Most of us want to attract additional recruiter’s attention to a resume. To make a good impression on him/her and increase the chance of getting a job offer, an applicant needs to draw up a competent cover letter. It’s advisable always to write it when responding to a vacancy, but in some cases, it’s merely necessary.
When is an introductory letter required?
Sometimes in the requirements for the vacancy, the employer writes about the need for a letter of introduction when responding to a job. Some recruiters go to various tricks. For example, sometimes they want to see that a candidate has carefully read the vacancy requirements. In such a situation, they may be asked to write a specific codeword or phrase in a paper.
One needs to create it:
- If one submits an application for a vacancy in a foreign company;
- In case somebody wants to change the scope of activity.
The introductory letter’s aimed to show:
- Motivation;
- Relevant working experience;
- Competences and personal qualifications necessary for prosperous work in the position;
- Other advantages of a candidate.
Cover letter length
Today, there do not exist any clear recommendations regarding the size of a letter. It can be either short or long. The main thing is that it contains specific information that matches the requirements for the vacancy.
Cover letter style
In the vast majority of cases, a letter of introduction should follow a strict corporate format. Deviations from the rules are possible if you apply for a creative job. In this case, humor and creativity will be entirely appropriate. But here you need a sense of proportion.
The structure and content of the document
First of all, a job seeker needs to remember that a universal template for creating the document does not exist. Each time it requires an individual approach. Therefore, its creation can be partially called a creative process.
Before writing a cover letter, carefully read the text of the vacancy and try to present a perfect candidate to work in this position. Compare job requirements with the experience and focus on the relevant competencies in the letter.
To facilitate the perception of the text, the motivation letter should have a clear outline.
The structure of the written document should include the following parts:
- Greet the recruiter.
- Write what vacancy you’re applying for.
- Explain why you’re interested in this vacancy.
- Describe the relevant experience, and in the absence of it, tell about the skills and personal qualities necessary for successful work in this position. Indicate other information that may be of interest to the employer and convince him/her to opt for your candidacy. Justify why your experience and competencies will allow you to work successfully.
- Thank for attention.
- Leave a signature and provide contact details.
- If the employer writes about the need for a portfolio in the requirements of the vacancy, add links to your works.
Recommendations for improving a text
Do not duplicate the resume or part of it in the cover letter. In this case, the cover letter should complement the resume and not contradict it. Also:
- Before writing a cover letter, read about the company you want to work for;
- Do not write your biography;
- Do not ask questions such as salary levels and work schedules. Such things are worth discussing in an interview;
- Avoid formalities and punched stamps, for example: ‘Good afternoon! I’m sending my resume to the vacancy of a sales manager. Regards, Mikhail’. Or: ‘Hello! Please see my resume. Jane’. Or: ‘I’m responsible, disciplined, and stress-resistant. I strive for development and know-how to work in a team’.
Do not write about qualities that do not correspond to the vacancy or irrelevant experience. A big mistake, for example, would be to send a written document when responding to a manager job as follows:
‘Good evening! I can’t find a job as a teacher of the Spanish language, so I’m considering other proposals. One way or another related or not at all related to the Spanish language.
I’m interested in everything new. Easy to train. In the course of my work, I gained experience in sales. I also have leadership experience. I also worked a lot with money.
I’ve got excellent product presentation skills as a manager.
I think that a manager’s position or a high managerial position is suitable for me. Now I’m looking for a permanent job and am ready to consider any options.
Regards, John’.
Be honest
Demonstrate your business etiquette. Do not try to be witty, flirt with the employer, and write a cover letter in the spirit: ‘Hello! I don’t know what to write here, so I’ll write without too much modesty: I’m good. I’m waiting for an answer, Dave’. Business style does not allow familiarity.
Do not cry poor mouth and check the final version
The written document should be positive and convincing. Be careful! Always check spelling and punctuation. If you’re unsure of your knowledge, use spell and punctuation check programs or ask your family or friends to test your letter. There’s nothing worse than an illiterate text!
