Covering the cover letter

Cover letters are a big part of applying for a job in any industry, but how can you make your cover letter stand out above the pack? Here are some great tips that we think could help.

• Do your research before you write. Call or visit the business. Check out their website. Knowing the business and what they do will give focus and direction to your letter.

• Tailor your cover letter to the job – and keep it relevant. While it’s great to let a prospective employer know how great you are, most recruiters are only interested in whether or not you are suitable for the position they need to fill. Find out exactly what the job will entail and focus on the particular skills and talents it requires.

• Be specific about your niche. Let the recruiter know what you’re an expert in. Saying you have 30 years ‘in automotive’ is not detailed enough. What expertise can you bring to the position, above and beyond what is required?

• Don’t go overboard – less is more. There is no need to tell your life story or irrelevant personal details. A single page should be enough to introduce yourself and let the recruiter know why you are perfect for the job. Look at it from the recruiter’s perspective; when you’re reading dozens (or hundreds) of cover letters, brevity is appreciated!

• Write your letter on computer software which will check your spelling and help with laying the letter out. That way, you don’t need to worry about losing the letter – and you can even use parts of it again for future applications. Don’t handwrite your letter if you’re serious about your application.

• Check that names and places are spelled correctly, especially when you’re addressing your letter to a particular person.  Are you writing to a man or a woman? Writing “Dear Sir ” to a female recruiter will start you off on the wrong foot! Make sure any dates are correct and of course, that your own contact information is right.

• Know your terminology and its context – the same word can have a different meaning depending on which sector within the industry you’re aiming to be employed in. For instance, the term “wholesale” has a different meaning for a vehicle manufacturer than it does for a retail dealership.

• Similarly, don’t use overly long words or complicated language, especially if you’re unsure of the meaning! Don’t pretend to be somebody you’re not – be the best version of yourself instead.

• • Be honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Everyone tries to put a positive spin on their experience and credentials – and that’s fine – but don’t overdo it. Make sure you can deliver on what you’re offering!