Cover Letter Definition
A cover letter is a document sent by a candidate that helps an employer decide why they should consider a candidate for an opening. Every job applicant should write and send a cover letter to stand out.
When you have a pile of applications for a job opening– wouldn’t the one with the cover letter attached catch your eye?
Cover letters include a candidate’s key qualities, skills, and desire to work at that position. Some companies even consider it as a significant backup to the resume.
Let’s dive in and understand everything about cover letters!
Here, we will discuss:
Understanding the Meaning of a Cover Letter
In simpler words, a cover letter is a tailored introductory note of a candidate. While it helps candidates to illustrate who s/he is as an individual, HR managers get a clearer view of the candidate.
These letters are more important for candidates than companies/HRs/employers. Let’s discuss the same in the next section!
Importance of Cover Letter for Job
With an impressive cover letter, candidates can make a strong and memorable first impression. It helps candidates to communicate what makes them stand out among other applicants and gives evidence that they are indeed interested in the position applied for.
HR managers can also make the most out of such letters to find some extra details of the candidates that were not mentioned in their CVs. It can be used as an effective tool to select the right candidate for the company.
Types of Cover Letters
Here are different types of cover letters you must know about:
Application Cover Letter:
Designed for a particular vacancy, it emphasizes a candidate’s expertise and proficiency which are for the specific position s/he is applying.
Referral Cover Letter:
This is to show connection and support, which comes through networking when a candidate is referred by a mutual acquaintance.
Letter of Interest:
This type of cover letter demonstrates a candidate’s eagerness to know about working opportunities within the company; showing s/he is fit for your organization.
Value Proposition Letter:
A value proposition letter highlights a candidate’s contributions & strengths rather than his or her soft skills throughout the service period. Say, for instance, mentioning “I can help make 5X sales” instead of adding skills like time management.
Must-Have Components in a Cover Letter
The following are some of the aspects that make a cover letter stand out. You, as an HR manager, should only shortlist those cover letters that cover the following factors:
Appropriate Voice & Tone:
A cover letter should always sound authentic. Its tone and voice should match that of the company. This certainly shows that the candidate has done some serious research about the company
Simple Format:
It should be an easy, uniform layout with increased reading comprehension. The letter should also have neutral colors like black and sans-serif fonts so that the page looks professional, not obtrusive.
Job Description Analysis:
You should check if the candidate has dug into the job description. You can easily understand this by searching the keywords that highlight strengths as skills and experiences.
Adherence to Instructions:
Some companies might require the answers to specific questions or certain information in the cover letter. If you have also given any such instructions, check if the candidate has followed them. If yes, it demonstrates that s/he pays keen attention, and is ready to fulfil the special needs of your organization as well.
Diversified Word Choice:
Check if the candidate has created his/her own words! See if s/he has used more dynamic alternatives like “tenacious” instead of “determined” and started the letter with an engaging statement.
There you go!
Cover letters are important for both candidates and HR managers. While candidates can set a lasting impression in front of companies, recruiters/HR professionals can streamline their hiring process. Do you know one more way to streamline your recruitment? It’s the simplest HR software- HROne!
HROne is known for streamlining the entire process of hiring, from documentation to onboarding. You will be able to do everything in just a few clicks.
FAQs
1. What do I write in a cover letter?
Just present yourself. Write down your interest in the job, discuss your experiences and skills relating to the employment, and emphasize how you can be useful to the organization.
2. Why is a cover letter important in the job application process?
A cover letter makes your application unique by showing who you are as a person.
3. What information should be included in a cover letter?
Ensure you use a salutation, introduction to your letter, highlighting of qualifications in the body paragraphs, and a closing statement before signing your name professionally.
4. What are some common mistakes to avoid when writing a cover letter?
Addressing the wrong person, over-emphasis of you, and ignoring to craft the letter for a specific position.