10 tips for a successful cover letter

Make a difference. That is the goal of each candidate when writing their cover letter. Follow the guide.

1. What is the purpose of a cover letter?
A cover letter is the first contact you make with recruiters. Take the time to refine your writing because it's your key to getting a job interview. Keep in mind that, when it comes to a spontaneous application, nobody is expecting you. You must be convincing so that recruiters want to meet you.

2. Is a cover letter essential?
Opinions are divided on this question. Some HR managers say they never read cover letters because they often find them bland and unconvincing. Others, on the contrary, frown upon sending a CV alone. "Always accompany your CV with a cover letter," advises Dominique Perez in The Guide to CVs and Cover Letters. "Its presence is not always essential, but its absence will be noticed." If you are sending your application by email, attach your CV and your letter and write a short presentation text in the body of the email.

3. How long should it be?
A cover letter should be short and impactful. It should not exceed one page so as not to discourage recruiters. So don't detail your career path, choose two or three experiences related to the position you want and develop them.

4. How to start it?
The hook is crucial. It's the first impression the recruiter gets of you. Avoid clichés like: "Very interested in your company, I wish to join your department." Opt for a short and direct hook that will make your reader want to read the rest of the letter. Don't hesitate to be original.
How to organize my cover letter?
Daniel Porot, a specialist in career management and job searching, recommends writing your cover letter using the "you-me-us" model:

• You: Show the company that you know its activity and values well. Use concrete examples (a group achievement, an interview given by a company member...). Do not exceed one paragraph.
• Me: Talk about your background and achievements without being exhaustive.
• Us: End your letter by showing the company that you want to put your skills at their service.

5. How to address a company?
You must absolutely personalize your application. Don't copy and paste, only changing the company name, because the specifics of each company are different. Similarly, flattery is useless. Starting your letter with "your prestigious company has revolutionized the world of..." will not help you get an interview. Favor concrete and striking facts.

6. How to talk about yourself?
Be precise and concrete. Give examples, if possible quantified, of your achievements. Facts are more effective than long speeches. To do this, avoid verbs like "I think," "I imagine," or "I can," instead opt for action verbs like "I do" or "I achieved." Similarly, don't hesitate to use the first person singular. You must be confident: "Don't behave like a job seeker but rather like a service provider," says Daniel Porot.

7. Who should I address my letter to?
Addressing the right person is one of the essential keys to success. Your letter must be personalized as much as possible. If you don't want it to end up directly in the trash, find out who is in charge of recruitment. "Many people contact HR departments or recruitment agencies to submit their applications. However, to optimize your chances of an interview, you need to go to the source. Write directly to your future superior or, if you are applying to an SME, send your application to the director or main shareholder of the company," advises Daniel Porot.
Also check with the companies you are applying to to find out if they prefer you to apply by email or by mail.

8. Should I write a handwritten letter?
Most HR managers today prefer to have a letter typed on a computer: clearer and more airy, they are easier to read and allow your reader to save time.

9. What should I pay attention to?
Spelling mistakes are unacceptable in a cover letter. To put all the chances on your side, have one or more people proofread it. If no one is available, read your letter aloud: you will more easily notice syntax errors. 

Lexpress.fr

Published on March 12, 2012.

Posted online on March 19, 2012.