Communicate with Customers
April 15, 2020
The Importance of Being Effective (at Communicating, that is!)
May 4, 2020
Cover letters are your first impression when applying to a job, and standing out from the crowd is important.
We will be sharing some tips about how to leverage your cover letter to land the interview for that perfect position!
Tip # 1: Tailor each cover letter for the position for which you are applying. Demonstrate that you read the job description by including something about their business or a phrase that was used in the description.
For example, our job descriptions state that there is a dog in the office. The cover letters which mention the dog let us know that the letter was written for us.
Make sure that you include the position for which you are applying in the cover letter. Many companies may have more than one position available.
Tip #2: When you save your cover letter, use your name and perhaps the name of the company.
For example if you are applying for a job with Apple and your last name is Waldron. You might call the document “Waldron – Apple”.
This will help you make sure that you are attaching the correct cover letter and help the person receiving the cover letter be able to find it again. In addition, you will be able to find it for reference before going for an interview.
Did you double check the attachment before you hit send?!
Tip #3: When applying for a part-time position, use the cover letter to show that you understand it is a part-time job.
You don’t have to provide any personal information on why you are looking to work part-time.
For example, if it is 20 hours per week, you might say that 20 hours works perfectly for your schedule.
Tip # 4: Your first paragraph should be the hook. Tell them why hiring your qualifications make you the perfect part-time professional to hire.
Start with sharing some of your qualifications and then tell them a story which includes this and highlights your results.
You can also ask a question which makes them think.
Tip # 5: The second paragraph is your opportunity to “sell” them on why they should hire you. What value would you bring to the table.
As a part-time professional, you can include that by being focused on X project, you can do Y. Take time to make sure that your language is very clear on how you will make their company better.
Tip # 6: Your final paragraph should include one or 2 sentences of summary. It should also include a call to action along with how to contact you. Make it easy for them. Finally thank the reader for their time.
Tip #7: A cover letter can look a number of different ways. If you have Microsoft Word, you can use one of their templates.
We recommend having an address block at the top with the name of the company, hiring person’s name (if shared in ad), address and via email address; and a signature block at the bottom.
Create a pdf of the document so that the formatting doesn’t get distorted when opened on a different computer or operating system.
Tip # 8: Your cover letter is part of your application. It is a primary way that you are introducing yourself to the company.
If you have typos and spelling errors, you most likely will not get a positive response. Show the company that you take pride in your work by making sure that there are no errors in your letter.
If you are super excited about a position, have a friend read the letter and give you feedback.
You only get one shot to make a first impression!