A cover letter is more than just a formality; it’s an essential part of your job application.
Here’s why it matters:
– First Impressions: Introduces you to potential employers.
– Shows Interest: Highlights your enthusiasm for the position.
– Skills Match: Details how your abilities align with the job.
– Detailed Insight: Adds depth to your professional profile.
1. Date and contact information
2. Salutation/greeting
3. Opening paragraph
4. Middle paragraphs
5. Closing paragraph
6. Complimentary close and signature
1. Date and contact information
There are two ways to list contact information on your cover letter, depending on whether you’re providing a digital or hard copy.
If you’re submitting a digital copy online, feel free to leave off your specific address
If you like just use your phone number and email—and leave off the company and HR manager’s contact information altogether
2. Salutation / greeting
Dear Sir
Dear madam
Dear Hiring manager
Dear Sir/madam
Dear Mr. Resume
Dear Mr. Maleka
3. Opening paragraph
The opening paragraph is your chance to catch the hiring manager’s attention, introduce yourself and enthusiastically tell the employer why you’re applying for the job.
You’ll want to make this paragraph specific to each job listing you apply for.
Include why you’re excited about the job and the company, and how the job lines up with your career goals. Avoid making this paragraph sound formulaic by including keywords from the job posting and matching your skills to the employer’s requirements.
If you were referred to this job by someone who knows the hiring manager or already works at this company, you may want to mention this referral in your opening paragraph.
4. Middle paragraphs
Now that you’ve introduced yourself and established your enthusiasm, it’s time to dig into your most relevant experience and talk about the specific qualifications and skills that make you the perfect candidate.
In one or two paragraphs, make the connection between your previous accomplishments and your readiness for this new role.
Think of these paragraphs as a way to pitch yourself as the ideal match for the role.
Employers will likely have read your CV already, so avoid repeating the bullet points. Instead, include details that more deeply illustrate those highlights.
Remember not to repeat your CV in the letter.
5. Closing paragraph
The main goal of your closing paragraph is to thank the employer for their time and consideration.
You also have the option of making any clarifications. For example, you can justify any major gaps in your employment history. You can also use this space to sum up your qualifications for the role and express an interest in continuing to the next stage in the hiring process.
6. Complimentary close and signature
Choose a complimentary closing that is friendly yet formal, followed by your first and last name.
Closings you might consider include:
Yours Sincerely.. Best Regards…
If your salutation has a name of the recipient… Dear Counsel Duke Ochanda
Thank You for Your Consideration
Yours faithfully,
👆
I am sure the tips above are helpful… And you have found some value or learnt something new today…perhaps you have noticed where you used to make mistakes.
Now draft good letters.
