Cover Letter 2019 The Foundation
Crafting a compelling cover letter in 2019 is crucial for making a strong first impression on potential employers. A well-written cover letter can significantly increase your chances of landing an interview. It acts as your personal introduction, showcasing your personality, skills, and enthusiasm for the role. The cover letter provides an opportunity to expand upon your resume, providing context and depth to your qualifications. It is your chance to shine, differentiate yourself from other applicants, and persuade the hiring manager that you are the perfect fit for the job. Therefore, taking the time to perfect your cover letter is an investment in your future career success.
Understand Cover Letter Essentials
Before you start writing, understanding the fundamental elements of a cover letter is essential. This ensures your letter is professional, well-structured, and effectively communicates your value proposition. Consider the purpose of the cover letter: to introduce yourself, highlight your key skills and experience relevant to the job, and express your interest in the position and the company. Tailoring your letter to each specific job application is critical. Generic cover letters are easily identified and often discarded. Your cover letter should be a personalized document reflecting the requirements of the job and the culture of the company.
Key Components of a Cover Letter
A well-structured cover letter comprises several key components that work together to create a compelling narrative. Each section plays a vital role in conveying your qualifications and enthusiasm to the hiring manager. From the opening salutation to the closing call to action, every element should be carefully crafted to make a positive impact and increase the chances of securing an interview. Proper formatting ensures readability and a professional appearance.
Contact Information
Start with your contact information at the top of the letter. Include your full name, address, phone number, and professional email address. This makes it easy for the hiring manager to reach you. Ensure your email address is professional and appropriate for the job application. Double-check all the information for accuracy to avoid any errors that might prevent the employer from contacting you.
Date and Salutation
Include the current date below your contact information. Follow this with a professional salutation, such as “Dear Mr./Ms./Mx. [Last Name]”, if you know the hiring manager’s name. If you are unsure of the name, use “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear [Company Name] Hiring Team” as a respectful alternative. Avoid generic salutations like “To Whom It May Concern”, which can make your letter feel impersonal and less engaging. Researching the company beforehand can help you address your letter correctly.
Body Paragraphs
The body paragraphs are the heart of your cover letter, where you showcase your skills, experience, and enthusiasm. These paragraphs should be well-structured and concise, providing a clear narrative that connects your qualifications with the job requirements. Each paragraph should serve a specific purpose, from grabbing the reader’s attention to explaining your value proposition and encouraging them to take action.
First Paragraph Grab Attention
Start with a strong opening that grabs the hiring manager’s attention. Briefly state the position you are applying for and how you found the job. You might also mention a specific skill or experience that makes you stand out. The goal is to make the reader want to continue reading and learn more about you. Avoid generic openings and instead, make it clear why you are a good fit for the role and the company.
Second Paragraph Highlight Skills
In the second paragraph, highlight your key skills and experience that align with the job requirements. Refer to the job description and identify the skills and qualifications that the employer is looking for. Provide specific examples of how you have used these skills in previous roles to achieve results. Quantify your achievements whenever possible to demonstrate your impact. Focus on what you can bring to the company and how you can contribute to their success.
Third Paragraph Explain Value
In the third paragraph, explain why you are interested in the specific role and the company. Show that you have researched the company, understand their mission, and share their values. Connect your skills and experience to the company’s needs and explain how you can help them achieve their goals. Demonstrate your enthusiasm for the opportunity and express your desire to contribute to the team. Emphasize your understanding of the company’s culture and how you fit into it.
Closing and Call to Action
In your closing paragraph, thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration. Reiterate your interest in the position and the company. Include a clear call to action, such as requesting an interview or expressing your eagerness to discuss your qualifications further. Provide your contact information again, making it easy for them to reach you. End with a professional closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards”, followed by your name.
Formatting Your 2019 Cover Letter
The formatting of your cover letter is just as important as its content. A well-formatted letter is easy to read, professional-looking, and reflects your attention to detail. Use a clean and consistent format throughout the document, ensuring that your cover letter is visually appealing and easy to navigate. Poor formatting can distract the reader from your message and create a negative impression.
Font and Style Considerations
Choose a professional and easy-to-read font, such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri. Use a font size between 10 and 12 points. Ensure consistency in font style and size throughout the letter. Avoid using overly decorative or unusual fonts, as they can be distracting. Maintain a clean and uncluttered layout to enhance readability. Using a professional font adds credibility and shows attention to detail.
Margins and Spacing
Set standard margins of 1 inch on all sides of the page. Use single spacing within paragraphs and double spacing between paragraphs. This spacing helps to visually separate different sections of your cover letter, making it easier to read. Proper margins and spacing create a clean and professional appearance, making your cover letter visually appealing and easy to follow.
Proofreading and Editing
Proofread your cover letter carefully for any typos, grammatical errors, or inconsistencies. Use a grammar checker to catch any mistakes you might have missed. Ask a friend or colleague to review your letter for a fresh perspective. Thorough proofreading is crucial to avoid making a negative impression. Errors can undermine your credibility and make it appear that you lack attention to detail. Always proofread and edit your cover letter before submitting it.
Cover Letter 2019 Examples and Templates
Using examples and templates can be a helpful starting point for crafting your cover letter. However, remember to tailor them to your specific situation and the job you are applying for. Several online resources offer cover letter templates that you can adapt to fit your needs. Use these examples as inspiration and guidance, but always customize your letter to reflect your unique skills and experience. Ensure that the tone and content of the letter align with your personality and the job requirements.
Example Cover Letter for Entry-Level Positions
For entry-level positions, your cover letter should highlight your academic achievements, relevant coursework, internships, and any transferable skills. Focus on demonstrating your enthusiasm and potential, even if you have limited professional experience. Include examples of projects you’ve worked on, extracurricular activities, or volunteer work that demonstrate your skills and initiative. Tailor your cover letter to show how your skills align with the job requirements.
Example Cover Letter for Mid-Career Professionals
Mid-career professionals should emphasize their experience, accomplishments, and career progression. Highlight your most significant achievements, using quantifiable results to demonstrate your impact. Showcase your expertise in areas relevant to the job. Explain how your experience aligns with the company’s needs and the specific requirements of the role. Tailor the cover letter to showcase how your career accomplishments have provided value to previous employers.
Example Cover Letter for Career Changers
If you are changing careers, your cover letter is your opportunity to explain your transition and demonstrate how your transferable skills align with the new role. Focus on highlighting your skills and experience that are relevant to the job you are applying for, even if they come from a different industry. Explain why you are making the career change and why you are interested in the new field. Emphasize your adaptability, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn new skills. Frame your experience to align with the new role requirements.
Tailoring Your Cover Letter for Success
Tailoring your cover letter to each specific job application is essential for making a positive impression. Generic cover letters are often disregarded because they lack the personalized touch that demonstrates genuine interest in the role and the company. Customize your letter to align with the specific requirements of the job, showcasing your skills and experience. The more personalized the cover letter, the greater the chances of getting noticed.
Research the Company and Role
Before writing your cover letter, research the company and the specific role you are applying for. Understand the company’s mission, values, and culture. Review the job description carefully to identify the key skills, experience, and qualifications that the employer is seeking. Use this information to tailor your letter, emphasizing how your skills and experience align with the company’s needs. Demonstrating your knowledge of the company shows that you are genuinely interested in the opportunity.
Use Keywords from the Job Description
Incorporate keywords from the job description into your cover letter. This can help your application get past applicant tracking systems (ATS) and catch the attention of the hiring manager. Identify the key skills, qualifications, and responsibilities mentioned in the job description and use these terms in your letter. Make sure to integrate the keywords naturally within the context of your sentences. Keywords can also help highlight your most relevant skills.
Customize for Each Application
Avoid using a generic cover letter for multiple applications. Customize your letter for each job by referencing specific details from the job description, the company’s website, or any information you have gathered. Show the hiring manager that you understand the role and the company’s needs. Highlight how your skills and experience align with the specific requirements of the job and explain how you can contribute to their success. Personalization is key to making a lasting impression.
Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can significantly improve the quality of your cover letter. Errors can undermine your credibility and prevent you from getting an interview. Awareness of these pitfalls helps you craft a more effective and professional cover letter.
Generic Letters
Avoid sending a generic cover letter that is not tailored to the specific job or company. These letters often lack the personalization and details needed to demonstrate your interest and qualifications. Take the time to research the company and customize your letter to address the specific requirements of the role. Show the hiring manager that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the opportunity.
Typos and Grammatical Errors
Typos and grammatical errors can create a negative impression and damage your credibility. Proofread your cover letter carefully, and use a grammar checker to catch any mistakes. Ask a friend or colleague to review your letter for a fresh perspective. A polished and error-free cover letter demonstrates your attention to detail and professionalism.
Ignoring Instructions
Always follow the instructions provided in the job posting or application process. This includes formatting requirements, submission guidelines, and any specific requests. Ignoring instructions can indicate a lack of attention to detail and could result in your application being rejected. Carefully read the job posting and follow all directions to ensure your application is considered.
Conclusion Cover Letter 2019 Excellence
Crafting a perfect cover letter in 2019 requires understanding the fundamentals, tailoring your letter to each job application, and avoiding common mistakes. By following the guidelines and examples provided, you can create a compelling cover letter that showcases your skills, experience, and enthusiasm. A well-written cover letter can make all the difference in your job search, increasing your chances of securing an interview and landing your dream job. Make sure to proofread your letter carefully, and customize it to each specific job. Your effort in writing a quality cover letter will be rewarded.