How to write the perfect cover letter

So, you’ve already read Blakeney Point’s ‘How to make a Compelling CV’ but now you need to know how to make sure your cover letter is up to the mark.

They say you should never judge a book by its cover; yet, the truth is so many candidates will be judged on the impression they make in their covering letters.

Even the worthiest of candidates can end up in the reject pile all thanks to a sloppy cover letter. 

While here at Blakeney Point, we take the time to get to know each candidate and take away the many stresses of a job hunt it is still important for you to understand how to write the perfect cover letter.

What is a covering letter?

A covering letter (or just as likely: covering email) is a letter of introduction addressing the hiring manager explaining why you are the best fit for the job.

But a covering letter can also do a lot for you as a job seeker. It is your first opportunity and the best chance to grab the readers attention by telling them, in a more personable way, why they should hire you.

The best cover letters are the ones that have been tailored to the job you are applying for. With more space to blow your own trumpet than on your CV, you can highlight the specific strengths that make you well-suited to the role you are applying for.

It’s also a great place to talk about the company you’re applying to work for and why you’re interested in working with them. Not only does the hiring manager want to get to know you, but they also want to see that you have taken the time to get to know them.

A little bit of research into the company values, and how that aligns with you, can make all the difference.

What to include in your cover letter

Although writing a letter can be daunting if you are not familiar with the process – there is nothing to worry about. The key is having a solid structure so that the reader can clearly understand what you are telling them.

Introduction

As with any interaction, it starts with introductions. Let the reader know all the details upfront: if you are responding to an advert, let them know which position you are applying for, or if you are sending your CV over speculatively, explain why you are applying to this particular company. Hiring managers read a lot of covering letters in a day and so it is best to keep your introduction clear and concise.

Experience and skills

Arguably the most important section, this is where you sell yourself to the hiring manager on the other side. You need to explain how your skills are suitable for the advertised role. The best way to do this is by looking through the job description posted by the company and using that as a structure. Be careful not to exaggerate any of your skills in your cover letter that will be unsupported by your CV.

The company 

Show your passion for the company you are applying to work for with facts. Do your research and mention something about the company you are impressed with.

It is also important to still bring yourself into this section by talking about how well you would fit into your role with them and the contributions, success and value you would bring.

Signing off 

Be positive! End your letter by explaining you would love the chance to meet the people you are applying to, discuss your suitability and thank them for their time.

Having spent some time understanding how to write the perfect cover letter, you might be thinking it’s time to update your CV. You can read our advice on how to write a compelling CV on our website at www.blakeneypointsearch.com/post/how-to-make-a-compelling-cv

If you have any questions about how Blakeney Point Search & Selection can help you find your next job role, please feel free to drop one of our team members a message!

To keep up to date with our latest job postings, follow our Linkedin page at linkedin.com/company/blakeney-point-search-selection 

‍