When applying for a new job we always are faced with the nagging question, what should I include in a cover letter.
Although not always necessary with a job application, including a cover letter shows you’re a serious applicant.
It tells potential employers that you are willing to go above and beyond the average applicant.
It is a way to stand out from other candidates and provide additional useful information.
This information can make the employer’s job of hiring easier and less time consuming.
The cover letter helps to illustrate to your future employer how your specific skills and experience can be an asset to the company.
What is a cover letter?
A cover letter can also be known as an application letter.
This letter usually includes three to four paragraphs explaining your interest in a job and why you are a good fit for the company.
A cover letter is usually sent along with your resume when applying for a job.
The goal of the cover letter is to give more detail then a resume on how your skills and experience will be beneficial to the position.
A well written cover letter should aim to impress your potential employer and set you apart from other applicants.
It should include some research about the company and position.
What is the cover letter format for resume?
The cover letter format for a resume or job application usually contains six sections.
A header with the date and contact information.
Then the greeting, opening paragraph, middle paragraphs, closing paragraph, and letter ending and signature.
Cover letter format
- Header with date and contact information
- Greeting or salutation
- Opening paragraph
- Middle paragraph(s)
- Closing paragraph
- Letter ending and signature
What Should I Include In A Cover Letter?
Section 1 – Header
Your header should contain:
- Your name
- City and ZIP code
- Phone number
- Email address
- Date
- Name of recipient
- Title of recipient
- Company name
- Company address
Section 2 – Your Greeting
If possible try to include the name of the person reviewing your resume.
If you’re not able to find that information, you can address their position title i.e. Dear Hiring Manager..
Section 3 – Your Opening Paragraph
Your cover letter opening paragraph should contain your interest in the role and company based on the research you’ve done.
It should also show the job title you’re applying for and where you saw the position posted.
This is your future employer’s first impression of you so make it count.
Section 4 – Second Paragraph
Your second paragraph should include your experience and backgrounds and how it relates to the position your applying for.
You should list your skills and achievements and any impact you made in your previous position.
Make sure that you only include information from recent job experiences.
Section 5 – Closing Paragraph
The closing paragraph should contain any key achievements or accolades you received in your previous position.
Don’t repeat details from your resume but instead tell a brief story about your work history and how it impacted your last position in a positive way.
Section 6 – Closing Paragraph
The closing paragraph should keep the same tone as the rest of the cover letter.
You want to show your potential employer that you are polite, professional and enthusiastic about the position.
Express gratitude for the reader’s consideration and explain your value to the company.
Try to focus on the needs of the company and how you can be a valuable asset.
Finally, end with a professional signoff such as ‘Sincerely’, ‘Best Regards’, or ‘Thank You’.
Check out these cover letter samples and templates for more ideas!
