Episode 42: Cover Letters that Work!
So you're looking to change your career. Whenever you make an application, more often than not you will also be asked to provide a cover letter. But does it really make a difference in the application process?
To be honest, from talking to many human resources professionals and recruiters, the response is about 50/50 as to whether or not a cover letter is important.
Many have told me that they go straight to the resume, as they don’t want to read ‘fluff.’ Fluff is what many people put in their cover letters.
You must make the letter relevant and interesting to the reader so you stand out. Many screeners have told me that they always read a cover letter as the letter will highlight the reason WHY someone is applying for the role and also will demonstrate the level of their written communication.
A cover letter gives your personality a chance to shine through.
Correct grammar, spelling and layout are important.
Let there be enough white space so it’s easy to read.
Make it easy for the reader to see that you are the ideal candidate for the role and that you have what it takes to be successful.
Even if only 50% of recruiters and hiring managers read the cover letter, for those 50 it is essential to get it right.
If you want a sample template that you can follow if you are stuck when writing your cover letters, email jane@janejacksoncoach.com and I’ll send you one.
Remember that a cover letter should be no longer than one page and what you include must be relevant to the reader.
Research the company first, and use what is most interesting to you as a ‘hook’ in the letter to show that you would be a good fit for the role.
Don’t over sell, state facts and then let your tangible achievements in your resumé do the rest!
Email jane@janejacksoncoach.com for a free cover letter template.
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