When You Submit a Resume How to Get Your Resume Past the Applicant Tracking System How to Get Your Resume Past the Applicant Tracking System Nine out of ten large employers now use a robotic applicant tracking system to screen your resume. We help you avoid your judgmental algorithms with simplification and keywords. Read More In almost all cases, it is appropriate and wise. The cover letter allows you to introduce yourself, personalize your interest in the company, address points that don't belong on a resume, and stand out.
If you need a little help writing your next cover letter, here are some tips and templates to help you.
One of the first things to remember when writing a cover letter is to tailor it to the specific position. While using a template helps, you should always customize it for your work and company.
From the Wall Street Journal online:
You also want to choose the correct template for the letter. For example, some include salary requirements, while others work better for the creative field.
Some sources say that if you start a cover letter by saying you're applying for the X job you saw in X's ad, it's a waste of text. Of course, you must indicate the position you are applying for. But make sure you stand out when you say why you want the job and why it's the right one for you.
As Time.com writes:
You should think carefully about your opening and show your personality, but avoid corny humor. Be clear, concise and confident.
Take the time to research the company you're applying for at 5 Tips for Researching a Company Before Sitting Down for a Job Interview 5 Tips for Researching a Company Before Sitting Down for a Job Interview Employers aren't just looking for another grumpy worker to add to Your team:They want someone who is excited, motivated, and eager to contribute to the company's mission. You're not the only one interviewed, so... Read More Also, having knowledge of the company is great for when you land an interview.
As the Harvard Business Review puts it:
When you have information about the company and its needs, you can highlight your relevant skills and achievements to show why you are the person for the job.
In your final paragraph, include your contact information, express your enthusiasm, and indicate whether you plan to follow up. Monster.com offers this closing tip:
While your opening should grab their attention, your closing should also be loud and clear.
Here are additional tips to keep in mind when crafting your cover letter:
While you'll be writing your cover letter specifically for the job you want, a template can help you format 15 Business Letter Templates for Microsoft Word to save you time. 15 Business Letter Templates for Microsoft Word to save you time. Here we compiled 15 business letter templates, from letters of intent, through thank you notes, to references. These templates will communicate with confidence. Read more . This is also an important part of creating your letter so it looks clean and professional.
Microsoft Office Online has one of the best selections of cover letter templates that start with this simple design. Just swap the template text with your own.
If you want some color in your cover letter, this next one from Microsoft Office is a good option. Remember, a small amount of color is fine as long as you don't overdo it. If you prefer another color, Office also has green and blue options.
For a cover letter in response to an advertisement asking to include salary requirements, this template is ideal. The template includes the language that addresses the salary, but you can adjust it of course. This is also cleanly formatted to show your experience in relation to the job requirements.
If you're applying for a position that involves design or another creative field, you may prefer a cover letter to match, especially if you think the hiring manager expects you. It allows you to express your creativity while maintaining a professional appearance.
Perhaps you are looking for a particular style of cover letter. For example, the Dublin layout is often used for those who lack experience, while the Chicago layout is suitable for those with management experience. Each one has a different format to accompany the highlights of the style.
For eight free downloadable templates including Dublin, Chicago, Milan, and Harvard, check out ResumeGenuis' selection. You can download a complete pack of each design with various color options including helpful hints.
When what you really need is a template plus a sample with helpful text for that specific position, check out these options on Template.net. You can download cover letter templates for jobs in nursing, education, retail, technology, business development, and other fields.
The sample text is provided to help you, but remember that you can easily change it to suit your skills and experience.
Hopefully, these tips and templates will help you find a great cover letter that will get you into an interview. 3 Tips That Will Eliminate Job Interview Anxiety 3 Tips That Will Eliminate Job Interview Anxiety The hardest part of getting the job is usually the job interview. These three tips will help you get out of the process unscathed and with a new job. Read more . Just remember to use the card to tell your story, briefly but confidently.
Do you have cover letter writing tips you'd like to share? Maybe you wrote something specific that helped you stand out. Or maybe you've read a cover letter that blew your mind. Share your thoughts with us below!
