Craft the Perfect Cover Letter with The Arnold Group
Your first step to making a GREAT impression starts here. Get started on your cover letter now!
Mastering the Art of Cover Letters
Your first step to making a GREAT impression starts here. Get started on your cover letter now!
Make It Easy To Read
Limit your cover letter to two or three well-written, easy to read paragraphs. This shows respect for the hiring manager’s time, and your ability to concisely get the point across.
Match It To Your Resume
Use the same language in your resume to prevent confusion or discrepancy.
Don’t Be Generic Boring
Your cover letter should be tailored to each opportunity you apply for. Do your research so you can specifically address the hiring manager, company, and industry. Don’t use the same generic phrases everyone else uses. Instead of saying you’re a “problem solver,” talk about how you’ll actually solve their problem.
Solve Their Problem
Employers are hiring because they have a problem and need a solution. Use your cover letter to show why you’re the answer to their problem.
Proofread It
Any mistakes in your cover letter will likely mean your resume gets passed over without a second glance.
Mastering the Art of Cover Letters
Your first step to making a GREAT impression starts here. Get started on your cover letter now!
Address potential pitfalls
Potential red flags in your resume can easily be explained with a cover letter, and prevent your resume from being trashed at first glance.
If you’re trying to switch careers or industries, address this in your cover letter by explaining your reasons behind the change and your long-term goals. If applicable, address how your previous experience in a different field could serve as an advantage to the company if you were offered the job.
Address any big gaps in your work history in your cover letter. A gap in employment isn’t necessarily a red flag unless you fail to explain it.
Use your personality to attract attention
Write like yourself, using an appropriate voice and tone to tell stories from your experiences for an interesting way to highlight your skills and show how you solve problems.
Create interest
Don’t repeat your resume within your cover letter. Instead, generate interest by focusing on why your background and skills directly relate to the job opportunity.
Show your enthusiasm and motivation
Don’t sound like every other applicant by repeating the well-known mantra: “I want to advance my career and make more money.” Stand out by showing your interest and enthusiasm for the company and opportunity.
Your Blueprint for a Standout Cover Letter
In a nutshell, your cover letter should say, “My unique skills and experience make me the right person to solve your company’s problem. I hope you’re as excited about this as I am.”
The goal is to convince hiring managers to pick your resume over all the others. Explain who you are, what you have to offer, why your skills and experience are valuable to them, and how you’ll both benefit from your hire.
1.0 File Format
Save your resume in PDF format so it presents as intended, regardless of where it’s opened.
2.0 Space & Margins
A single space within paragraphs and double space between paragraphs is standard for most cover letters. Text shouldn’t exceed three paragraphs and be sized in a 10pt – 12pt neutral font.
3.0 Inner Address
Follow professional, formal business protocol and include the company address on the left margin, just above the greeting.
4.0 Greeting
Address your cover letter to the person most likely to conduct the interview. It should be located two spaces below the last line of the Inner Address; leave two spaces between the greeting and first paragraph. Try to be as specific as possible, and avoid using “Dear Sir/Ma’am.”
5.0 Open Graph
The first paragraph should entice your reader to continue reading. A good opening line is essential, as employers will make quick judgments. Showing interest in the employer/company instead of yourself is a good approach – demonstrate you understand their problem and how you’re the best solution.
6.0 Body Paragraph
The body paragraph is where you discuss why you’re interested in this position, at this company. Briefly explain the contributions you can make, and what qualifications, experience, and skills make you valuable. Be as specific and interesting as possible by using a short story-like example of your achievements.
7.0 Closing Paragraph
The closing paragraph must propel the reader to take action. Note that you’re enclosing a resume and express desire to meet face-to-face in the near future. Be sure to thank your reader for their time and consideration.
8.0 Signature
After the closing line, skip two lines and add in a closing remark such as, “sincerely,” or “respectfully,” skip four more lines and type your name. If you’re printing your cover letter, be sure to actually sign the letter above your typed name.
