Job seeking is a difficult enough activity at the best of times, but it is even more challenging when you consider the current economic climate. In an environment where unemployment is high and job creation remains low, the market becomes extremely competitive and the opportunities for individual candidates diminish considerably.
Your ability to stand out and market yourself as a candidate is therefore crucial, as is a willingness to pay attention to even the most insignificant of details.
Writing the Perfect Cover Letter: Three Tips to Bear in Mind
The cover letter is an underrated and often ignored feature of every job application, but the fact remains that this is the first thing that a potential employer will see.
It can therefore be used to create an excellent impression and market your suitability as a candidate for work, as long as you adhere to several key rules. Consider the following: –
- Make Each Individual Cover Letter Different to the Last: When you are making multiple applications every single week, there is a temptation to create and utilise a generic cover letter. This is a huge mistake however, as a cover letter should always showcase your enthusiasm for a specific job or role of employment.
Avoid general statements and clichés, as employers will be looking for you to display both an understanding of the job and your passion for the advertised position.
- Assess Every Detail of the Cover Letter: It is all too easy to overlook the fundamental details of your cover letter, as your attention is often captured by selling your skill set and experience.
A high standard of spelling, grammar and literacy is absolutely crucial to your chances of creating a successful application, however, especially in such a crowded employment market. By taking the time to evaluate your cover letter and ensure the quality of its detail, you are reassuring an employer that you are an effective and articulate communicator.
- Invite Further Communication: Closing your cover letter is especially important, as this provides the ideal opportunity to reaffirm your interest in the position and invite further communication.
You should look to encourage an employer to ask any questions that they may have, and ensure that you are readily available to provide as much information as necessary. With this in mind, it is also important to make sure that your contact details are clearly displayed beneath the signature of your covering letter, so pay attention to both your accuracy and clarity.
Author Bio: This article was contributed by Nixon Williams. Nixon Williams accountants specialise in advising freelancers about their legal requirements and tax affairs, so visit the website today for market leading information.
