You’ve finally found the job of your dreams! You have all the skills the company requires, now all you have to do is apply for the position.

Full of enthusiasm, you head over to the application site, but, uh oh, they’re asking you for a cover letter. You stop dead in your tracks thinking, “What is a cover letter for a job application?!”

Don’t worry, writing a great cover letter is super simple. We’ll show you how to create a brilliant cover letter that will seal the deal with your future employer!

What Is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a one-page document that lets your future employer know which position you are applying for, and why you are the best candidate for the job.

Think of your cover letter as a sales pitch. Highlight your achievements, show off your personality, and blow them away with your enthusiasm.

Keep your cover letter short and sweet. Don’t ramble on or repeat the same information that is on your resume.

Remember to keep the letter focused on your professional achievements. Recruiters don’t need to know about your childhood pets.

Some companies don’t ask for a cover letter,  but there is no harm in sending one anyway. It will show that you have put extra effort into your job application.

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Cover Letter Structure

A professional cover letter is written using the following structure:

Heading

The first thing your cover letter should contain is your contact details. Below this, you should write the date, followed by the employer’s contact details.

Then, write a greeting. If possible, address the hiring manager by name.

Avoid writing “To whom it may concern” as this phrase is worn out and generic.

Introduction

The first few sentences of your cover letter are the most important.

Begin your letter by stating which job you are applying for. Explain where you heard about the job, particularly if someone from that company referred you. Then, briefly describe how your skills or accomplishments match the position.

Body

Your body should be at least 2 paragraphs long. Here, you explain why you are interested in the job and why you are the best candidate.

This is where you need to really sell yourself. Don’t just rehash your resume.

Avoid writing skills like “good team leader.” Instead, explain the outcomes of these skills. For example, “I successfully led a team of sales agents. Together, we achieved 140% of our sales target.”

Discuss your relevant education level, skills, and work experience. Tie these back to the original job posting to show that you can fulfill the employer’s needs.

Conclusion

Thank the employer for considering your application.

Then, include a call to action. This ends your cover letter on a confident note. “I look forward to meeting with you to discuss this position in more detail” is a lot more positive than “I hope you hear from you soon.”

Sign off with “Sincerely”, or “Best Regards” and then your name.

Include your signature at the bottom of the letter.

Now You’ll Never Have to Ask “What Is a Cover Letter for a Job Application?”

Now you know the answer to “what is a cover letter for a job application”, you can practice writing a letter that will blow recruiters away.

Soon, the job offers will come flying in!

Browse through our other articles for more helpful career insights!