Effective Cover Letters Are Professional And Succinct

Two of the most important things to consider when writing a cover letter are professionalism and clarity. These are qualities that will help you land interviews and jobs. An effective cover letter highlights your selling points in a professional and succinct way. Your cover letter should be easy to follow, concise and to the point. When it comes to cover letters professionalism is the whole package. It is the way you deliver your cover letter, how it is structured, the content and the copy as well as your follow through.

You should strategically plan how you want to present your information. What are the most important points and how do you want to get them across? It is important that your main selling points are easily assessable and clear. Use bullet points to make your points stand out. Keep them short, focused and targeted. You want the letter to flow and the reader to move comfortably through it. Before you finalize your letter, read it out loud to ensure it flows succinctly. After you have written your letter sleep on it and come back to it the next day to refine it.

Effective cover letters follow a specific formula; it is the formula for success.

1. Introduction - This is your first contact with a potential employer and it needs to be professional and succinct. Address the person that will be reading your cover letter and resume. This will grab their attention early on and show that you are serious about the job. It also shows you have taken the time to do some research.
2. Opening - The first paragraph may be the most important you write. This is the hook, your chance to introduce the reader to your unique selling points. An opening paragraph should be dynamic but succinct. You have a lot of information to pack into a small amount of space so you need to make sure you are expressing yourself in a clear and concise way. This paragraph should assert your connection with the role, proven ability (unique selling point) and a relevant benefit for the company.
3. Body - The body is where you tie together your unique selling points, proven results and projected benefits. You don't have a lot of time to convince your potential employer you are right for the role so what you say needs to hit home. The body should be no more than 1 or 2 paragraphs of carefully crafted copy. Make your points clearly. Use conversational but professional language and connect with the reader by demonstrating relevant knowledge.
4. Closing - The closing paragraph should include a final reiteration of how your skills are a match with the role. You should thank the reader for their time and consideration and clearly state what your next move will be. "I will follow up next week to ensure you have received my resume" or "I am available for a personal meeting and will follow up to discuss this further"
5. Follow through - Professionalism is following through on your claims. Following through with a thank you note is also a nice touch.

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