A Foolproof Formula for Writing Cover Letters

One of the most difficult things about finding a job is you need to write a cover letter. The problem with cover letters is they need to be unique for every job you apply for. They express how your skills, experience, and everything that has brought you to this point is relevant to the particular position. When you’re applying for many jobs, this slows you down and limits how many job applications you send out every week. Using a formula will help you speed up.

Understand the Purpose of a Cover Letter

Before you write anything, you need to understand the goal of the cover letter. It introduces your application by giving some background to who you are and explaining your experience in greater depth than what is possible on a resume. It should directly relate to what the employer is looking for, based on information in the job posting.

It’s also important to know what employers don’t want to see in a cover letter. It is distinct from a letter of intent, which is about demonstrating your knowledge. In addition, it should not contain personal information about you, such as about your life and family history. This is because it is illegal to hire someone based on certain personal details.

Use the Right Structure

Cover letters have a basic structure. They begin with a short introduction, are followed by information about your skills, and end with a summary paragraph as a conclusion. Each skill needs to be its own paragraph.

Introduction

The introduction states the purpose of the letter (specifying which job you’re applying for), gives a brief explanation of who you are, and explains why you’re interested in the position. For instance, you may be interested in working for the organization, feel that the position would be a great next step in your career growth, or be interested in the challenges the job will bring you.

Middle

For the middle, choose whatever skills, experience, and qualifications you feel are most relevant to the job. Add detail that was not possible to include on your resume. There’s no need to write a lot — just make it clear that you do possess the qualities your employer is looking for in a candidate.

Conclusion

Tie everything together in a concluding paragraph. Just like you do in the summary for a term paper, remind the reader of the main points you’ve made. Add a sentence after this thanking the hiring manager for taking the time to read your cover letter.

Cover letters don’t need to be long — in fact, hiring managers prefer not to read a large number of pages. Be as concise as possible while making sure you include all the key information.
If you schedule time for cover letter writing (just like you do studying), you’ll find it’s much easier to fit into your week, which will avoid the task from becoming overwhelming. The key is having somewhere to focus on writing cover letters, such as a quiet spot in your student apartment. For Ontario Tech University off-campus housing, there’s no better place than 17Hundred. We offer upgraded furniture in every apartment and onsite study rooms with blazing-fast Wi-Fi. Book a tour now.