Five Tips for Writing a Cover Letter

Writing a cover letter is very important. It has information we can’t include in our resume. Today, we'll show you how to write a cover letter in the best way.
Five Tips for Writing a Cover Letter

Last update: 21 August, 2020

Although you may believe that you only need a resume when you’re looking for a job, a cover letter can also help you out a lot. In a cover letter, you can include information about yourself that you couldn’t include in your resume. This can make the difference between getting the job you want or not.

Some companies specifically request a cover letter in addition to a resume or at least say that they’d appreciate one.

But what if you don’t know how to write one? What should you focus on and take into account? You obviously shouldn’t send a cover letter without a resume. In addition, you should pay attention to your writing style and grammar.

Here are five tips that can help you out when you’re writing a cover letter!

1. Keep the person responsible for recruiting in mind

You have to consider the person who’s responsible for recruiting. In this sense, you should use the first paragraph to refer to the specific job offer you saw.

Also, in this first paragraph, it’s important to capture the recruiting manager’s attention. Explain how well you fit into the position. Don’t say much more at this point, because you’ll have time to explain why the company needs you later on.

A woman looking thoughtfully at a laptop.

2. Show your interest

One of the most important aspects of writing a cover letter involves showing interest in the job position. You can reflect this in your writing style and by exposing your ideas.

In addition, you should refer to your experience and training, as well as any courses you’ve taken that may prove useful for the job. Don’t forget to mention the languages you speak or understand, even if you don’t have a certificate for them.

3. An optimistic and positive tone

When you’re writing a cover letter, try to sound optimistic and positive. But proceed with caution. You shouldn’t come across as too effusive and colloquial.

In addition, maintaining an optimistic and positive tone will allow you to make sure the person who reads your letter won’t be put off by it. You don’t want to be hired out of pity, but rather due to your achievements, skills, and disposition.

A cover letter should show how interested you are in a job position. It should also show your enthusiasm to contribute to the company.

A man writing a cover letter.

4. Showcase your strengths

At times, it can feel awkward or difficult to put all of your strengths on display. Therefore, you should reflect before writing a cover letter. The letter you send must be truthful, answer many of the recruiting manager’s questions, and highlight why you’re the best person for the job.

What strengths do you have that will allow you to do your job better? What skills do you have that make you stand out from other candidates? Answering these questions in your cover letter will attract the reader.

On the other hand, remember that the hiring manager doesn’t know you. Thus, your cover letter can help influence their first impression of you.

A man holding some resumes in his hands.

5. Willingness to attend an interview

Every cover letter should include a closing paragraph. In it, thank the hiring manager for their attention and show your willingness to attend a job interview. At that interview, you can answer any questions the hiring manager may have.

As we mentioned before, a cover letter allows you to influence the recruiting team’s first impression of you. Thus, the best thing you can do is take your time to write a good one.

More and more companies are looking for stand-out candidates. Knowing how to write a good cover letter already shows what you can do. It represents an effort that can give you an advantage over the other candidates that apply for any position.


This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.