A properly prepared cover letter is very important for the first impression of your job application. The cover letter is like a small sign left to the employer so that you will be noticed among dozens of resumes. So, while looking for a job, an impressive cover letter attached to a well-prepared resume in the job application can put people one step ahead.
Using your skills in the appropriate places in the cover letter plays an important role in the job search process. Today, many companies evaluate applications with a cover letter.
In this article, we will talk about 5 key elements of a cover letter, and we will include a sample cover letter that can be useful for you.
What are the parts of a cover letter?
Although the content of the cover letters may vary, some key elements should be included in all cover letters.
Header
All cover letters should start with a header that includes your name, your job title, and your contact information such as your e-mail, phone number, and address.
Greeting
It is very helpful to address the correct person in your cover letter. If you know the recruiter’s name, you should start with “Dear” and write the person’s name. If the name of the person is unknown, it would be correct to address them as “Dear Authorized” or “Dear Hiring Manager”
Introduction
A cover letter is a short introductory letter presented to the employer. In this section, you should be careful about keeping your introduction short. Keep in mind that the resume is prepared for application to all postings, but the cover letter is job-specific.
Include which position you are applying for in the introduction. You can also provide information about where you heard/saw this position. Make them feel that you are suitable for the employer to call you for an interview for this position.
Qualifications and goals
Things will go deeper in this part. Why did you write the cover letter? Why did you decide to apply for this position? What qualifications do you have and are they suitable for this position?
Talk about what you will add to this position. Showcase your history, achievements, and qualifications. Praise yourself without exaggeration.
Do not hesitate to write that you understand the mission of the company and that you have done research on this position. Explain how your work will benefit both your future and the needs of the company.
Call to action and signature
Sign off the last paragraph of your cover letter by thanking, stating that you are waiting for news, and lastly your signature.
Here are some closing phrases that you can use:
- Sincerely
- Kind regards
- Best regards
- Respectfully
- With thanks
Cover Letter Sample
Here is an example of a cover letter that you can use:
Robert Miller
Middletown, DE
302-480-9694
[email protected]
July 20, 2022
Dear Mr. Jones,
I would like to express my desire to work in foreign trade, import-export, and international marketing departments, where I can add value to your company through my educational background and personal characteristics.
I am researching the most demanded goods and services from the USA on a sectoral and product basis abroad. I follow fairs based on specific products, especially the Licensing EXPO. At the same time, as a translator, I helped the sales of the exhibitors at these fairs. Between 25 June 2013 and 14 February 2014, I worked as an Import Customer Representative at CX Consulting Company. During my stay here, I carried out written and verbal customer interviews in line with my product research and contributed to the execution of the goods withdrawal processes of foreign trade companies located in Delaware. I do not have any domestic or international travel restrictions.
I completed the Foreign Trade and International Marketing Specialization Certificate Program organized by edX to gain basic information about the foreign trade sector I want to work in.
I think that my empathic approach to human relations, my smiling and positive nature, my appreciation of teamwork, and knowing the importance of working in harmony with my environment will help in working life. In the short term, I aim to add value to your company with the help of my educational background and personality traits, and in the long term, I aim to rise by improving myself.
As a result, I request that my attached resume be evaluated for suitable positions that can add value to your company. I would like to meet with you to discuss my application in more detail.
Thank you in advance for your interest.
Kind regards,
Robert Miller
