The Secrets to Writing a Persuasive Cover Letter
What is a Cover Letter?
A cover letter is a one-page document that is sent with a job application. It’s the first important point of contact an employer has with a job applicant and plays an important role in helping employers decide who they’d like to invite for an interview.
Make the Most of the Opening Lines
The opening lines of your cover letter make an important first impression and should immediately capture the reader’s attention. Start your letter with a brief introduction as to why you’re writing and the type of job you’re applying for. Keep it brief and relevant, connected to the requirements of the role.
Establish Credibility
Establish your credibility by highlighting your relevant qualifications and experience. Explain how your abilities and past experiences can help the company meet its goals. Prioritize what you think is most important to the employer and tie it back to the job description, connecting your knowledge and experience to the requirements the employer has.
Focus on Benefits
Instead of listing the tasks and duties you’ve performed in previous roles, focus more on the benefits. For example, “I wrote marketing copy that increased company sales by X%”, or “I significantly reduced customer service costs by Y%”. Explain how you can add value to the role and the company.
Highlight Your Skills
It’s important to use the right language to indicate why you might be the best person for the job. Demonstrate knowledge of the company, its services or products, and how their success aligns with your own personal and professional goals. Make sure you highlight your relevant skills and accomplishments.
Be Honest
Be honest throughout your application and make sure you can deliver what you’re promising. Don’t exaggerate on the details because when the employer reaches out to enquire further, they might become aware that the information you’ve provided was false or misleading.
Say Thank You
End your letter by thanking the reader for taking the time to consider your application and invite them to contact you with any questions. Include a line with when you plan to follow up in case you don’t hear back within a certain timeframe. Make sure your contact details are correct, to avoid any miscommunication.
Get Professional Help
Writing a persuasive cover letter can be difficult and time-consuming. If you’d like an experienced professional to give you a helping hand, our team of cover letter writers can help you create a document that impresses potential employers. With our help, your cover letter could be the key that opens the doors to your dream job.