Six seconds. That is the average time a hiring manager spends on your resume. How does anyone know the talent of someone in six seconds? The short answer is: you don’t. That is why it’s important to have a killer cover letter. This gives hiring managers the opportunity before the resume to get to know you, your skillsets, and your greatest attributes. Here are some tips on how to write the perfect cover letter.
Use a Professional Header
This one is a basic first step in creating the perfect cover letter. To begin, include the version of your name that is consistent across all platforms (your resume, LinkedIn, email, etc). Next include a phone number, preferably a personal cell phone or home phone, do not use your current work number. Also, keep in mind that your voicemail should represent you in a professional manner. After your phone number, is your email address. This too should be represented in a professional manner. If you still have the same email from long ago, one that might include your favorite candy brand…it is time for a new one. Gmail is a free software that allows you to create a professional email, we recommend doing first+lastname@gmail.com, or something close to that if yours is unavailable (firstname+lastnameinitial@gmail.com). Here is a quick guide on what to include in your professional letter head:
Name
Phone number
Email address
Date
Name of the hiring manager and their professional title
Name and address of the company to which you’re applying
It’s extremely important to double check all of this, the last thing you want is to be one of the top candidates but them not able to reach you because you had an error in your email address.
Include Hiring Managers Name
How to address your cover letter is a very common question. You want to address your cover letter directly to the hiring manager that is reading it. Use “Dear” followed by:
Their first name only if you’re applying to a company with a relaxed culture.
Mr./Ms. and their last name if eyeing a stiff corporate job.
If you are unsure of who the hiring manager is, find out. Search the company website, visit their LinkedIn, contact the company, or check the job description to see if the hiring manager was mentioned there. If all else fails, use “Dear Hiring Manager”.
Use the Three Paragraph Rule
The three-paragraph cover letter format is crucial in highlighting what doesn’t show on your resume. With the potential of multiple candidates having your same skills, a cover letter offers the chance to really sell yourself and show your personality.
The Hook – the first paragraph is to grab the hiring managers attention and have them continue reading on. Make this paragraph catchy so it attracts and holds the hiring manager’s interest.
What You Offer – the second paragraph should focus on your skills and how your experiences have set you up to succeed at this role. The hiring manager will be pleased to see that you are exactly what they are looking for and able to fill the needs of the position adequately.
The Culture – the third paragraph should include your values and how they align with the companies. If there is an aspect of the company that you find inspiring or connected with, highlight that so the hiring manager can see you are passionate not only about the position, but the culture as well. When a job feels rewarding, the employees will last a lot longer with the company.
Closing Paragraph
The closing paragraph should be short and simple, but not generic. Using the “thank you for your time and consideration, I look forward to hearing from you,” is not a strategic closing paragraph. Provide an offer, something that intrigues them to continue their curiosity in you. Tell the hiring manager that you’re looking forward to meeting them in person and discussing how your experience and knowledge can help your future employer in fulfilling their goals.
Formal Closing
A “Sincerely” or “Thank you” synonym is the best way to end your cover letter professionally. Include your full name, if you can use a copy of a handwritten signature that would look best. Follow with your contact details: phone number, email, LinkedIn profile.
Remember to always keep your cover letter short and simple and to the point. A rule of thumb to follow is 250-300 words for experienced candidates and 200 words for entry-level candidates. If you find your cover letter to be too long, try using a few bullet points to shorten a lengthy paragraph. And there you go! A perfect cover letter to help land your dream job. For more help, visit www.globalstaffusa.com or leave a comment!