Cover letters aren’t always required for every position, but they do make a difference in today’s job market. A good cover letter should be professional, provide background information to support a resume, and stand out from other applicants. Trying to accomplish all three may seem complicated, bur it’s actually surprisingly simple. Here are six easy steps for writing an effective cover letter.
How to Write a Cover Letter
1. Start with a header
In most cases, the applicant will be using a standard cover letter format which begins with a header. The header section contains the applicant’s personal information, such as their name, phone number, and email address.
2. Open with a greeting
Before starting the cover letter, address the hiring manager with a common, professional greeting, such as “Dear,” or “Hello.” It’s best to address the hiring manager by their full name and title if possible. If the applicant is unable to track down the hiring manager’s name, then “Dear Hiring Manager,” is acceptable.
3. Write a memorable introduction
The first paragraph of the cover letter should detail the applicant’s name and the position that they’re applying for. It should also include relevant experience, achievements, and qualifications. This is the applicant’s first and only chance to grab the reader’s attention, so it’s a great place to mention any significant accomplishments.
4. Include background info
The second paragraph of a cover letter should illustrate why the applicant is a good fit for the position. Usually, this section would include a brief overview of the applicant’s professional skills and background that also fulfills the job requirements. It’s also helpful to include one or two of the applicant’s quantifiable, measurable achievements.
5. Finish with a call-to-action
The last paragraph of the cover letter can be used to summarize key points and thank the reader for their time. Ideally, the last sentence of this section should be a call-to-action, such as a statement that the applicant is looking forward to hearing from the hiring team.
6. Close with a professional sign-off
Finally, end the cover letter with a formal “goodbye,” followed by a signature. Some excellent examples are:
- Sincerely
- Best regards
- Thank you