How to Craft the Perfect Cover Letter Step by Step Tips With Samples

A good cover letter is often the first impression you make to your prospective employer to stand out. It evokes the emotion in the reader, something that even the best resume cannot. 

It actually serves as a first chapter in introducing yourself. 

Basically, it is an additional document along with your resume, where you highlight your achievements, allover experience, and your motivation towards the job you are applying for.

But most of the time, crafting a perfect cover letter can be daunting. What should you include? How do you grab the reader’s attention? 

This guide will help you create a compelling cover letter with tips, strategies, and samples to guide you every step of the way.

Know why a Cover Letter is Important

A cover letter works alongside your resume to provide more details about your abilities and character. 

It allows you to: Introduce yourself and state your interest in the job. Emphasize your skills and experiences that are relevant. 

Display your knowledge about the company and the job you are applying for. Showcase your communication skills and passion for the position.

Structure of a perfect cover letter

  • A well-crafted cover letter should be brief, usually just one page long, and organized into these key parts:
  1. The Header: Put your contact information at the top, then add the date and the employer’s details.
  2. The Opening Paragraph: Start strong by introducing yourself, mentioning the job you’re applying for, and briefly explaining why you’re interested in it.
  3. The Body: Showcase your relevant skills, experiences, and qualifications that align with the job requirements. Provide specific examples of your achievements in similar roles or scenarios.
  4. The Closing Paragraph: Conclude with a powerful ending that reinforces your excitement for the position, expresses gratitude for considering your application, and includes a call to action (like expressing your desire for an interview).
  5. The Sign-Off: Finish with a professional closing such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards,” followed by your full name.

Advice on How to Pen a Memorable Cover Letter

  1. Get Personalized: Every cover letter should be specific to that job and company. Include the Company’s name, and attempt to mirror their ideology and culture.
  2. Short and Sweet: Make sure it covers a single page, including use of short paragraphs and bullet points to make it readable within the page limit. 
  3. You Have to Prove It: Illustrate your qualities and achievements with specific examples. 
  4. Market Yourself: State exactly what makes you different from other general candidates.
  5. Edit: Make sure that no mistakes occur in the letter and proofread it after writing the letter.

Sample Cover Letters

Sample 1: For a recent graduate or person seeking first employment

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Full Name],

I hasten to apply for the position of Marketing Assistant at XYZ Company as seen on your company’s website. I am a current Marketing graduate seeking an entry level employment in order to put my skills and talents to practice. I am eager to learn and contribute to your team and develop the brand of XYZ Company further.

On the other hand, one of my roles at ABC Corp was a three months long social media campaign that I started and lead which resulted in a 30% increase in engagement. I have experience in content creation and evaluation of market metrics to develop a marketing approach. I must say that XYZ’s marketing efforts are most appealing to me and I would love to join your team to contribute my all towards the creativity of the company.

Once again thank you very much for your consideration of my application. I hope to have a conversation with you about your needs and how I can fulfill them in the future and the positive impact that I can have on the growth of XYZ Company.

Regards,

[Your Name]

Sample 2: Experienced Professional

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am writing this letter in order to showcase my interest in the position of the Senior Project Manager as listed in ABC Corp’s career website. I have above 10 years of experience in the management of complex projects in the area of technology and I look forward to being a valuable resource in your organization.

For instance, in my last design and coordination position at DEF Inc., I managed to finish up a $5 million software development program with a cross functional team three months earlier and 15% under the provision of funds. I was able to deal with problems resulting from transitions within the project by using the leadership skills, worry solving skills, and good communications skills that I have.

What attracts me most in your company is the process of innovation and improvement which is perpetual in nature and to that end I am looking forward to contributing my knowledge in project management in facilitating your processes.

Thank you for offering the opportunity to apply for this position. I am Caroline and would be glad to explain in depth my qualifications in an interview.

Conclusion

With a strong, attuned cover letter, this is your opportunity to make a positive first impression and portray yourself as the ideal candidate. 

To manage to do this, use the examples above more as guidelines than as exact templates and you’ll have no trouble crafting one wonderful cover letter that grabs attention.

Do not forget that your cover letter is not an appendage but a crucial element of your job search. Make good use of it.

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