Aspire Professional Development- Cover Letter Best Practices

Summary

In this video, Jingen, an MBA candidate at Harvard Business School, shares essential tips for writing a standout cover letter. He emphasizes the importance of tailoring the letter to each specific job, researching the company, and showcasing transferable skills. Jingen advises against using generic templates and highlights the need for a personalized opening and a professional tone throughout. He provides examples of poor practices, such as using overly formal or informal language and failing to give context to skills. Ultimately, Jingen stresses the importance of being both professional and enthusiastic in your application.

Takeaways

• 😀 Tailor your cover letter to each specific job, avoiding generic letters.
• 😀 Research the company and connect with employees or former team members to better understand the role and culture.
• 😀 Ensure your cover letter is formatted correctly, using an appropriate tone and checking for grammar issues.
• 😀 Use a personalized greeting, addressing the hiring manager directly if possible. If not, 'Dear Hiring Manager' is a good alternative.
• 😀 Start your cover letter with an engaging introduction that highlights why you're excited about the position.
• 😀 Avoid underselling yourself. Even if you lack direct experience, emphasize transferable skills that can contribute to the role.
• 😀 Share specific examples from your past work experiences that demonstrate your skills and abilities, rather than just repeating your resume.
• 😀 Keep your tone professional but also convey enthusiasm for the role.
• 😀 Avoid informal elements like emojis or excessive exclamation points in your closing. Maintain a respectful yet positive tone.
• 😀 Proofread your cover letter and use online resources to ensure it's clear, concise, and free of errors.

Q & A

Why is it important to tailor your cover letter to a specific job?

Tailoring your cover letter to the specific job helps demonstrate your genuine interest in the company and the position. It allows you to highlight the skills and benefits you can offer that align with the company's needs, making your application stand out.

What is a major mistake people often make when writing cover letters?

A common mistake is using a generic cover letter for multiple job applications. This approach fails to connect with the specific company and doesn’t address the unique skills they’re looking for.

What should you focus on in your cover letter instead of just listing your qualifications?

Instead of simply listing qualifications, focus on demonstrating how your skills can benefit the company. Share specific examples of challenges you've faced and how your experience addresses those challenges.

Why is researching the company important when writing a cover letter?

Researching the company helps you understand its culture, values, and needs, allowing you to tailor your letter more effectively. It shows the hiring manager that you’re invested in the role and have done your homework.

What is the appropriate tone for a cover letter?

A cover letter should maintain a formal tone while still conveying enthusiasm. It should be professional, respectful, and clear, without being overly casual or too stiff.

How should you address the hiring manager in a cover letter?

It’s best to address the hiring manager by name if possible. If you’re unsure of their name, use 'Dear Hiring Manager.' This personalization makes your cover letter more engaging.

What is a poor way to start a cover letter?

A poor way to start a cover letter is by using generic phrases like 'To Whom It May Concern.' This sounds impersonal and can make the letter feel less thoughtful.

How can you showcase transferable skills in your cover letter?

Even if you lack direct experience in the specific role, you can highlight transferable skills such as communication, project management, and problem-solving. These skills can be applied across different industries and roles.

What should you avoid including in the call to action of your cover letter?

You should avoid using overly informal language, too many exclamation points, or emojis. A professional, polite tone is essential in your call to action.

How can you make your cover letter more compelling?

To make your cover letter more compelling, share personal motivations for applying, and demonstrate how your skills and experiences align with the company’s goals. Providing context for your achievements can also help the hiring manager visualize your potential contribution.