Yes, résumés are important, but cover letters level you up in a big way. Too often they're an after thought that looks more like a pre-made template we drop a few specific details into. We need to reframe our thoughts around the importance of a kick ass cover letter. Think of a résumé as a work portfolio - a static document. A cover letter, on the other hand, is your first opportunity to represent yourself, personality, professionalism, etc. A cover letter is the conversation starter, so you need to use your best pick up lines. Before you send off a cover letter to a potential employer, start asking yourself these 4 questions.
1. Have I made my intentions clear?
Conveying your intentions in a cover letter is more than just stating, "I want this job". Spend time really thinking about why this particular role at this particular company is of interest to you. Use these questions to get your wheels turning: why this company, why this specific role, why now, how does it align with my values? Communicate these answers in your letter.
2. Did I directly relate my experience/skill set to the job opportunity?
A huge mistake made in the job application process is assuming the hiring team will come to their own conclusion about how your resume fits into the specific role up for grabs. Directly relating your previous work experience or unique skill set to the role you are interested in:
shows the employer you understand the scope of the role itself
connects your résumé to the opportunity
helps the reader focus on certain aspects on your résumé
proves your competencies in the job requirements by bearing evidence
3. Can I drop a connection?
By connection... I don't just mean people! Think about a connection as anything that has introduced you to or helped you get to know the brand/company. Did you hear about them on a podcast, did you read about them on your favorite online media platform, did someone they would recognize recommend them? The more specific you can be here the better! Forming some sort of connection to the brand or company gives you a huge leg up. People are more inclined to do business with other people who they know, like and trust. Establishing a connection creates that relationship and subconsciously leads the reader feel associated with you whether they have met you yet or not.
4. Did I beat them to their hesitation?
9 times out of 10 there is something in the job description that you might not feel qualified to do. Maybe they're looking for someone with specific licensing, "X" years of experience, a degree level, etc. Instead of leaving out where you feel you may fall short from a qualification standpoint - address it head on and advocate for why you can overcome that hurdle. Trust me, I know this sounds backwards, but some of the best advice I ever received is to "beat someone to their own objection." This helps you maintain control of situations, direct the narrative, and ultimately position yourself in a brighter light.
Example: While I fully understand there may be hesitation to bring on someone without their licensing, I can assure you I will make meeting licensing requirements my top priority. I see this as a long-term career and will make every effort I can to position myself in way where I can grow and learn without any limitations.
The Main Takeaway
A cover letter is your "Hail Mary" opportunity to show someone who you are, what you're about, and why you're the best person for the job. Put your best foot forward and cover all your bases - starting with answering these 4 questions.
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