- Start by listing your name and address
For example:
Alison Reed Jones
ali.Jones@email.com – Ensure that your email address is professional
55 Orchard Lane
Wellington, Western Cape
(021) 888-8000
- Include the date
Next, include the date of the day you are sending the letter. The dateline should be separated from your address and the recipient’s address.
- List the recipient’s name and address
If you don’t know the person’s name and surname “Dear Hiring Manager” will suffice.
- Open with an introduction
Start by introducing your letter with a standard greeting like “Dear,” or “Hello.”
- Include an opening paragraph about your intent to apply
Write an introductory paragraph that includes the position you’re applying for. You should also include a statement about your enthusiasm in regards to the role and company.
- Write a second paragraph about your background
Your second paragraph should be a brief overview of your background as is relevant to the position. Here, you should include key achievements, skills, and specialties that make you particularly suited to perform well in the position. Focus on one or two and provide specific details about your success including measurable impacts you made. Quantify your abilities as much as possible.
Pay close attention to keywords listed in the job description and include those that you identify within the body of your cover letter. You should only include information about your most recent one or two professional experiences.
- Focus on another reason why you are qualified in the next paragraph
Your next paragraph should focus on another key achievement or skill that is relevant to the position. Instead of repeating details from your CV or Resume, expand on specific stories or anecdotes that display your fitness for the role.
- Conclude with reasons why you are uniquely qualified
Your last paragraph should recap the reasons you are applying for the role and why you would be a great fit. Keep the closing conclusion brief and explain that you look forward to hearing from the employer with the next steps. Remember to thank the Hiring Manager / Recruiter for their time and consideration for the position.
- End with your signature
Finally, sign your name after a closing line like “All the best,” or “Kind Regards.”
By using these steps, you will be able to write a simple, impactful cover letter that shows employers why you are uniquely qualified for the position.