Not Just Another Cover Letter: A Guide to Writing One Recruiters Will Actually Read

If your resume is the party, think of your cover letter as the invitation. In line with all great invitations, your cover letter should give more details about the main event, that’s you, and catch the reader’s attention and interest.

First, why even write a cover letter? There are three reasons why you should write one:

• The employer requires it: This is easy to miss if you’re not following directions. An employer will always let you know if one is needed, and will generally let you know that a resume unaccompanied with a cover letter will not be considered. Make sure you read the instructions (and the fine print) in the job description.

• You’re switching careers: If you are going from one industry to another or one role within an industry to another, you’ll need a cover letter. This will let the employer know that you are serious about your career path and they should consider all the transferable skills you bring to the table.

• You REALLY want the job: Think of a cover letter as an opportunity to speak to the employer. Including a cover letter when it is optional will help your application stand out. Make sure that your cover letter is tailored to the position and company you’re applying to.

If any of these reasons resonate with you, it’s time to start crafting a cover letter that recruiters will actually read. Follow these steps and tips:

• Personalization is key! Don’t send out the same cover letter out to every job. You’ll want to do more than editing out the name of the company and role. This is where you’ll want to “speak the company’s language” by using the job description to help guide how you can weave your skills in with the qualifications that the employer is seeking. Every job description speaks a different language and highlights different qualities, so make sure your cover letter is including those keywords. Don’t just repeat what’s already on your resume.

• Change that first paragraph. Bring your personality, style, and story into the introduction. Those standard intros are outdated and expected, and it probably doesn’t showcase who you are. Consider opening with your passion for the industry, role, or a personal story that relates to the job. This is where you grab and keep the reader’s attention.

• Follow a storytelling format. A well-written cover letter should follow a clear story line.

  • Section 1: Who are you? Why are you writing this letter? Why should the reader keep reading?

  • Section 2: What do you offer/ bring to the table? What makes you a good fit for the role? What other skills do you have? Include roles and responsibilities not mentioned in your resume here too, if applicable.

  • Section 3: Wrap it up and give thanks.

A good way to think about your cover letter before writing is thinking about how you’d answer the question “tell me about yourself” in an interview. A great cover letter will hit on the main points of who you are as a person/professional and why you are most qualified for the role.

Happy writing!