How to Write a Cover Letter | Key Technical Resources, Inc.

How to Write a Cover Letter

February 2, 2021

Getting hired for your dream job isn’t just a matter of having the right experience. You also need to be able to sell or explain that experience in an attention-grabbing cover letter in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Cover letters are one of the hardest, most time-consuming parts of the job search process—but with these tips, you can streamline the process and ensure your application gets the right kind of attention.

Style tips

Your resume and cover letter should “match.” That is, use the same fonts and letterhead to make them look cohesive. Try not to go overboard with graphics or hard-to-read fonts, especially if you’re applying for a business position. When in doubt, err on the conservative side: 12-point fonts, one-inch margins and simple letterheads.

Do your best to keep your letter to a single page. Recruiters and personnel directors get hundreds, if not thousands of applications. They are unlikely to read a multi-page missive, even if you think it tells a compelling story.

Finally, write a unique cover letter for each position to which you’re applying. It’s time consuming, but it’s the best way to get an interview. Think of it as showing the company how you’ll solve a problem for them.

Write an attention-grabbing introduction

Does this sound familiar? “Dear Sir or Madam, I am writing to apply for the Office Manager position…” If you’ve started cover letters off in this manner, you’re not alone—but you’re also not doing yourself any favors.

First, try to find out the name of the hiring manager so you can personalize your letter. Second, rather than telling them you’re writing to apply, tell them why: “I’m excited to apply for the Office Manager position, because not only do I love Company’s mission, I thrive in settings where I can use my organizational skills to support others.” That introduction tells them you’ve done some research into the company as well as understand what goes into the position, right off the bat. Be sure to mention whether you have a connection to the company, like a referral.

How to frame your content

When it comes to the body of the letter, make sure you’re not just repeating what your resume already says. Instead, expand on it. Take a few examples from your work history and directly relate them to the position you’re applying for. For example, if you’re applying for an office manager position, tell them about how you implemented a project-tracking software that increased productivity and reduced overpayments by 73 percent.

Try to ensure that your cover letter shows you’re a good cultural fit—you can usually tell whether a company is “fun” or conservative or socially conscious from their website. Finally, avoid cliches. Everyone is a go-getter who thrives in a fast-paced environment and thinks outside the box. Cliches make the hiring manager’s eyes glaze over and move on to the next cover letter.

For more ideas on how to write a strong cover letter, as well as for general resume tips in Fort Lauderdale, FL, call Key Technical Resources, Inc. We can help you find your next dream job.

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