A cover letter is a concise, personalized document that introduces a job applicant to an employer, highlighting motivation for the job and relevant qualifications. It typically consists of a greeting, an opening paragraph stating the position applied for and why the applicant is a good fit, persuasive body paragraphs showcasing accomplishments and skills relevant to the job, and a strong conclusion expressing interest in an interview. Key elements of a cover letter include:
- A personalized greeting addressing the hiring manager by name if possible.
- An opening that mentions the job role and why the applicant is applying.
- Body paragraphs emphasizing relevant skills and achievements that align with the job requirements using specific examples.
- A closing paragraph reiterating enthusiasm for the role and inviting further discussion.
Best practices include customizing each cover letter for the specific job and employer, maintaining a professional tone, using clear and readable formatting, and thoroughly proofreading for spelling and grammar mistakes. Cover letters are usually 3 to 5 paragraphs long and should be no longer than one page. Useful tips:
- Research the company and role before writing to tailor the content.
- Align language and keywords with the job description.
- Use measurable examples of past successes.
- End with a formal closing such as "Yours sincerely" if the recipient's name is known, or "Yours faithfully" otherwise.
This structure and approach help present the applicant as a motivated and well-qualified candidate, complementing the resume or CV submitted with the job application.
