Many job applications also require you to write a cover letter. Whilst admittedly these can feel like a drag, they can often make the difference between getting an interview or not. So we at Zoop have decided to give you some tips about writing a cover letter, so that next time you can further stand out to interviewers and recruiters.
Number 1: Tailor your cover letter to the job you’re applying for.
This seems like a given, but it can really make a difference. Whilst you may often hear how a cover letter is just a repeat of your CV, a good cover letter is so much more than this. If you are going to tailor your CV to the job you are applying for, then it is crucial that your cover letter is relevant to the job as well. This does mean you should be researching the company you are applying to work for. We would recommend putting a small section in the letter about why you have chosen to apply for this company over a competitor that has a similar vacancy, even if you have in fact applied for that company more. Mention something that you may have found on their website, and it shows any reading that you have taken some time to learn more about the business offering the role instead of just the job advert.
Number 2: Convey your passion (particularly if relevant to the vacancy)
Here at Zoop, we go through thousands of CVs every month. Some are good, some unfortunately are not quite up to par. This is where a cover letter can be handy. If there’s an industry you are passionate in, but perhaps do not have as much experience as requested, then this is your chance to show recruiters that you should be picked. Experience is everything, but passion can often trump experience. As it is our promise to employers to give them staff worth investing in for the long term, we would often rather send someone that is excited to work in an industry with only 2 years’ experience than someone with 5 years’ experience who has no interest other than the money.
Number 3: Sell yourself properly
You want the job, but at the same time you don’t want to come across as too keen. The last thing you want is to appear desperate when applying for jobs, as that can often end up with you undervaluing yourself. Your cover letter is your first impression alongside your CV, with your interview being the event that will seal the deal. If you project yourself as desperate for work, an employer might accept you but would be more likely to drive down the salary a bit as they would know that you need the role.
At the same time, don’t confuse confidence with arrogance. If you’re going to demand the higher end of a potential salary, make sure the have the experience to back it up. If a job has a potential salary of £35,000-£40,000 a year and asks for at least 2 year’s experience, you are not going to get the higher end of the salary if you have the minimum amount of experience that’s been asked for.
Number 4: Keep it brief
You know how the phrase goes. Short and sweet. If a recruiter is going through dozens of applications, they will often have a shorter attention span when reading cover letters compared to a job that may only have a couple of applicants. Always assume that you have several competitors, as it is more impressive to be able to stand out amongst a group of 30 than a group of 3. But whilst you want to stand out, you also don’t want to reveal too much yet. That can wait until the interview, where you have more time to build upon that good impression.
Ideally you should keep your letter to one side of A4 paper. Any longer, and you risk the employer losing interest.
Number 5: Ask for feedback
Don’t forget, failure is not the be all and end all. Here at Zoop we are dedicated in making sure we can find a job that you will enjoy. That may mean you are not accepted for your original applications, but that doesn’t mean we can’t get you a role in your preferred industry in time. We are more than happy to work with you to amend your cover letter so that next time you send it, you are more likely to be accepted into your dream role.
Follow these steps and you will be writing strong cover letters in no time, breezing past the initial stage and onto the interviews. Keep your eye out on our social media, as we will soon be posting an interview guide for you as well.