During your job search process, you will typically be required to submit both a resume and a cover letter for consideration. With a more complicated hiring process implemented by companies, it is important to utilize ways to separate yourself from other similar candidates. One of the easiest ways to do so is to tailor your cover letter to better suit the company where you are submitting your resume and cover letter.
Avoid Using a Generic Cover Letter
First and most importantly, avoid starting every cover letter with the phrase “To whom it may concern”. Beginning your cover letter with a generic address shows the hiring manager the lack of enthusiasm to research into the company. Sending your cover letter to a specific individual allows the reader to understand your dedication and interest in working with the company.
Instead of opening up your cover letter with the cliché “I am applying for the open position”, start with a “hook” to separate your cover letter from other applicants. Speak about how you heard about the company or reasons behind why you decided to submit an application.
Use Unique Examples, Highlight Your Skills
Just like creating a resume, tailor your cover letter to better fit the company requirements. Demonstrate your skills and highlight some of your accomplishments that would prove to the hiring manager why you would be the best candidate. Avoid using cliché words like “go-getter” or “goes above and beyond” and instead find words that are better dedicated to describing who you are as an employee.
Highlight skills by giving unique examples of how you would be the best candidate to fill this position. Share your approach on how you demonstrated a particular set of skills when faced with a large project or share a trait that is necessary to succeed in the position.
Show How You Would Fit With The Company Culture
Do your research and take a look at the company and company culture. In some cases, looking into the job posting itself will give you an idea of what type of tone you are able to use on your cover letter. In some cases, you will have the option of tailoring your tone to fit the personality of the industry.
If you find that the company you have applied at uses a more informal tone, perhaps a startup or a creative industry, use a creative way to show your personality. If you are applying for a corporate position, stick with a traditional cover letter with personal examples.