Cover Letter Tips - Part 1: Crafting the Perfect Introduction
A LETTER FROM MONIQUE
Cover Letters. Definitely a ‘you love ‘em’ or ‘you hate ‘em’ kind of thing.
I know some Recruiters and Hiring Managers who swear by them (ahem…me), and some who don’t. I know some Job Seekers who landed their jobs solely due to their cover letters and some who didn’t get an interview because of it.
There is a general consensus among Recruiters, Hiring Managers, and Career Coaches that cover letters are important and recommended for most job applications. And let’s be real, they’re not going anywhere.
Between my work as a Specialized Recruiter for the Administrative Profession and my Resume Review & Interview Preparation Coaching, I’ve talked to hundreds of Job Seekers. I know it’s tough out there and I know how difficult resumes and interviews are. I also know that transitions are hard, and just the idea of finding a new job is anxiety-provoking. Click here for my blog, “The Truth About Transitions.”
I’m here to help however I can.
Note: The importance of a cover letter varies across different industries and roles, as well as which parts are most significant. Some applications may not require one, but they are vital for roles that involve writing, communication, or client-facing responsibilities. Examples include marketing, public relations, journalism, sales roles, and the WHOLE of the ADMINISTRATIVE PROFESSION.
Additionally, for senior-level leadership or management positions, cover letters are expected and valued. For these coveted, demanding, and highly paid jobs, clearly articulating their leadership experience, vision, and humanness beyond the resume bullets is non-negotiable. If you want to be analogous with the leadership team, then all the rules apply.
Have I convinced you yet? If so, keep reading. If not, keep reading too! And, away we go!
Your resume is a factual document, but your cover letter is where you can truly shine by injecting your unique personality and enthusiasm. This is your chance to make a strong first impression and stand out from other candidates.
Since every career is different, providing examples for each tip was proving quite difficult. I ultimately decided to write them as if I were Dolly Parton applying for a DJ position at a Country Music Radio Station, long after her experiences at Consolidated Industries. Why not, right?
Tip 1: Briefly introduce yourself and mention the specific job.
Your cover letter should start with 1-2 brief sentences, stating who you are and the position you are applying for. This sets the stage for the rest of your letter and for your resume.
Example: "My name is Dolly Parton, and I am thrilled to apply for the DJ position at your renowned Country Music Radio Station. With decades of experience in the music industry and a lifelong love of country music, I am eager to bring my passion and energy to your team."
Why It Matters: A clear and direct introduction helps the Hiring Manager understand your application immediately. Most Job Seekers fail to include this simple but crucial information, making it harder for the Hiring Manager to instantaneously see a name, the position, the company, and a few adjectives to focus them for the next 6-196 seconds. They can have 20 open placements simultaneously, and juggle anywhere from 50-5000 resumes for each. Trust me when I say, it helps.
Tip 2: Highlight two or three relevant skills and experiences.
Use your cover letter to emphasize key skills and experiences that make you a strong candidate for the job. These are the skills and experiences that THEY are looking for and specifically mentioned, not the skills and experiences you have that they should be looking for, because they need it, and don’t know it.
Example: "Throughout my career, I have hosted countless radio shows and 12 television specials, engaging audiences with my storytelling and deep knowledge of country music. My ability to connect with listeners and create memorable experiences, all while understanding the world of broadcasting, makes me an ideal fit for this DJ role."
Why It Matters: Highlighting relevant skills shows that you have thoughtfully considered how your background aligns with the job. Notice I wrote this is YOU considering how YOU use YOUR background for the job…not them figuring out the connection points on their own without knowing you, your past, or your skills.
Tip 3: Use “nearly exact terminology” from the job description.
Incorporate language from the job description to show that you understand what the employer is looking for and to help your application pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
Example: "I excel in connecting with listeners through engaging stories and a deep love for country music. I understand the role a DJ plays in securing guest appearances, sponsorships, and station partnerships."
Underlined and italicized words came directly from different parts of the job description.
Why It Matters: Using the employer's language helps align your application with their needs. A study by Harvard Business Review revealed that 88% of Recruiters felt that an ATS ignored qualified candidates because they “did not match the exact criteria established by the job description.”
P.S. If you’re applying to a large organization, you’ll most likely face an ATS. If you’re applying through any online form, you’re applying through an ATS. Even job sites like Indeed and LinkedIn have their own built-in ATS. ATS’s are here to stay.
Tip 4: Use The Google to research the company to which you are applying.
It seems obvious to say that you should research the company before you apply. I believe it’s not as obvious as I thought. You should summarize your learnings, pointing out specific connections you have with their product, service, client, or cause.
Example: "I have always admired your radio station for its dedication to promoting both classic and contemporary country music. Your recent series on the evolution of country music deeply resonated with me, and I would be thrilled to contribute to such innovative programming."
Why It Matters: Personalization demonstrates genuine interest and enthusiasm for the position and the company. A study by ResumeLab found that 83% of recruiters appreciate when candidates personalize their applications, as it shows a higher level of commitment.
And…let me speak plainly…I have never (and will never) put forward an Administrative Professional for an Executive’s consideration who has not researched the company I’m hiring for. That is table stakes to me.
What did you think of Part 1? I’m open to feedback, new ideas, or topics! Please reach out and let me know.
Cover Letter Tips - Part 2: Showcasing Your Enthusiasm and Values
Cover Letter Tips - Part 3: Making a Lasting Impression
Cover Letter Tips - Part 4: 10 Biggest Mistakes Made When Writing a Cover Letter (Drops 07/18/24)
If you’re looking for more personalized help writing your resume or cover letter, or help preparing for interviews, check out my special going on NOW until July 12!
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