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Originally Posted On: https://hansschumann.com/2024/07/cv-cover-letter/
How to Craft a Stand-Out CV Cover Letter
I am often asked whether you still need to write a cover letter to accompany your CV. It sounds like something from the last millennium. Do people even read them?
Hard-copy CV cover letters are indeed outdated, but could they still be relevant in their new digital form as cover emails? Today’s reality is that CV cover letters may not always be read by the person who matters, and online applications often don’t allow you to include a cover letter anyway. So, should you even bother crafting one?
The Recruiter’s Take on CV Cover Letters
As part of my research for this article, I asked several recruiters about the pros and cons of CV cover letters. I was surprised to hear that none of them advised their clients to request them from candidates. Caroline Whiley of recruitment technology company Hireful prefers not to make candidates go through too many hoops to apply for a job. She believes that the days when companies had the upper hand in the job markets are long gone. These days, she says, candidates will readily walk away from a process that is too long-winded.
But even in markets where competition for roles is high, some recruiters advise against using cover letters. A recruiter in the legal market told me he couldn’t remember the last time he worked with a law firm that required a cover letter. His take is that everything that needs saying should be included in a CV, as employers don’t have the time to read cover letters.
Yet Caroline Whiley also confirmed that some employers still ask for CV cover letters, particularly organisations in the public or non-profit sectors. Where this Is the case, it becomes irrelevant whether you agree that CV cover letters are helpful. You will need to submit one.
My Own Take on CV Cover Letters
As a career coach, I have another angle to this conversation. If you really want a job, why would you not leverage every tool available to make your application stand out, even if there is a chance that your cover letter may not be read? This is particularly relevant to my clients who want to change careers and apply for a job that does not match their current experience. In this situation, your application needs a bit more explanation around why you want the job and why you would be a great candidate, even though your CV is not spot on for the job you are applying for. A cover letter is a great way to share this information.
Last but not least, it would look odd to attach your CV to a blank email. So, you will need to say something in the cover email, and you can just as well make it meaningful.
What is the Purpose of a CV Cover Letter?
A CV cover letter is your first chance to make a strong impression. Think of it as your personal pitch. While your CV lists your experiences and skills, your cover letter is where you aim to talk directly to the hiring manager and grab their attention. Show them the person behind the CV, highlighting your genuine interest and enthusiasm for the role you are applying for.
First impressions matter immensely. Recruiters often have stacks of applications to go through, and a compelling cover letter can make the difference between your CV getting a closer look or being tossed aside. It’s your opportunity to highlight how your background, skills, and interests align with the job and the company culture. This personalised introduction sets the stage for your CV and can spark the recruiter’s interest to learn more about you.
Moreover, a cover letter allows you to explain your interest in the position and the company in a way that your CV cannot. It shows that you’ve done your homework, understand what the company stands for, and believe you can contribute to its goals. This proactive approach can significantly boost your chances of landing an interview.
I have set out an example of a good CV cover letter at the bottom of this article.
Understanding the Difference Between a Cover Letter and a Personal Statement
It’s easy to confuse the personal statement on your CV with what should go into a cover letter. They’re not the same. Your CV’s personal statement, sometimes called a personal profile or executive summary, is a brief section at the top of your CV or LinkedIn profile that summarises who you are professionally. It’s a snapshot of your professional identity and capabilities.
On the other hand, a cover letter is a separate document that goes into more detail about why you are interested in the position and how your experiences and skills make you a good fit. This is your chance to tell a story that your CV can’t convey on its own, providing context to your achievements and career choices. Importantly, avoid repeating what’s already in your personal statement. Instead, use the cover letter to expand on points briefly mentioned in your CV and share new insights about your qualifications.
What to Include in Your Cover Letter
Crafting an effective cover letter means more than just summarising your CV. It should include a personalised greeting, an engaging opening paragraph, a clear outline of why you’re the right fit for the job, and a strong closing statement. Here’s how to do it:
- Tailor Your Letter: Generic cover letters are easy to spot. Tailor your cover letter to each job application by mentioning specific aspects of the company and how your skills can help achieve their goals.
- Tone and Format: Keep your tone professional yet approachable. The format should be clean and easy to read, typically not exceeding one page.
- Essential Elements: Always include a thank you to the recipient for considering your application. Express your enthusiasm for the role and the company, and end with a call to action, like expressing your eagerness to discuss your application in an interview.
Starting Strong: The Opening Lines
The opening lines of your cover letter can determine whether the hiring manager reads on or not. Start with a strong, engaging introduction that piques interest. Personalise the greeting by using the hiring manager’s name, if possible, and avoid overused openings like “I am writing to apply for…” Instead, open with something dynamic and specific to the role or company, such as “I was excited to see your opening for [position] because…”
Showcasing Your Fit for the Role
Link your professional experiences and achievements directly to what the job posting asks for. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you’ve used the required skills in past roles. Show enthusiasm for the position and explain why working at the company appeals to you personally and professionally.
Concluding Your Cover Letter on a High Note
End your cover letter by reiterating your interest in the role and stating that you’d welcome the chance to discuss how your experiences align with the company’s needs. Politely prompt the hiring manager to action, suggesting a follow-up call or meeting.
Keep it Short
All of this may sound like a lot to cover, but you will still need to keep it short, ideally not more than one page. This means using just one or two sentences to cover each point.
Proofreading and Sending Your Cover Letter
Before sending your cover letter, double-check for any spelling or grammar mistakes—these can be a major turnoff for recruiters. Send your cover letter in a professional format, either as a PDF attachment or directly in the email body, depending on the company’s submission guidelines. Follow up a week after sending your application to keep the line of communication open.
Wrapping it All Up
Investing time in crafting a thoughtful, well-written cover letter can significantly enhance your job application. Remember, a cover letter is your chance to make a personal connection with the hiring manager and stand out from other candidates. Make it count by being clear, concise, and focused on how you can contribute to the company. Check out the example CV cover letter at the bottom of this article.
You Don’t Have to do it Alone
Many of my clients invest in working with me to help them create and thrive in careers they love. Among other topics, I routinely assist them with their job search, including writing CVs, cover letters, LinkedIn profiles, and in interview training.
Feel free to reach out if you are interested in further guidance or support for your job hunt. As a career and leadership coach, I’m here to help you succeed. You can book a free Discovery Call here.
Good luck with your job hunt!
My other job-hunting articles
- How to write a CV
- How to write a Personal Statement
- How to prepare for an interview
EXAMPLE CV COVER LETTER
This example cover letter effectively introduces the candidate, highlights their relevant experience and achievements, shows knowledge of the company and expresses enthusiasm for the position. It is concise, well-structured and tailored specifically to the job and company.
Dear [Name],
I was excited to read that you are recruiting a Marketing Manager at [Company Name]. It sounds like just the opportunity I have been looking for.
I am a marketing manager with 10 years’ experience in developing and executing successful strategic marketing campaigns for various industries, and a passion for innovative marketing solutions.
In my previous role at [Previous Company], I spearheaded a comprehensive digital marketing strategy that increased our online engagement by 45% and boosted lead generation by 30% within the first six months. By leveraging data analytics and consumer insights, I was able to optimise our campaigns and achieve a 20% reduction in customer acquisition costs. My hands-on experience with SEO, content marketing and social media management has equipped me with the skills necessary to drive brand awareness and foster customer loyalty for [Company Name].
What excites me most about [Company Name] is your commitment to innovation and your focus on creating value-driven experiences for your customers. I was particularly impressed by your recent campaign on [specific campaign or project], which showcased your ability to connect with your audience in a meaningful way. I would feel inspired to work with such a dynamic and forward-thinking organisation.
At [Previous Company], I also had the opportunity to lead cross-functional teams and collaborate closely with sales, product development and design departments. This collaborative approach ensured that our marketing initiatives were aligned with overall business objectives and resulted in a cohesive brand message across all channels.
I would appreciate an opportunity to discuss how my strategic mindset, coupled with my creative approach to problem-solving, could contribute to your team and company objectives.
Thank you for considering my application. Please find my resume attached for your review.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
[LinkedIn Profile] (if applicable)
[Portfolio/Website] (if applicable)
