The Best Cover Letter Format

A cover letter can be a crucial part of the job application process. It’s the first thing a hiring manager or recruiter will see, and it can make or break your chances of getting an interview. In this post, I’ll be discussing how to format and organize your cover letter content to ensure it gets results.

Heading
Your heading should be at the top of the page and should contain your contact information, including your name, email, phone number, and LinkedIn profile link (if you have one). It’s also a good idea to include your pronouns (if you’re comfortable doing so) and a link to your personal website or portfolio. If you’re mailing a paper cover letter, include the company’s information, such as the hiring manager’s name, company name, street address, city, state, and zip code.

Salutation
Address your cover letter to the hiring manager, the team you’d be joining, or “[Position] Hiring Manager.” It’s also acceptable to address it to the “Hiring Team” if you can’t uncover the name of the hiring manager. Never start your cover letter with “To Whom It May Concern.”

Intro
In your introduction, briefly state the position you’re applying for and express why you’re applying and what excites you about the opportunity. This is your chance to grab the reader’s attention, so consider starting with an attention-grabbing anecdote that showcases your personality.

Body paragraphs
Write two to three body paragraphs that sell you as a candidate. Instead of regurgitating your resume, craft a narrative about how your experience led you to apply for the job and bring up examples of how you’ve used your skills to help your past employers. Look at the job description and pull out a few skills that the company is looking for, then elaborate on how you specialize in those skills and how you can help the company with them.

Conclusion
In your conclusion, reiterate your interest in the company and your most important qualifications. Close with a statement about contributing your skills and experiences to the success of the company in the position you’re applying for.

Closing
Use a professional sign-off like “Sincerely,” “Respectfully,” or “Thank you for your consideration,” then add your first and last name. If you’re sending your cover letter in the body of an email, include any information you would’ve included in your heading below your name.

Crafting an effective cover letter requires careful attention to detail and a strong understanding of what the hiring manager is looking for in a candidate. By following the tips outlined in this post, you can ensure that your cover letter format and content are optimized to grab the reader’s attention and showcase your qualifications. Remember to tailor your cover letter to the specific job you’re applying for, and don’t be afraid to highlight your unique strengths and experiences. With a well-crafted cover letter, you can increase your chances of getting the interview and landing your dream job.