A cover letter is an essential part of your job application package, accompanying your resume and providing a more personal introduction to your skills, experiences, and motivation for applying to a specific position. In this article, we'll discuss the importance of a cover letter, its basic components, cover letter keywords, synonyms for "cover letter," examples of effective cover letters, and words and phrases to avoid in your cover letter.
The Basics of a Cover Letter
A cover letter serves as a personal introduction to your potential employer, highlighting your skills and experiences, and demonstrating your interest in the position and the company. It differs from a resume, which is a more structured document focusing on your work history and qualifications. A well-crafted cover letter should be formatted professionally, addressed properly, include relevant information, and be tailored to the specific job you're applying for.
- Addressing a cover letter: Ideally, address your cover letter to the hiring manager. If their name is provided in the job listing, use it. If not, do some research to find their name, or use a general salutation such as "To Whom It May Concern." More on addressing a cover letter
- What to include in a cover letter: Your cover letter should include a brief introduction, a summary of your skills and experiences related to the job, and a closing paragraph expressing your interest in the position and the company. Be sure to mention specific achievements, quantifiable results, and relevant accomplishments that showcase your ability to excel in the role. More on what to include in a cover letter
- Tailoring your cover letter: Customize your cover letter for each job application by researching the company, understanding its core values and pain points, and relating your experiences and interests to the company's needs. Focus on how your skills and background can benefit the organization, and why you're a great fit for their team. More on tailoring a cover letter
Cover Letter Keywords
Keywords in a cover letter are words or phrases that highlight your skills and qualifications related to the job you're applying for. They're important because they help your cover letter stand out and make it more likely to be noticed by hiring managers and applicant tracking systems (ATS).
- Types of keywords: Credential or experience keywords (e.g. project management, sales, or marketing), skill-related keywords (e.g. problem-solving, leadership, or teamwork), and industry-specific keywords (e.g. software development, healthcare, or finance). More on cover letter keywords
- Incorporating keywords: Use relevant keywords throughout your cover letter, especially in the summary of your skills and experiences. Be sure to use them naturally and avoid keyword stuffing. You can also use action verbs (e.g. managed, developed, or optimized) to describe your achievements and make your cover letter more engaging. More on incorporating keywords
Synonyms for Cover Letter
Using synonyms for "cover letter" can help your application stand out and demonstrate your creativity and unique approach. Some synonyms for "cover letter" include:
- Application letter
- Letter of interest
- Motivation letter
- Introductory letter
- Expression of interest
More on synonyms for cover letter
Words and Phrases to Avoid in Your Cover Letter
Cover Letter Examples
Studying cover letter examples can help you understand what makes an effective cover letter and inspire you to write your own. Below are two examples of different types of cover letters, one for an entry-level position and another for a career change, to provide valuable insights into how to tailor your cover letter to your specific circumstances.
An effective cover letter should grab the reader's attention, showcase your unique value, and persuade the employer to consider you for an interview. Some examples of effective cover letters include:
- A cover letter that tells a compelling story about your background and career journey, illustrating how your experiences have shaped your skills and interests.
- A cover letter that focuses on the company's needs and how you can help them achieve their goals, demonstrating your understanding of their challenges and opportunities.
- A cover letter that uses strong, persuasive language to emphasize your enthusiasm for the role and your commitment to making a positive impact on the organization.
Entry-Level Cover Letter Example
I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name] as advertised on [Job Board/Company Website]. As a recent graduate of [Your University] with a [Your Degree] in [Your Major], I am eager to apply my skills and enthusiasm to contribute to [Company Name]'s success.
During my time at [Your University], I gained valuable experience in [Relevant Skill 1] and [Relevant Skill 2] through various projects and internships. My strong work ethic and ability to adapt quickly to new challenges allowed me to excel in these experiences.
In addition to my academic achievements, I also acquired practical skills through my internships at [Previous Company 1] and [Previous Company 2]. These experiences provided me with a solid foundation in [Industry-Specific Skill 1] and [Industry-Specific Skill 2], which I am confident will make a positive impact at [Company Name].
I am particularly drawn to [Company Name] because of its [Mention a specific aspect of the company that appeals to you]. I believe my passion for [Industry/Job-Related Topic] and my commitment to [Company-Related Value] make me an ideal candidate for this role.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further and demonstrate how I can contribute to the success of [Company Name]. Please feel free to contact me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address] to schedule a conversation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Career Change Cover Letter Example
I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name] as advertised on [Job Board/Company Website]. As a professional with [Number] years of experience in [Previous Industry], I am excited to transition into [New Industry] and bring my transferable skills and passion to [Company Name].
Throughout my career, I have developed strong [Relevant Skill 1] and [Relevant Skill 2] skills that have proven valuable in my previous roles. My experience in [Previous Industry] has allowed me to develop a keen understanding of [Industry-Specific Topic] and a strong ability to [Job-Related Task].
In my most recent role as a [Previous Job Title] at [Previous Company], I successfully [Achievement or Responsibility], resulting in [Positive Outcome]. I believe that my experience in [Previous Industry] and my ability to [Transferable Skill] will translate well to the [Job Title] position at [Company Name].
I am particularly drawn to [Company Name] because of its [Mention a specific aspect of the company that appeals to you]. I am confident that my passion for [New Industry] and my commitment to [Company-Related Value] make me an ideal candidate for this role.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further and demonstrate how I can contribute to the success of [Company Name]. Please feel free to contact me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address] to schedule a conversation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
These examples should serve as a starting point for crafting your own unique cover letter tailored to your specific situation and the job you're applying for. Remember to research the company, incorporate relevant keywords, and avoid cliché language to create a compelling cover letter that sets you apart from the competition.
Analysis of effective cover letters
Words and Phrases to Avoid in a Cover Letter
To make your cover letter more professional and engaging, avoid using cliches, jargon, and overused phrases. Some words and phrases to avoid include:
- "To Whom It May Concern" (if possible, find the hiring manager's name)
- "I'm a team player" (instead, provide examples of your teamwork skills)
- "I'm a hard worker" (focus on specific achievements that prove your work ethic)
- "I'm a quick learner" (demonstrate your ability to adapt and learn by mentioning relevant experiences)
- "Please find attached my resume" (it's generally assumed that your resume is attached)
By following these guidelines and incorporating the tips mentioned above, you can create a more effective and compelling cover letter that showcases your unique skills and experiences, and helps you stand out in the competitive job market. More on words and phrases to avoid in a cover letter
Conclusion
An effective cover letter is crucial for making a strong impression on potential employers. By understanding the basics of a cover letter, incorporating keywords, tailoring your letter to the specific job, and avoiding cliché language, you'll be well on your way to crafting a compelling cover letter that sets you apart from the competition.