You also need to show why you are interested in the specific job for which you are applying. What do you find interesting about the organization? How do you personally relate to what they do? 6. You need to explain why you really want to work with that specific company. Too many cover letters omit this important component. Explain why you think the organization is cool Start and end your cover letter with “thank you.” A little bit of courtesy goes a long way! 5. Focus on telling us why you’re the right fit for the job. No need to repeat your name, that your resume is enclosed, that you’re applying for the job, or that references are available upon request. You don’t want to brag, but you do want to position yourself as a problem solver. Use the cover letter to show your understanding of those needs and how you can help. Focus on the employer’s needsĪlways remember that companies hire because they have specific needs. This is the easiest way to ensure your application ends up in the “no” pile. Do not simply insert the company name and job title into an obvious form letter. That’s because you need to customize each cover letter for the specific employer. No generic cover letters!Ĭlients often ask me to write an “all-purpose” cover letter, and are surprised when I decline. Here are my suggestions for how to write a cover letter that employers actually want to read: 1. In doing so, they miss a strategic opportunity to showcase their ability to communicate and their enthusiasm for the job.ĭon’t make this rookie mistake! If you want to really connect with a recruiter, your application needs to include a solid cover letter.

What happens to applications with bad cover letters? They end up being tossed.Īpplicants often make the same basic mistake with their cover letter they use it simply to rehash the same skills and experiences listed on their resume. I’ll be honest… most of them aren’t very good. As a recruiter, I’ve read thousands and thousands of cover letters.

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