How do you write a good cover letter?

The cover letter is a crucial step in the recruitment process. Beyond the Curriculum Vitae, this will be the first impression that your future (potential) employer will have of you. We can say that it is therefore important to treat it, but how can it be done ? Here are the golden rules for writing a good cover letter!

Still haven't written your resume ? Nothing could be simpler !

Cover letter: in form

No more than one page

First, let's talk about structure. If you are presented with a document of 10 pages or more, there is a chance that you will feel discouraged. And for good reason: when you're very busy, you don't take the time to read several pages of content. It's the same for recruiters ! The first rule to remember : keep it short. There is no need to go beyond a page written and divided into clear paragraphs, because the recruiter will not read more. This will also allow you to sort through essential information as well as avoid repetition. Don't say too much and get straight to the point !

No spelling mistakes

No need to elaborate on this: spelling mistakes are the enemies of professionalism. When you write, read it carefully. One or more spelling mistakes will take away your credibility, even if your profile is very interesting for the recruiter. Do not hesitate to have your cover letter proofread by a close friend as well (parent, brother/sister, friend, colleague, etc.), in order to avoid mistakes as much as possible.

No letter without introduction/conclusion

Finally, on this too, I think we are starting on a fairly safe basis! To make a good cover letter, you need a layout that starts and ends with polite formulas to properly introduce and conclude the content. This will allow information to be integrated more smoothly. Bonus: do some research to find out who to address the letter to. Before the introduction, indicate the name of the person concerned by the (spontaneous) application, so that yours is more relevant.

Example of introduction : " Dear recruiter […], I am presenting my application for the position of [X]... »

Example of conclusion : " Please accept, Madam, Sir, the sincere expression of my feelings ".

Cover letter: in essence

Originality

" I am motivated and dynamic, ready to take on any challenge and give my best for your company ." Sound familiar? To write a cover letter, one of the golden rules is to stand out from other candidates. Tell yourself that recruiters have dozens, if not hundreds, of applications to scrutinize and compare. Use your letter to stand out from the crowd ! The recruiter must understand from the first lines that you are addressing him/her and his/her company (so we avoid robotic letters).

Whether it's through content or form, make sure to attract the recruiter's attention. There is no need to place lifeless and copy-pasted sentences. Be natural ! Make jokes, use a different format, in short, surprise the recruiter (while remaining professional and cordial, of course)!

Simplicity

This part ties in with the first point of this article. When writing a cover letter, keep your sentences short and simple. There is no need to use a stilted vocabulary and to make sentences that are too literary. As mentioned above, recruiters are usually very busy, so keeping it simple will put the odds on your side. This is not about writing a novel  but about concisely explaining your motivation for a position and the reasons why you are applying!

Efficiency

What is meant by " effectiveness "? Basically: be direct in your words. Don't beat around the bush and clearly state your strengths, qualities and experience that are most relevant to the job/internship you are applying for.

Quick tip : if you don't/have little work experience to include in your letter, present other skills that you may have acquired over time, whether they are hard or soft skills.

Then, don't forget that a cover letter is for introducing yourself, not bragging ! Despite the exposure of your professional/human qualities and experiences, remain modest and do not show yourself more than necessary.

Now, let's apply the theory!

First paragraph : Briefly introduce yourself and explain why you are applying. In a few lines, you attract the recruiter's attention by making it clear who you are and your intentions with regard to the company and the position you are applying for.

" I am a student/job seeker and I take the liberty of sending you my application for the position of X. Indeed, I came across your ad and my profile corresponded to your expectations... »

Second paragraph : here, you must list your skills and experience clearly. Also explain how they are useful and relevant to the position you are applying for.

" I have a training course in (insert field/sector) ", " I have X years of experience in (insert field) and this has provided me with skills that will be useful to your company." 

Third paragraph : it's time to apply what you've learned about the company beforehand. Explain why you are interested in this firm, but also why it should take you and not someone else!

" Your company has ethical values that I deeply share and for which I am ready to give myself the maximum ", " Working for your company would be a great opportunity for me because I identify with your missions and commitments." 

Fourth paragraph : finally, in a line or two, specify your availability for the future. Indicate that it is possible to contact you easily. Following it, you will write a final sentence that will conclude the whole thing and show your gratitude (choose a good formula, which corresponds to your content)!

" I am free for any further information and I am at your disposal, thanking you for the attention you will give to my application ,"

In conclusion, a cover letter is an essential tool that we all go through, whether we are students, interns or employees.  If you follow these rules and add your own special touch, you'll be ready for your next application !

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