What is the purpose of a cover letter

Purpose of a cover letter

A cover letter intends to provide a prospective employer with a more comprehensive overview of your achievements and a sense of what you will offer to the organization. As a result, understanding how to write a cover letter is a valuable quality for all job applicants. A few employers may not review these cover letters, but you cannot know which ones will. Additionally, many headhunters will utilize cover letters to distinguish between applicants with comparable qualifications, which is yet another reason why you should feature one with each resume you submit to any company.

If you're still unsure regarding the purpose of a cover letter when seeking a job, consider: According to findings, 45 percent of applicants skip the cover letter completely. It indicates that if you compose one, you will be one step ahead of nearly half of your competitors.

Significance of cover letter appearance

Although the recruiter does not view your cover letter, a brief look reveals your attention to detail or you have spent no time and effort behind developing a standout cover letter. It also allows a hiring manager to see your formal communication abilities, which are among the most desirable soft skills in today's business environment, according to research. Things like correctly structuring and highlighting the document stand out right away. Submitting a resume with an improper cover letter is equivalent to presenting yourself for an interview in a torn or wrinkled outfit. A well-prepared cover letter can allow you to make a strong first impression on the potential employer, so knowing how to write a cover letter is an integral skill to master. Utilizing our HipCV cover letter template is a convenient method to ensure the proper format and it makes it easy to prepare the document faster.

Guide on cover letter or letter of interest basics, format of a cover letter template.

Pointers for writing a cover letter

When writing a cover letter, a little company research and planning will give you a great start. Once you have a proper understanding of the organizational requirements, it is simpler to create a document that demonstrates how you can address those needs.

• By observing the job ad, you can become acquainted with the business and recognize how your qualifications align with the position you want. Then, in the introductory section, start your text with a statement that discusses how your area of expertise will match the organizational needs.
• Keep it brief and to the point. Make your cover letter concise so that the hiring manager can quickly check it and assess your credentials.
• Be optimistic and excited. It is acceptable to express your excitement for the job, but maintain the terminology in your cover letter formally. Also, refrain from incorporating any words and expressions that have negative associations.
• When relevant, use a bold font or bullet lists to attract attention to core points. It also tends to make it convenient to read the cover letter. If somebody in the corporation did refer you or guide you to approach the HR manager, then drop your name earlier in the letter.

What are the components of a cover letter

Though the cover letter content varies, all cover letters require some core aspects to fulfill their purpose efficiently and highlight the prime reasons to recruit you. They must also adhere to a proper format to ensure that your details are well-structured and easily available to businesses. An excellent cover letter promotes your skills through a reasonable advancement of ideas. Each cover letter must have seven sections to meet the hiring manager's expectations and illustrate your strengths and talents.

• Header. Every cover letter begins with a header containing your contact details. To establish uniformity throughout the entire application, individuals use the same header as their resume for the cover letter. A header irrespective of the structure must begin with your name and contain your email, phone details, and home address on different lines. If the details are appropriate to the job, some individuals provide links to their online portfolio or social media. If there is space on the page, add the employer's or corporation's name and contact details. If sending a hard copy, individuals generally involve company contact details on their cover letter, and this portion of the header is voluntary.
• Salutation. Your cover letter's salutation is your initial opportunity to stand out from the crowd by acknowledging the appropriate person. To convey that you have put work and consideration into your application, check the recruiter's name for every position. This data is commonly included in job postings, on the corporate website, or by contacting their office and asking. If you can't identify a particular name to address your letter to, you can personalize the greeting by mentioning the division with which you'll be working. When the employer's name is unavailable, a classic greeting of 'Dear Hiring Manager' is reasonable. Maintain your salutation brief and formal, and use suitable designations or titles as necessary.
• Introduction. The initial paragraph of your cover letter must include basic information about yourself and why you want the position. Add the job title you want and a brief summary of why you'd be a perfect fit for this role and why you're enthusiastic about it. You can explain how you learned about the job and the reasons to apply for the job, which is a particularly effective approach if another worker did refer you to it. Examine the job advertisement for the essential skills needed for the position, and utilize your opening paragraph to elaborate on how you display those attributes.
• Qualifications. After the introduction, concentrate on your background and credentials. It enables you to catch the company's attention right away by describing how you can enhance their team. Give more specifics about the relevant data on your resume, and emphasize how your experiences are relevant to the job. Provide narratives about successful jobs or scenarios that demonstrate how you solved issues and perform well at work. Mention how you made a contribution to the progress of previous projects and emphasize the significance of your actions.
• Values and objectives. The following paragraph must show that you comprehend the organization's values and have done your homework on the role. Concentrate on how your objectives correspond with theirs and how they relate to the aspects of the corporate culture that you appreciate. Indicate how your job can contribute, both your future and the requirements of the hiring manager. This segment of your cover letter enables you to demonstrate not only your ability to perform the job well but also your capability to work successfully with others and generate a positive outlook on the workplace.
• Call to action. The closing paragraph must sum up your enthusiasm and propose the next stages for moving forwards with the application. Thank the recruiter for reviewing your application and articulate interest in discussing the role further or scheduling an interview. Your cover letter must concentrate on how you can help the organization, so emphasize the ability and expertise you intend to offer to their team.
• Signature. Finish with a formal closing word and your signature or typed name. If you're sending your cover letter via electronic mail, ensure you don't provide an unessential email signature. A few suitable ending terms are;

1. Respectfully
2. Thank you
3. Sincerely
4. Best regards
5. Faithfully
6. Kind regards

FAQs Cover letter

Q1. What is a letter of interest?

A job seeker submits a letter of interest to a corporation where they want to work. The letter expresses the sender's desire to work for the business, introduces the sender, and typically requests details about job prospects. 

Q2. What is a cover letter?

The job applicant submits the cover letter as part of their application for a specific job. A cover letter must accompany the candidate's resume and explain why the candidate is a perfect match for the job opening.

Q3. How to distinguish between a cover letter and a letter of interest?

The primary aim of a letter of interest is to express the sender's willingness to work for the corporation and to request if there are any job vacancies now or in the long term. A letter of interest is sometimes utilized to request extra details or possibilities concerning the job vacancies that are already advertised.

A cover letter is valuable for applying for a particular job opening at a corporation.

What are the three main purposes of a cover letter

A strong cover letter can be a powerful tool in your job search arsenal. Here are three of its main purposes;

1. Make a Great First Impression:  Your resume is a list of your qualifications, but a cover letter lets you introduce yourself and your enthusiasm for the position in a more personal way. It's your chance to grab the hiring manager's attention and convince them to take a closer look at your resume.
2. Highlight Your Skills and Experience:  Your resume can only tell part of the story. A cover letter allows you to elaborate on specific skills and experiences that are most relevant to the job you're applying for. You can use real-world examples to showcase how you've applied these skills in the past and achieved positive results.
3. Show Your Passion and Fit:  A cover letter is your opportunity to express your genuine interest in the company and the specific role. You can demonstrate that you've done your research and understand what the company does and the qualities they're looking for in a candidate. By showcasing your enthusiasm and how you align with the company culture, you can set yourself apart from other applicants.

Why is it important to write a cover letter

There are a couple of reasons why a cover letter is important in the job application process;

1. Standing Out: In a competitive job market, a well-written cover letter can be what separates you from the pile of resumes. It allows you to personalize your application and showcase your writing and communication skills
2. Going Beyond the Resume: Your resume lists your qualifications, but a cover letter lets you tell the story behind them. You can elaborate on relevant skills and experiences, and demonstrate how you've achieved success in the past.
3. Showing Enthusiasm: A cover letter is your chance to express your genuine interest in the company and the specific role. It shows that you've put in the effort to learn about the company and that you're not just applying to any job opening.

What is the important point in a cover letter

The key focus of a cover letter can vary depending on the circumstances, but two significant aspects stand out;

1. Illustrating Value Proposition: This entails clearly articulating to the hiring manager why you're an ideal match for both the position and the organization. This involves emphasizing relevant skills, experiences, and accomplishments that demonstrate your potential impact, tailored specifically to the job requirements.
2. Conveying Enthusiasm and Alignment: Your cover letter serves as a platform to convey genuine excitement about the opportunity and to convey why you would be a valuable asset to their team. This necessitates conducting thorough research on the company and the role of conveying how your objectives align with theirs and speaking to their mission effectively.

What is the cover letter written for

A cover letter is a letter you write when you apply for a job. It goes with your resume. The point is to introduce yourself professionally and talk about your skills and experience. This helps the person hiring to get interested in you and want to know more by reading your resume. Here's why you write a cover letter;

1. Introduce Yourself and Your Interest: It's a way to say who you are and why you want the job. You can show you're excited about the position and the company.
2. Bridge the Gap: It connects your resume to the job you're applying for. You can mention the skills and experiences from your resume that fit what the job needs.
3. Showcase Communication Skills: A good cover letter shows you can write well. This is important because many jobs need good communication.
4. Express Why You're a Good Fit: You can explain why you're a good match for the company and the job. This shows you understand what the company wants and values.

What are the 4 key elements of a cover letter

A strong cover letter has four vital parts;

1. Introduction: This part grabs the hiring manager's attention and shows you did your homework. If you can, address the hiring manager by name and mention the job you want. Say something quick about why you're interested in the company or the job.
2. Skills and Experience: Here, you connect your qualifications to what the job needs. Talk briefly about 2-3 skills or experiences that fit the job. Use examples and numbers to show how you've done well in past jobs.
3. Why You're a Good Fit: Explain why you'd fit in well with the company and the job. Show you know about the company's goals and values. Say how excited you are about the opportunity and how your goals match theirs.
4. Next Steps: Finish your cover letter with a clear next step. Thank the hiring manager for reading. Say you'd like an interview. Give your contact info so they can get in touch easily.

Do cover letters really make a difference

Cover letters can make a difference in your job application, but their impact depends on a few factors;

They can help you stand out:  In a competitive job market, a strong cover letter can be a great way to differentiate yourself from other applicants, especially if many applications are just relying on a resume. It allows you to showcase your writing skills and personalize your application to the specific role and company.

They show your enthusiasm and fit: A cover letter is your chance to express your genuine interest in the opportunity and demonstrate why you'd be a great addition to the team. This can be especially important for employers who are looking for candidates who are passionate about the company and the role.

They may not be required:  While cover letters are still seen as valuable by many employers, some companies, particularly those that rely heavily on online application systems, may not explicitly require them. However, it's generally advisable to submit a cover letter whenever possible, even if it's not mandatory.

They might not always get read: With the increasing volume of applications, hiring managers may not have time to read every single cover letter they receive. This is especially true for initial screenings. However, a well-written cover letter can still increase your chances of getting your resume noticed and moving forward in the application process.

Here's a quick summary;

1. Can be a great way to stand out
2. Show passion and fit for the role
3. Not always required, but generally recommended
4. May not always get read, but can still improve your chances

What are the five key points of a cover letter

Here are five important things to include in a cover letter;

1. Introduction: Get the hiring manager's attention and show you did your homework. If possible, address them by name and mention the job you want. Say something quick about why you're excited about the company or the job.
2. Skills and Experience: Connect your qualifications to what the job needs. Talk briefly about 2-3 skills or experiences that fit the job. Use examples and numbers to show how you've done well in past jobs.
3. Why You're a Good Fit: Explain why you'd fit in well with the company and the job. Show you know about the company's goals and values. Say how excited you are about the opportunity and how your goals match theirs.
4. Next Steps: Finish with a clear next step. Thank the hiring manager for reading. Say you'd like an interview. Give your contact info so they can get in touch easily.
5. Proofreading and Formatting: Make sure your cover letter looks professional and doesn't have mistakes. Check carefully for typos and grammar errors. Use a clean layout and easy-to-read fonts.

Does having a cover letter increase chances

Having a good cover letter can help you get an interview, but it's not a sure thing. Here's why it's helpful;

1. Standing Out: A strong cover letter can make you stand out from other applicants. It lets you personalize your application and show off your writing and communication skills. This is especially important if most applications just have a resume.
2. Showing Your Value: With a cover letter, you can talk more about your skills and experiences. You can explain how you've used these skills before and done well, showing how you can help the company.
3. Expressing Your Interest: It's your chance to show you're really interested in the job and the company. You can show you know about the company and what they want in an employee. This can make a difference for employers who want someone enthusiastic and interested.
4. Not Always Needed, But Good to Have: Some companies don't ask for cover letters, but it's usually a good idea to send one if you can. It shows you're serious about the job.
5. Depends on if It Gets Read: Sometimes, with lots of applications, hiring managers might not read every cover letter, especially at first. But a good one can still help your resume get noticed and move forward.

What is in a cover letter example

Here's an example of a cover letter that incorporates the key elements;

What is the first paragraph of a cover letter

The first paragraph of a cover letter is crucial. It's where you can capture the hiring manager's attention and make them want to keep reading. Here's what a strong opening paragraph usually has;

1. A strong start: Begin with something interesting to catch the reader's interest. This could be mentioning a specific thing about the company or job that excites you, or a brief accomplishment that's relevant.
2. State your purpose: Quickly mention the job title and how you found out about it, if relevant.
3. Highlight a relevant skill or experience: Briefly talk about a key skill or experience that matches the job description.

Here are two examples to help;

Example 1 (Starting with Specific Interest)

"I was excited to see the [Job Title] opening on [Platform]. Being passionate about [Industry/Cause that relates to the company's mission], I've admired [Company Name]'s work in [Specific area of interest within the company's work]."

Example 2 (Beginning with Achievement)

"In my previous job at [Previous Company], I achieved [Quantifiable accomplishment related to a job requirement]. Now, I'm eager to use my skills in [Relevant skill] to help [Company Name] succeed in [Area where the company does well]."

Make sure to keep this first paragraph short and impactful, ideally around 3-4 sentences long.

How a cover letter should look

A good cover letter should have a professional format that's easy to read and looks nice. Here's what you should include;

Formatting

1. Use a standard business letter format with clear sections.
2. Keep 1-inch margins on all sides.
3. Use a professional font like Arial or Times New Roman, size 10 or 12.
4. Align all text to the left (no justification).
5. Leave a double space between paragraphs.

Content

1. Header: Put your contact info (name, phone number, email) and the date at the top.
2. Salutation: If you can, address the hiring manager by name (like "Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name," or use a neutral option like "Dear [Hiring Manager name]").
3. First Paragraph: Start with a strong opening, mention the job title and where you found it, and talk about a skill or experience that fits the job.
4. Body Paragraphs (2-3): Talk more about your qualifications. Mention 2-3 skills or experiences that match the job. Use examples and numbers to show how you've done well before. In another paragraph, say why you're a good fit for the company and the job. Show you know about the company and connect your goals to theirs.
5. Closing Paragraph: Finish with a call to action. Thank the hiring manager for reading. Say you'd like an interview and give your contact info. Sign off with "Sincerely," and then type your name.

Should you give examples in cover letter

Including examples in your cover letter is crucial. It's one of the best ways to make your skills and experience stand out for the hiring manager. Here's why it's so important;

1. Show, Don't Tell: Simply saying you have a skill isn't as convincing as showing how you've used it. Providing specific examples demonstrates how you've applied that skill in real situations and achieved positive results. This gives a clearer picture of what you can bring to the company.
2. Quantify Your Achievements: Adding numbers and data to your examples makes them more impactful. Instead of just saying you "increased sales," you could say you "implemented a new marketing strategy that led to a 15% increase in sales within the first quarter." Numbers help solidify your achievements and show your ability to measure success.
3. Tailor to the Job Description: Don't use generic examples. Choose ones that directly relate to the job's requirements and responsibilities mentioned in the job description. This shows you understand the role and have the necessary experience to excel in it.

Here are some tips for including strong examples in your cover letter;

1. Focus on Relevant Achievements: Pick examples that highlight skills and experiences directly related to the job you're applying for.
2. STAR Method: Format your examples by applying the STAR approach. Describe the situation, your task, the actions you took, and the positive results you achieved.
3. Quantify Your Successes: Use numbers and data to demonstrate the impact of your actions. Increased sales percentages, improved metrics, or completing projects under budget are all great examples.
4. Keep it Concise: Aim for 2-3 sentences per example. Your cover letter shouldn't be too long, so focus on the most impactful examples that showcase your key strengths.

How does a cover letter complement your resume

A cover letter and your resume team up to create a strong job application. Here's how they support each other;

Resume: Displays Skills and Experience (The What)

1. Your resume lists your qualifications, such as work history, education, and skills, in detail.
2. It uses bullet points and specific keywords to give a clear and concise overview of your professional background.
3. It's easy for hiring managers to scan, especially when they have many applications to review.

Cover Letter: Adds Depth (The Why and How)

1. Your cover letter tells a story alongside your resume.
2. It lets you explain how your skills and experiences relate to the job you want.
3. Using storytelling and examples, you can show how you've made a difference in past roles.
4. You can express your excitement for the job and the company, showing why you'd fit in with their culture.

Think of it like this

1. Your resume is a record of your achievements.
2. Your cover letter brings those achievements to life, giving context and highlighting their value.

Here's how they team up

1. Your resume grabs the hiring manager's attention with your qualifications.
2. Your cover letter encourages them to explore further and discover how your skills and experience could benefit their company.

Should a cover letter be detailed

A cover letter should be concise and impactful, rather than overly detailed. It typically ranges from one-half to a full page in length, ideally on the shorter side.

Here's why being concise matters

1. Busy Hiring Managers: They often receive numerous applications and might not have time for lengthy cover letters. A concise letter gets straight to the point, emphasizing your most relevant qualifications.
2. Emphasize Quality: Instead of trying to include everything about yourself, focus on the key aspects that make you a strong candidate for the specific job.
3. Attention Span: A shorter letter is more likely to be read in its entirety, leaving a lasting impression.

However, being concise doesn't mean sacrificing quality. Even though it's brief, your cover letter should still;

1. Showcase your value proposition: Clearly demonstrate why you're a perfect fit for the role and the company.
2. Highlight relevant skills and experience: Briefly mention 2-3 key qualifications that directly match the job requirements. Use specific examples to illustrate your impact.
3. Express genuine enthusiasm: Show excitement for the opportunity and the company.

Here are some tips for crafting a concise yet impactful cover letter;

1. Customize it for the job: Avoid using a generic cover letter. Tailor it to each position you apply for, emphasizing relevant skills and experiences.
2. Focus on strengths: Highlight 2-3 achievements or skills that align best with the job description and highlight your value.
3. Use strong action verbs: Dynamic verbs make your writing more compelling.
4. Proofread: Ensure your cover letter is error-free by checking for typos and grammatical mistakes.

What are the don'ts of writing a cover letter

A cover letter can greatly enhance your job search but there are several mistakes to avoid. Here are some essential "don'ts" when writing a cover letter;

1. Generic Content: Avoid using a one-size-fits-all cover letter. Customize it for each job and company by emphasizing relevant skills and experiences that match the position. Demonstrate your knowledge of the company's mission and values through research.
2. Repetition of Resume Details: Your cover letter shouldn't duplicate the information in your resume. Instead, use it to elaborate on specific skills and experiences, and explain their relevance to the job.
3. Informal Language: Maintain a professional tone throughout your cover letter. Refrain from using slang, overly enthusiastic language, or emojis.
4. Typos and Grammar Errors: Carefully proofread your cover letter before submitting it. Mistakes in spelling and grammar can create a negative impression and suggest carelessness.
5. Excessive Length: Keep your cover letter concise and impactful, preferably one page or less. Hiring managers are typically busy and may not have time for lengthy letters.
6. Negativity or Excuses: Avoid using your cover letter to justify employment gaps, criticize previous employers, or make excuses for any perceived shortcomings.
7. Unwarranted Salary Expectations: Unless explicitly requested, refrain from mentioning your salary expectations in your cover letter. Focus instead on highlighting your qualifications and value to the employer.
8. Emphasizing Needs over Value: Don't dwell too much on what you seek from the job. Concentrate on how your skills and experience can contribute to the company's success.
9. Unprofessional Email Address: Use a professional email address for all cover letter correspondence. Avoid using informal nicknames or addresses.
10. Neglecting a Call to Action: Conclude your cover letter with a clear call to action. Thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration, and express your eagerness for an interview opportunity.

How do you not say I in a cover letter

There are several strategies to avoid using "I" in your cover letter while still effectively conveying your skills and experience. Here are some techniques;

1. Focus on Action Verbs: Use powerful action verbs to highlight your capabilities. For example, instead of saying "I increased sales by 15%," you can write "Developed and implemented a marketing strategy that resulted in a 15% sales increase."
2. Use the "You" Perspective: Shift the focus to the employer's needs. For example, say "A individual with expertise in [Your ability] is what your organization is looking for. My experience in [Specific experience] has allowed me to [achievement related to the skill]."
3. Nouns and Noun Phrases: Describe your skills and accomplishments using nouns and noun phrases. For example, instead of saying "I am a highly motivated individual," you could say "My strong work ethic and dedication have driven me to..."
4. Results-Oriented Language: Mention your contributions using numbers and figures. For instance, "Successfully managed a team of 10 developers" becomes "Led a team of 10 developers, resulting in the on-time completion of all projects within budget."
5. Passive Voice: While generally discouraged in active writing, passive voice can be used strategically to avoid "I" in some cases. For example, "A new marketing strategy was implemented, leading to a 20% customer growth rate" (be careful not to overuse passive voice).

Here are some examples showcasing the difference;

Using "I"

I am a highly motivated and results-oriented professional with 5 years of experience in project management.

Without "I"

With a strong work ethic and a proven track record of success, I have 5 years of experience in project management. (This sentence rephrases to avoid "I" in the first instance, but it can still be improved using the above techniques.)

What are two things that should always be in a cover letter

Two essential elements that should always be included in a cover letter are;

1. Introduction: This should clearly state the purpose of the letter, including the position you are applying for and how you learned about it. Additionally, it's beneficial to briefly mention what attracts you to the role or the company.
2. Highlight of Relevant Skills and Experiences: Your cover letter should showcase the skills and experiences that make you a strong candidate for the position. Choose 2-3 key qualifications from the job description and provide specific examples of how you've demonstrated these skills in previous roles. This section should align closely with the requirements of the job you're applying for.

What is the golden tip for a cover letter

There isn't a single magic formula for a cover letter, but here are two effective strategies that can significantly enhance your chances;

1. Customize and Highlight Value Proposition: Personalize your cover letter to the particular job and company you're applying to, avoiding generic templates. Emphasize the skills and experiences from your resume that directly match the job requirements. Conduct research on the company to understand their mission, values, and challenges. Then, demonstrate how your skills and experience can address these challenges and contribute to the company's success. By tailoring your cover letter and showcasing your value proposition, you can persuade the hiring manager that you're not just another applicant but someone who can truly make a difference on their team.
2. Compelling Opening with Hook and Achievements: The initial paragraph of your cover letter is crucial for capturing the hiring manager's attention.

Begin with a hook to intrigue them, possibly by mentioning something specific about the company or role that excites you.

1. State the job title and how you found out about it.
2. Highlight a relevant skill or experience along with a specific achievement that illustrates your capabilities.