How to Write a Great Cover Letter

How to Write a Great Cover Letter (18/09/2024)

Published: 18/09/2024 11:44 am

Your cover letter is a crucial part of the job application process—it’s often the first document an employer will read about you. While your resume summarises your skills and experience, a cover letter allows you to showcase your personality, explain why you’re interested in the role, and highlight key achievements that align with the job.

In Australia’s competitive job market, standing out with a compelling cover letter is essential. Here’s how to write a cover letter that grabs attention, with tips tailored for Australian job seekers.

1. Start with a Strong Introduction

The opening line of your cover letter is your chance to make a memorable first impression. Avoid starting with “I am writing to apply for [job title] at [company name].” Instead, lead with an impressive achievement that’s relevant to the role.

For example:

• Marketing Manager: “Boosting customer engagement by 40% within six months was a career highlight, and I’m excited to bring my data-driven approach and creativity to [Company Name].”
• Project Manager: “Successfully leading a cross-functional team to deliver a major project ahead of schedule and under budget was a proud moment in my career, and I’m eager to bring my leadership and problem-solving skills to [Company Name].”

These openings highlight accomplishments, which immediately show your value to the employer and encourage them to keep reading.

2. Tailor It to the Role

One of the most critical aspects of a great cover letter is ensuring it’s customised for the specific job you’re applying for. Carefully read the job description and highlight the key skills, qualifications, and experiences the employer is looking for. Then, match your own skills and experiences to these requirements.

For instance, if a job ad mentions “strong organisational skills,” you could say: “In my previous role, I developed and implemented an inventory tracking system that reduced stock discrepancies by 25%, demonstrating my ability to stay organised while improving efficiency.”

Make sure to use keywords from the job description, as many Australian companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen applications.

3. Provide Real-Life Examples

Don’t just list your skills—show how you’ve applied them successfully. Providing specific examples from your work experience helps demonstrate the value you bring to the role.

For example:

• Teamwork: “While working on a product launch, I collaborated with a team of designers, marketers, and engineers to deliver the project on time and increase sales by 15%. My ability to work well in a team environment was essential in achieving these results.”
• Problem-Solving: “At my previous company, I identified inefficiencies in our scheduling process and introduced a new system that saved the company 10 hours of admin work per week. My problem-solving skills helped streamline operations and improve team productivity.”

Using these examples not only highlights your skills but also gives the employer a clearer picture of how you operate in a work environment.

4. Address the Hiring Manager Directly

Whenever possible, personalise your cover letter by addressing it to the specific hiring manager. This shows that you’ve taken the time to research the company. If the job posting doesn’t include a name, try checking LinkedIn or the company website. If you can’t find a specific person, addressing the letter to “Dear Hiring Manager” is acceptable.

For example: “Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],”

5. Keep It Concise, Yet Impactful

Your cover letter should be clear, concise, and to the point. Aim for three to four paragraphs and no longer than one page. While it’s tempting to include everything about your career, remember that the purpose of the cover letter is to grab attention, not provide your full employment history.

Here’s a simple structure to follow:

• Introduction: State the role you’re applying for and why you’re interested.
• Body: Highlight your key skills and experiences relevant to the job, with specific examples.
• Conclusion: Thank the employer and express enthusiasm for the next steps, such as an interview.

A clear, well-structured cover letter makes it easier for hiring managers to quickly see how you fit the role.

6. Balance Soft Skills and Technical Abilities

Employers look for candidates who are not only technically qualified but also have the soft skills necessary to thrive in the workplace. While your resume may focus on your technical expertise, your cover letter is an excellent place to showcase your interpersonal skills, such as communication, teamwork, and leadership.

For example: “During a challenging project, I relied on my strong communication skills to liaise between departments, ensuring that all stakeholders were aligned on goals and expectations. This collaboration led to a 20% increase in project efficiency and improved team morale.”

Balancing both your hard and soft skills will help you present a well-rounded profile.

7. Let Your Personality Shine Through

A cover letter should reflect who you are. Employers want to see that you’re enthusiastic about the role and a good cultural fit for their company. While maintaining professionalism, you can inject a bit of your personality into your cover letter to make it stand out.

For example: “I’ve always been passionate about creative problem-solving, which is why the opportunity to work in your innovative team excites me.”

It’s important to keep the tone positive and upbeat, while still focusing on how you can contribute to the company’s success.

8. Include Your Contact Information and Digital Links

Make sure your contact information is clearly displayed. Include your phone number, email address, and a link to your LinkedIn profile or portfolio if applicable. If you have a website or online portfolio, this is the perfect opportunity to show off your work.

For example: “Please feel free to contact me at [phone number] or [email address]. You can also view my portfolio at [link].”

Adding these details helps the employer easily reach you and gives them more insight into your professional work.

9. Proofread for Spelling and Grammar

Spelling and grammar mistakes can ruin an otherwise excellent cover letter. Carefully proofread your letter for any errors before submitting it. It’s a good idea to have someone else review it as well, as a fresh pair of eyes can catch mistakes you might miss.

10. Finish with a Call to Action

End your cover letter by thanking the hiring manager for their time and expressing your enthusiasm for the role. Politely suggest the next step, such as arranging an interview.

For example: “I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience align with the needs of your team. Please feel free to contact me at [phone number] or [email address] to arrange a convenient time for an interview.”

This shows that you’re proactive and eager to move forward in the hiring process.

Key Takeaways for Job Seekers

Writing a cover letter doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these steps—starting with a strong introduction, tailoring your content to the role, and including specific examples of your achievements—you’ll increase your chances of getting noticed by employers. Remember to proofread your letter carefully, and most importantly, let your personality and enthusiasm shine through.