How to Write a Cover Letter to Get a Job This Year

1. Header

The header should contain all your contact information. This includes:

• Your full name
• Email address
• Phone number
• (If applicable) Link to portfolio or LinkedIn profile

It should also address the hiring manager directly. You need to include:

• The name of the hiring manager
• Company address
• Hiring manager’s email address
• Company phone number

2. Introduction and hook

One of the best ways to hook a potential employer’s attention is by addressing them by name. Try to avoid using any of the following salutations:

• To whom it may concern
• Dear hiring manager
• Dear Human Resources team
• Dear sir or madam

This can come off as impersonal or lazy. You want to perform your due diligence in researching the company you want to work for, so address your letter to the specific person in charge of hiring for this position.

The first sentence of a cover letter can also be crucial. Many recruiters will often hear phrases such as “I am excited to apply for [Job Position]”. Instead, start by giving the hiring manager a reason or two why you believe you are the perfect fit. This can also help give you space to go over other previous work experiences and achievements in the body of your cover letter.

3. Opening Paragraph: Most Impressive Achievements

The first paragraph should not be a rehash of your resume. Rather, you need to list your most impressive (and relevant) work experiences, achievements and skill sets that are relevant to the job posting. This paragraph doesn’t need to be too long since you will go more in-depth in the next paragraph.

4. Second Paragraph: Why You are the Perfect Candidate

This paragraph is perhaps the most critical to the cover letter. It is where you need to explain why your previous work experiences and achievements make you the best possible fit for any given position. Having the job description on hand will be especially useful here. Elaborate on your experiences and how they match this current job description will let the hiring manager know that you are the right person for the job.

5. Closing Paragraph: Call to Action for the Interview

The final paragraph should reiterate your enthusiasm for the position, and sum up to the hiring manager why you would be the perfect fit. Finally, end your letter by stating you are available for an interview at their earliest convenience.