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Cover letters are the broccoli of the job application world. Everyone has to do them, but everyone dreads them. This month, we’ll explain how you can write a cover letter to “wow” the recruiters for your dream role in communications.
Don’t experiment with cover letter writing
We often find that people overthink their writing. Our recommendation for everything you send in your job application is to keep your work simple and clear.
With each sentence you write, think to yourself: Am I getting my message across in language that the average person will understand? If it sounds like the opening to an experimental novel, it’s time to get out the red pen!
The same can be said for formatting: No experiments.
Keep your cover letter formal
The first line of your cover letter shouldn’t be different from another job. Resist the temptation to get cute! That original opener you’ve got lined up for your communications role? Trust us – we’ve read it already!
Do your research
You’ll get a reasonable estimate of the tone of voice they’re looking for on their company website and investor reports. Are they corporate? Is their tone of voice cold and collected, or is it warm and friendly? Match that tone in your cover letter to stand the best chance of getting invited for an interview.
Write music for their ears
Think about who might be reading your cover letter. It’s unlikely to be read by the Head of Comms, especially if it’s a huge conglomerate or global investment bank. Avoid technical language and reuse the keywords that you find on the job spec. What parts of your profile and experience match these keywords?
Tailor your approach, and write your cover letter to one person
Even recruiters like to feel a little flattered! Don’t mass-submit the same cover letter to every company in the market. Targeted approaches will always get the best results.
Try to get the recruiter’s name. Every company will have a website and LinkedIn account, so it shouldn’t take long to work out to whom you should address your cover letter.
Make your intention clear in the first paragraph
Recruiters will frequently be hiring for several roles at one time, so make sure you clarify in the first paragraph (if not the first sentence) why you’re approaching them.
Outline your skills in the cover letter’s second paragraph
The second paragraph is the chance for you to shine. Rather than rehashing your usual “elevator pitch”, we recommend combing the job spec to see what they’re looking for. Then you can match this to your profile.
Use the third paragraph of the cover letter to talk about them
Many candidates forget this part, but it’s important to explain why you want to work for their company. A little research goes a long way in helping your recruiter feel that you took the time to think about your approach, and it will help them filter you from the people who sent blanket emails to everyone looking for talent.
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