths
Highlight skills or experiences that show you’re a perfect fit for the role. Use examples to back up your claims, but avoid rehashing your resume.
Example: “In my previous role, I boosted customer satisfaction scores by 25% through personalized service and quick problem-solving.” - Keep It Relevant
Think about what matters most to the employer. Tailor your cover letter to their needs, and avoid including unrelated details or repeating your resume word-for-word. - Be Positive and Enthusiastic
Show your excitement about the opportunity! A positive tone can leave a lasting impression. - End with Confidence
Wrap up your letter by requesting an interview. Be polite but clear about your intentions, and mention if you plan to follow up.
Example: “I’d love the chance to discuss how my skills align with your team’s needs. I will follow up next week to check on the status of my application.” - Keep It Short and Sweet
Stick to one page. A concise, focused letter is more likely to hold the reader’s attention. - Do an “I” Check
Using “I” too much can make your letter feel self-centered. Review your letter and balance sentences about yourself with those about the employer and role. - Proofread (Again and Again!)
Errors can cost you the job. Check your letter multiple times, read it out loud, and ask someone else to review it before sending.
Final Thoughts
A great cover letter is tailored, engaging, and professional. It shows the employer that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely excited about the role. By following these best practices, you can create a cover letter that not only grabs attention but also moves your application to the top of the pile.
Ready to write your best cover letter yet? Start today, and let your enthusiasm and skills shine!
