When applying for a job, the candidates are asked to submit a cover letter. A cover letter is a one-page document that hiring managers look for. Cover letters are also usually submitted along with your resume. In this document, you are to showcase your skill set and show the hiring manager why you are the perfect candidate for the position you are applying to.
Since it is only one page, you must limit what you put. It should be short enough (200-400 words) to fit on one page and for the contents to be direct to the point. But long enough to show what you can offer. The tricky part here is how you will show that you are the applicant they are looking for in 200 to 400 words only.
A trick to make this part easier is to use a format. Using formats is highly recommended for those new to the files that are asked in the job industry. There are different cover letter formats you can follow to keep you guided. Specific formats are used for particular experiences. You have to pick a format that fits you. IF you follow a good structure, you should be good to go. But there are still some things that you have to consider while writing your cover letter.
1. Using the wrong format
The most basic and most important aspect to consider is the format of your cover letter. You have to make sure that the format you use makes reading easy for the hiring manager. You would want your cover letter to be unique but do not forget to tone it down in the designs. Avoid adding unnecessary borders and other design elements and being wordy. These elements may contrast with your cover letter or distract the hiring manager.
2. Reusing cover letters for every application
Your cover letter should be well written and unique because this document will serve as the first impression you make on the hiring manager. You have to grab the hiring manager’s attention, leave a good impression and keep them curious.
Reusing cover letters will show that you have not customized them according to the company and position you are applying for. This will also come off as lazy and incompetent. You can reuse some parts but make sure to make adjustments, especially when there is a new or different factor that comes in.
3. Mentioning salary expectations
Unless the employers ask you to talk about your salary expectations, never talk about it in your cover letter. Talking about it at that stage will make you look like your focus is on the benefits that the company can give and not about working for the company itself. Whether it is true or not, you have to show that you are there for the experience and learning. Companies now tend to put character and attitude above skill.
4. Not providing support for your claims
Every claim you state in your cover letter should have supporting details. You should be able to provide factual data to the claims to make about your experience, skills, and achievements. So do not forget to put recognition documents like certificates to show proof.
There is no one-size-fits-all format. You have to be patient and properly assess yourself and your experience before picking a format to follow. Since you are applying for the job, you are still yet to prove yourself; you won’t be able to show your skills if you cannot get past the screening test. Always keep in mind that cover letters may be the basis for the hiring managers whether to read your resume or not. Making a high-quality cover letter may be used as leverage for you.