How to Write a Standout Cover Letter

In a tough job market, it is now more important than ever to make a strong first impression. When applying to jobs, your cover letter is often your very first impression, and it plays a significant role in determining whether you receive an interview.

Here are a few tips for crafting a strong cover letter:

• Put yourself in the recruiter or hiring manager’s shoes: Remember that there are typically thousands of applicants for the same role, so make the recruiter/hiring manager’s life easy. 

• Highlight your most relevant work experience at the top of your cover letter. This will save them time if they’re skimming.

• Keep it brief—one page max.

• Be specific (while also being concise) when highlighting relevant projects or initiatives that you’ve worked on in the past. If necessary, add a bit of context that explains how it is relevant to the opportunity/organization you’re applying to. 

• Include your contact information, ideally hyperlinked if the form/format allows.

• Be professional: This sounds like a no-brainer, but it’s important. Maintain a professional (but not stiff) tone. Cover letters are not the place for jokes. Save those for an interview, where you can read the room.

• Make an impression: While you’re not trying to crack jokes in your cover letter, aim to include one fact about yourself and your employment history that will make you memorable—something beyond your relevant work history. This could be something you do in your free time that relates to the company’s products/services or a volunteer experience that shows your passion for the organization’s impact area. The best candidates have both relevant work experience and a little je ne sais quoi. 

• Dot your i’s and cross your t’s: Read through your cover letter out loud and use spell check. Spell check often misses things! 

If you’re still seeking extra support with your cover letter, email us at hi@seconddraftstudio.com. Good luck!