How To Navigate Cover Letter Formatting

Cover Letter Format

A cover letter isn’t just something you include in a job application because you have to. It can be an incredibly effective way to discuss who you are and give more insight into why you’re the right fit for a specific job. To use a cover letter most effectively, however, you need to understand the format. Here’s how you can create a cover letter template you can use every time you write a cover letter.

What Is the Importance of a Cover Letter Format?

A cover letter format is more important than it might seem. If you’re able to stick to the right format, you’ll be more likely to express yourself fully and clearly to a potential employer. This cover letter format increases your cover letter writing skills by default, even if you aren’t confident in your ability to write a cover letter.

Cover Letter Format, Top to Bottom

So how do you write a cover letter that’s effective and helps you in your job search? This is how a good cover letter should look.

• Header

  The first step is to create your header. If you look at other cover letter examples, a header should be no problem. It usually includes your full name, contact information, including your phone number, and professional profile links, including your LinkedIn. Address the letter with the hiring manager’s name. Avoid overly formal and old-fashioned salutations like “To Whom It May Concern” and “Dear Sir or Madam.” Only use “Dear hiring manager” if you really can’t find the name of the hiring manager.

• First paragraph: Introduction and hook

  Now you can move into the body of your cover letter. The opening paragraph needs to capture the hiring manager’s attention. Introduce yourself with something unique and interesting, whether it’s an anecdote from your work experience, information about what makes you unique, or your most impressive accomplishment. Either way, it should be that interests the recruiter enough for them to read the rest of your cover letter.

• Second paragraph: More information about skills and achievements

  Now that you have the hiring manager’s attention, you can move into your next paragraph. This paragraph should be all about why you’re the perfect fit for the company you’re applying to. Here you can address specific skills and achievements, how you might fit into the company culture, and information about previous experience. If you want to add extra achievements or experience, you can add bullet points after this paragraph.

• Third paragraph: Closing and call to action

  The final paragraph is where you wrap up your cover letter. In this closing paragraph, you need to ask directly for the job interview. This is one of the most unique things about a cover letter. Even a very simple cover letter allows you to ask the recruiter for a job interview. Additionally, end the letter with a professional sign-off, like “Sincerely,” not a personal one like “Best wishes.” Include a cover letter notation, where appropriate, to alert the recipient to any other documents or items enclosed with your correspondence.