When I recently asked the members of my Facebook group to share the questions they have about job searching, application etiquette came out top. Even though technology has come on leaps and bounds, changing the way we apply and the way we work, there still is a lot of uncertainty around what to include within CVs, application forms and cover letters. So, today I will use my decade (plus) of experience to share what you should include in your cover letter.
When I first entered the world of recruitment, the suggested content of a cover letter had a practical reason. CVs were often posted or even faxed (remember fax machines!) and should the cover letter get separated from the CV, you still wanted a document that could show you and your skills off! Nearly twenty years on from the early days of my career, keeping this in mind can still help you streamline this document!
Whilst career coaching clients that work with me know that your CV is an ever-developing document, the cover letter is the document that most people consider needs to be personalised towards the role you are applying for. It’s the place where you show the hiring manager or the recruiter (or both) exactly how you match their requirements (both through your professional experience and your personality) and to encourage them to delve deeper into your CV. Even at a tie where your application may be screened by an applicant tracking system, having a cover letter can provide essential word count to reinforce your suitability for the role?
I am assuming you have already read my blog to help you create a CV that really shines? If not, then head over and find out what the common CV myths are (and how to correct them) Now you are confident with your CV, you can start getting the key things in your Cover Letter:
Be Concise
The cover letter is about ease for the reader and impact, so ideally no more than one-page. This is a synopsis of who you are and why you are suitable; consider the CV the book and this is the blub!
Be Individual
You need to provide information that is relevant to the role. So look at the advert and the person specification and detail where your skills, experience, values and personality meet their requirements. REALLY narrow this down, using the language within their advert to help the reader so the connections!
Be flattering
The biggest issue I have seen in the past with cover letters is the applicant is highlighting how this role or business can help them professionally or to advance their career. You need to tap into the ego of the reader and get them to understand what you like about the organisation and how you can help them deliver their product or service.
Be honest
This is the place to talk about the areas of your life or intentions that don’t always have space in a CV. This could be your plans to relocate, your education aspirations or to overcome any objections you think they may have.
Be accurate
When we are writing about ourselves, we can often miss spelling and grammar issues; ultimately, we know what we want to write! Sometimes the built-in editors on Word don’t pick up an issue like “wrong word but the correct spelling”. So use tools like Grammarly (free) or Hemmingway (paid), or ask a friend or family member to read it for you.
Remember, like your CV or Application Form, your cover letter is there to sell you to the employer. You want them to clearly see how you match their requirements; don’t make it difficult for them! Over to you now, just follow this guide to get your polished cover letter ready for your next application!
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I’m a straight talking, practical and experienced coach helping clients navigate the tricky waters of returning to work, career changes and professional development. The Balance Collective is a social enterprise focused on improving the lives of parents, by working together to build inner confidence and promote a healthy work/life balance. Isn’t it time to you had a career to enjoy not endure?
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Clara Wilcox is a straight talking, practical and experienced coach helping clients navigate the tricky waters of returning to work, career changes and professional development. The Balance Collective is a social enterprise focused on improving the lives of parents, by working together to build inner confidence and promote a healthy work/life balance.
