Job seekers have a variety of tools available to help them in their search. Unfortunately, far too many candidates fail to properly utilize those tools to maximize their chance of success. Plus, some of the tools are all but ignored.
Take the cover letter, for example. Many job candidates focus so much attention on writing an outstanding resume, that they view the cover letter as little more than a formality. The problem with that approach is that your cover letter can be a powerful tool to help you stand out from the crowd and capture the hiring manager’s attention.
These five tips can help you to improve your cover letter and increase your chances of landing an interview.
1. Be Concise and Captivating
Always remember that your cover letter has a purpose: to introduce yourself to a hiring manager in a way that captures his or her attention. Like any introduction, however, you have only a show window to make your case.
With that in mind, it’s vital to create a concise, straightforward cover letter that highlights key points in a captivating way. You must be able to quickly provide an employer with key information about your skills, knowledge, and value proposition. This ensures that you’re seen as a potentially qualified candidate for the position.
A truly captivating cover letter will effectively showcase your talents and qualifications – as well as your potential value to the company if you’re hired. That’s the best way to make a great first impression and capture the attention you need to get that all-important interview.
2. Use the Right Keywords
Don’t forget to use keywords in your cover letter. Many companies today use applicant tracking systems to manage resume documents, so you should get used to using the keywords that those systems look for in their scans.
Search the job posting for relevant terms related to the position and the qualifications required. Those terms are likely to be used as keywords, so be sure to include them in your cover letter and your resume.
ATS screeners will reject submissions that don’t include the right keywords. You can see how your resume does in an actual ATS scan with this free resume review tool.
3. Tailor Your Cover Letter to Match the Job
Be sure to modify each cover letter you send off to various companies. It may be tempting to use a generic, one-size-fits-all document, but that individualized approach will make a better impression.
Consider researching the company to learn more about its values and mission, and then include language to demonstrate that you will fit within that company culture. By tailoring your document to the company, you’ll demonstrate just how serious you are about joining their team.
4. Highlight Your Achievements
While you can describe your education and skills, make sure that it’s not just a boring list of your qualifications. Instead, showcase your qualifications by describing what they have helped you achieve.
If your experience and skills provided tangible benefits to a prior employer, describe those benefits. Use real numbers to demonstrate the real impact on that company’s bottom line. Remember, employers don’t just want to know that you can do the job. They also need to be able to imagine that hiring you will add value to their team.
5. Include a Call-to-Action
A call-to-action is critical if you want to make the right impression. Some job candidates are reluctant to ask for what they want, and then wonder why they never get that interview call they were hoping for.
We see the same dynamic at play with many salespeople: they’re good at describing features and benefits to customers, but never get around to asking for the sale. Well, if you want that interview, ask for it! Your call-to-action can be as simple as writing:
“I am excited to have the opportunity to be considered for your company’s open position, and potentially become a part of your dynamic team. I am eager to discuss the position with you in greater detail and answer any questions you may have, either by phone or in a formal interview. Please feel free to call me at [your number] or email me at [your email address] any time.”
Improve Your Cover Letter, today!
No matter how great your resume may be, it may not be enough to land you an interview. When combined with a powerful, concise, and compelling cover letter, however, your odds of job search success can dramatically increase. Use these five tips when you write your next cover letter, and watch those interviews come rolling in.
About the author: Natalya Khaykis is a writer and analyst at ZipJob. She graduated from NYU with a masters and currently resides in New York City. She covers topics related to resume writing and job search. In her free time you’ll find Natalya attempting to cook an edible meal, reading and spending time with her husband.
