One thing you may have noticed when applying for jobs is that most require a cover letter. Today we’ll focus on how to write an effective cover letter! One that will get you noticed by the hiring manager and stand out from the crowd.

Some people may say that cover letters are dead. After all, it’s 2019 and we now live in a digital world. Here are some stats to consider from a 2017 Job Seeker Nation Study:

• 47% of people don’t bother to submit a cover letter
• 26% of recruiters still consider a cover letter necessary

While the number may be small, there are still enough recruiters out there who expect cover letters. That’s why we’re going to give you some tips to craft an effective, targeted cover letter to help you get the job you want.

How to Write a Cover Letter

1. Be Specific. A general cover letter can be easily spotted. While it takes time to craft each individual cover letter, it’s worth it if you want to be recognized.
2. Add a Name. Take the time to find the hiring managers name and address them directly on the letter. It’s little things like this that can make a big difference and edge out your competition.
3. Keep it Short. Don’t drone on in the cover letter. Keep it short and sweet, no more than 4 -5 short paragraphs. Stick to 500 words or less in the body of the cover letter.
4. Match your Resume. Whatever template or format you use for your resume, use the same for your cover letter. Check out our article on how to create an ATS-friendly resume if you need tips.
5. Highlight your Strengths. Don’t rewrite your resume in the cover letter! Take your strongest skills that will help solve the company’s problems from it and put them in your cover letter.
6. Focus on the Company. Yes, you are writing the cover letter ABOUT you, but you need to focus on THEM. What do you bring to the table that they need to help their business run more effectively?
7. PDF is the best format. Make sure the cover letter is able to be opened and viewed easily by always saving in PDF format. Include your resume behind the cover letter so they stay together.
8. A template might be necessary. If you aren’t good at formatting or get too wordy, use a template to help you. You can find many online, with different formats and styles.
9. End with Next Steps. Your final sentence should show how much you want the job and when is the best time to contact you. “I feel I am the ideal candidate for this position and welcome the opportunity to speak further about the opportunity. I’m available by phone from 8 a.m. – 10 a.m. Monday – Friday and also after 3 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday.”
10. Edit and Proofread. Make sure you read through your cover letter (and resume) at least twice before you send it in. Be very critical of grammar, spelling, and the tone of the cover letter. This is the very first impression the company will get of you, so you need to make it count.

Final Thoughts

Writing a targeted cover letter can be time-consuming, but if it lands you the job, it’s worth it. By crafting a tailored cover letter to each job you apply for, it will set you apart from other applicants.

Remember, less than half of the people who apply send a cover letter. You can make a big impact on a hiring manager by selling yourself as the perfect candidate for the job.

We hope you liked these tips on how to write an effective cover letter. We’ve got even more tips on how to prepare for a phone interview and how to transition into your first career.