How to Write an Impressive Cover Letter in Minutes

Aug 14, 2024

12 mins to read

Crafting a great cover letter is your opportunity to shine and highlight the unique strengths you already possess. You’ve worked hard to build a strong skill set and impressive experiences, and now it's time to showcase them in a way that sets you apart from the competition.

A well-written cover letter is more than just a formality—it's a powerful tool that allows you to make a memorable impression and clearly articulate why you’re the ideal candidate for the job.

This is also your chance to show potential employers your good writing skills and that you are comfortable in a given language, may it be mainstream English or second language Xhosa. Hence your writing and language skills need to be of perfection without any mistakes at all. Remember to proofread, proofread, and proofread!

The three basic parts of a cover letter:

Paragraph 1

Start by stating your enthusiasm for the position and the company.

Clearly mention the specific job title you’re applying for.

Briefly state where you discovered the job listing, such as a job board, the company’s website, or through a referral.

Craft an engaging opening statement to capture the reader’s attention right away.

Paragraph 2

Highlight Relevant Skills and Experience that are directly related to the job requirements.

Share concrete examples of past achievements that show you’re qualified for the role.

Describe how your background makes you a strong candidate for the position.

Customize your content to align with the company’s needs and the job description.

Paragraph 3

Restate your interest in the position and enthusiasm for the company.

Express your eagerness to contribute to the company’s success.

Mention your availability for an interview or offer to provide more information.

End by thanking the employer for considering your application and conclude with a professional sign-off.

To ensure your cover letter hits the mark, here are some key do's and don'ts:

Do's

Tailor each letter for the specific job.

Address the hiring manager by name if possible.

Highlight skills that match the job requirements.

Keep the letter to one page.

Show genuine interest in the role.

Use a formal and professional tone.

Proofread for spelling and grammar errors.

Start and end with strong statements.

Focus on how you can benefit the company.

Don't

Use a generic template for every application.

Repeat your resume in the cover letter.

Ignore the key qualifications listed in the job description.

Use complex language or jargon.

Discuss salary.

Include information that is not relevant to the job.

Don’t use the same letter for every job application.

Include anything that will be tricky to explain in an interview.

In conclusion, a well-crafted cover letter can significantly boost your job application. Tailor it to the job, highlight relevant skills and experiences, and maintain a professional tone. Proofread carefully, avoid generic templates, and focus on how you can contribute to the company’s success. A clear, engaging cover letter will help you stand out from the competition.