Why is a good cover letter important?

When you’re writing a cover letter, the little things can make a big difference. The better your letter is, the better your chances are of getting a job interview. Follow these tips for composing a winning cover letter, and you will increase your chances of landing the job you want.

Research and brainstorm

Before you start writing your cover letter, familiarize yourself with the role requirements. Read the job listing carefully and pull out the most important information. Then, spend time on the company’s website to get a strong sense of the company’s culture, values, and mission. Brainstorm the most effective way to communicate your suitability for the role in your cover letter. Brainstorming is a key part of the writing process.

Personalize your greeting

The first thing the recruiter or hiring manager will notice in your cover letter is whether you addressed it to them personally. It’s not always easy to find the recruiter’s or hiring manager’s name, but it’s always worth your time to directly address the person who will be making the hiring decision.

Grab the reader’s attention

Your cover letter needs to grab attention within the first sentence or two. Remember, the recruiter is going to be reading lots of cover letters that will contain pretty similar content. If your cover letter doesn’t captivate them from the get-go, you could get overlooked.

Show your enthusiasm about the role

Throughout your cover letter, use language that communicates your passion for the kind of work you do. Your word choice plays a big role in shaping how recruiters perceive your attitude toward your work experience and your enthusiasm for the role.

Remember - Make sure that your cover letter is readable, clear, and concise with real-time suggestions for stronger, more precise language.