10 Tips for a Persuasive Cover Letter

A good resume is not enough...The cover letter is just as important. It will allow you to stand out from other candidates. And make the recruiter want to meet you...By following StepStone's 10 tips, you'll already be on the right track!

1. Get informed
Before writing your letter, take the time to learn about the company and possibly the position you are applying for. Feel free to include some of this information in your letter.

2. Your cover letter must be personal
Adapt your cover letter to the company and the position you are applying for. Don't let someone else write it for you. Your letter should reflect your personal style and personality.

3. Adopt a direct and concise style
As its name suggests, the objective of the cover letter is to...show your motivation to the HR manager who will read it. Avoid convoluted sentences and get straight to the point. Simply and clearly explain what you are looking for and what you have to offer. Stick to the important elements, the rest will be discussed later. Also, make sure not to exceed one A4 page.

4. Focus on your strengths
Your goal is to make the recruiter want to invite you for an interview, not to scare them...Only discuss your strengths in your cover letter, and preferably from the first few sentences. Your weaknesses will be reviewed soon enough. Provided that your cover letter and resume attract enough attention...

5. Consider your resume
Don't fall into the trap of repeating all the elements of your resume in your letter! Show yourself interesting and add value to your letter by talking about yourself. However, be sure not to mention any job or training that is not in your resume. The cover letter and resume are two complementary documents that must match.

6. Find the right balance
You must of course highlight yourself and convince the recruiter that they should hire you. But don't be too arrogant. Similarly, don't go to the other extreme by underestimating yourself or appearing too modest.

7. Clearly state your motivation
This job is for you? Clearly explain to the recruiter why they should choose you over someone else. Use all your power of persuasion. Review the qualities requested in the job offer and explain how you meet them.

8. Talk about your professional goals
Don't hesitate to project yourself into the future. Present your career ambitions in a positive way. Also talk about what you have already achieved and are proud of.

9. Support your statements
Saying you are organized or have a sense of responsibility is not enough. Avoid generic terms and explain why you are organized. Illustrate your words with examples.

10. Address the right person
Do you know the name of the personnel manager? Use it in your letter by addressing them directly. If you have no idea, you can always look them up on the internet or call the organization in question to get their name.


Stepstone.lu

Posted on November 27, 2013.