How to Write a Cover Letter that Gets you the Job

Summary

In this video, HR consultant Debbie Del Maheran emphasizes the importance of a well-crafted cover letter in securing job interviews. She advises against using generic cover letters and encourages job seekers to tailor their letters to highlight relevant skills and experience. Key tips include keeping the letter concise, reflecting the language of the job description, and demonstrating personality. Debbie also warns against common mistakes like excessive length, irrelevant details, and overused phrases. A strong cover letter, alongside a great resume, can significantly boost your chances of standing out in the hiring process.

Takeaways

• 📝 A strong resume is essential, but pairing it with a well-written cover letter greatly increases your chances of landing an interview.
• 🚫 Avoid sending generic cover letters to multiple employers; tailor each one to the specific job and company.
• 📈 A well-crafted cover letter helps highlight your most relevant skills and experiences without forcing employers to dig through your resume.
• 📄 Keep your cover letter concise—three to five focused paragraphs that each address a specific part of your application.
• 🔍 Review the job description carefully and include relevant keywords and phrases to show you match what the employer is looking for.
• 💡 The first few sentences of your cover letter are critical—start strong and immediately communicate why you’re perfect for the job.
• 😄 Infuse personality into your cover letter to make yourself seem approachable and engaging, not robotic or overly formal.
• ⚠️ Avoid long, dense paragraphs and irrelevant details—keep your writing clear, relevant, and easy to read.
• ❌ Steer clear of overused buzzwords like 'I am passionate,' 'team player,' or 'fast learner'; instead, show these qualities through examples.
• 🔍 Always proofread your cover letter for typos and grammatical mistakes, and consider asking friends or family to review it before submission.
• 🎯 Tailor every cover letter to emphasize why you’re the right fit for the specific job—generic or sloppy letters can cost you the opportunity.

Q & A

Why is a cover letter important when applying for a job?

A cover letter increases your chances of getting an interview by highlighting your most relevant skills and experiences without requiring the employer to search through your resume.

What common mistake do job seekers make with cover letters?

Many people send a generic cover letter to multiple employers instead of customizing it for each job.

How long should a professional cover letter be?

A cover letter should be three to five paragraphs long.

What should each paragraph in a cover letter focus on?

Each paragraph should target a different aspect of your application, such as skills, experience, and why you are a good fit for the company.

Why should job seekers use keywords from the job description?

Using keywords shows that you match the employer's needs and increases the likelihood of passing through applicant screening systems.

What are the three main points a cover letter should convey?

It should show that you have the necessary skills, strong communication abilities, and that you will fit well with the team.

How should the introduction of a cover letter be written?

Start strong by immediately stating why you are a perfect fit for the job—avoid vague or generic statements.

Why is personality important in a cover letter?

Employers hire people, not robots. Injecting personality shows that you are approachable and someone they would enjoy working with.

What should be avoided in a cover letter?

Avoid making it too long, including irrelevant information, and using cliché phrases like 'I am passionate,' 'I am a team player,' or 'I am a fast learner.'

What should you do before submitting your cover letter?

Proofread carefully for errors, and if possible, have someone else review it to catch mistakes you might have missed.

How can tailoring a cover letter make a difference?

A tailored cover letter shows employers you understand the role and their needs, helping you stand out from other candidates.