You’ve Been Writing Your Cover Letters All Wrong: How To Make It Stand Out

Cover letters may seem like a mere formality in the job application process, but it deserves more attention than what most candidates give it. It is the first impression you’ll make on a hiring manager, and it can make or break your chances of getting that dream job. That’s why it is important to craft a cover letter that will grab the attention of the person reading it.

Most people start their cover letters with a generic introduction, which goes something like this: “Hello, my name is _______. I have considered your Job Ad and I’m interested to apply as _______ in your company.” This approach hardly makes any impact and is unlikely to differentiate you from your competition.

Instead, try to start your cover letter with a story. It can be something that happened during your spare time, at work, or during vacation. The point is to capture the reader’s attention and make them interested in what you have to say. Choose a story that is appropriate for the company and position you are applying for.

For example, you could start your cover letter with a personal experience that led you to pursue a career in the medical field. If you have had an experience caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, you could start your cover letter like this: “As a teenager, I learned that my grandfather developed Alzheimer’s. While it was painful to watch him decline, I made a point to provide him extra attention, tend to his ever-growing needs, and be as much of a caretaker as I could. It wasn’t easy, but that experience proved to me that nursing is my calling. And that’s why I’d like to work in the medical field and help others.”

The key is to relate your story to the position you desire and the skills needed. This will make you stand out and increase your chances of making an impression on the hiring manager. People love stories; it’s the logic behind it.

To start a cover letter this way, you first need to know the position you want to apply for. List down all the skills required for the job, and think of the most important qualities needed for the position. Then, look back into your life and remember a moment or situation that reveals the kind of individual the hiring officer desires. The great thing about this approach is that it doesn’t need to have happened in the workplace.

By following this process, you will be able to write a cover letter that will make a great first impression. Your cover letter will now stand out from the dozens of generic ones that hiring managers receive. The personal story that you share will make you more memorable and relatable, which is crucial in creating a connection with the reader.

In conclusion, your cover letter is your chance to show the hiring manager that you are the ideal candidate for the position. By starting your cover letter with a personal story that relates to the job and showcases your skills, you will make a great impression and significantly increase your chances of getting hired. Remember, a great cover letter does not need to be lengthy. Concise, yet impactful, is the way to go. So, take the time to craft a compelling story that will make you stand out among the other applicants.