By Kirstie McDermott
With so many job applications done online these days, surely a cover letter isn’t necessary any more? The truth is a little different, actually, and unless the job application explicitly asks you not to submit one, you should always accompany your resume with a cover letter.
It may be more work, but it can really pay off. That’s because, when done well, a cover letter will perform a few key functions. For starters, it can showcase your written communication skills, an extremely important aspect of many jobs.
It can also help you to add more context to your application; a good cover letter provides the hiring manager with further detail on how your skill set aligns with the job on offer, what you can bring to the team and why you want the position.
So how do you create a cover letter that will knock a hiring manager’s socks off? Here are seven things you should include.
1. Customise it for the job
Tailor your cover letter to the specific job you’re applying for. Highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the position, and demonstrate how your background aligns with the company’s needs.
2. Start with a mission statement
You can stand out by doing one simple thing, according to Amy Hobley, executive recruitment manager at Sopra Steria. A strong mission statement is essential, she says. This should include what you are looking for, what’s your purpose, and what you are hoping to achieve from your next role.
“You might not have all the experience but if you’re willing to learn and grow and develop and pick up new skills, that sets you a good foundation.”
3. Show enthusiasm
Express genuine interest in the company and the role you’re applying for. Explain why you’re excited about the opportunity and work in a line on how your values align with the company’s mission and culture.
4. Quantify your achievements
Use specific numbers and metrics to demonstrate your achievements and the impact you’ve had in previous roles. For example, mention how you increased sales by 30% or how you improved a process that led to a 20% time-saving.
5. Tell a story
Make it interesting: Explain your career journey and how it has led you to apply for this particular position. Share a concise story that illustrates your passion and qualifications.
6. Highlight your soft skills
Don’t just focus on hard skills and your qualifications. Soft skills, such as teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving, are valuable in any work environment, and are highly valued.
7. Address any pain points
Research the company and identify any challenges or pain points they may be facing. In your cover letter, address how your skills and experience can help solve these issues, demonstrating that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in contributing to the company’s success.
Once you’ve proofread your cover letter meticulously for grammar and spelling errors, you’re good to go. If you are ready to apply for a new position, then discover thousands of open roles on the Professional Beauty Job Board, like the two below.
Physiotherapy Assistant, Lifecare, Murdoch
As a Physiotherapist Assistant you will support the care of patients in the clinic and on hospital wards. This includes assisting with patients around the hydrotherapy pool, maintaining the pool area and conducting regular checks of the pool, providing first point of first aid assistance, maintaining treatment areas with equipment and linen, stock control and ordering, and maintaining physiotherapy information brochures, and administrative duties as required. You’ll need a qualification in Allied Health Assistance, cert III and above, experience or interest in Allied Health Assistance, a valid Working with Children Check and are willing to undergo a National Criminal History check upon successful application. Apply now.
Skin Check Nurse, DNA Medical Recruitment, Sydney
DNA Nursing is seeking a highly motivated, experienced Skin Check Nurse for a short term contract in Sydney, NSW. As a nurse with expertise in skin assessments, you will be at the forefront of patient care and your meticulous evaluations and early detection of skin conditions will contribute significantly to timely interventions and improved patient outcomes. Day-to-day duties include checking height and weight and screening patients’ skin. You should have current AHPRA registration, knowledge of clinical practice standards, a COVID vaccination, and you must have Skin Check experience. Find out more here.
Browse the Professional Beauty Job Board to find your dream role.
This article was produced in partnership with Jobbio.
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