Types of cover letters: a complete guide
A cover letter introduces you to potential employers, highlighting your suitability for the role. Getting it right can make a strong first impression, differentiate you from other candidates, and increase your chances of securing an interview.
A cover letter accompanies a candidate’s resume when applying for a job. It is a personal introduction to the hiring manager, highlighting relevant skills, experiences, and reasons for applying.
Unlike a resume, which provides a structured overview of the career history, a cover letter offers a narrative that can showcase a candidate’s personality and passion for the role.
74% of recruitment decision-makers prefer to receive job applications that include cover letters apart from CVs. According to their findings, good cover letter examples are highly valued by employers, with many considering them crucial for explaining career objectives, motivations, and employment gaps.
Even if a cover letter is optional, over 75% of recruiters tend to give preference to candidates who attach a cover letter in the correct format along with their resume.
Contents
Types of cover letters
Before writing a cover letter, it is vital to go through the various types of cover letters accepted by different organizations, each catering to a different role or purpose: –
- Application cover letter
The application cover letter responds to a specific job posting. It should be a basic cover letter tailored to the job description, highlighting how the candidate’s qualifications match the requirements. Using this letter can expand on the achievements listed in the resume and explain the person’s motivation for applying.
- Prospecting cover letter
Also known as a cold-contact letter, a prospecting cover letter is used when you want to inquire about potential job openings at a company. This type of letter demonstrates a proactive approach and interest in the organization, even if there are no current vacancies.
- Networking cover letter
A networking cover letter is sent to contacts within the professional network to ask for job search advice or referrals. It’s a great way to leverage connections and uncover hidden job opportunities. The letter should mention the mutual contact and explain the candidate’s job search goals.
- Career change cover letter
If an individual is transitioning into a new career, a career change cover letter is perfect for them! It is a short cover letter highlighting examples from experiences in the current role and how they make a suitable candidate for the new role. This letter should also explain the reasons for the career shift and highlight any transferable skills.
- Referral cover letter
When someone within an organization refers a colleague for a position, it is generally in the form of a referral cover letter. Mentioning the referrer in your letter can immediately capture the hiring manager’s attention and add credibility to your application.
- No experience cover letter
A no experience cover letter is for those who lack direct work experience in the job they are applying for. An ideal no experience cover letter will contain examples emphasizing the candidate’s enthusiasm, willingness to learn, and any relevant skills or coursework that can compensate for the lack of professional experience.
Cover letter examples
Checking out a few good cover letter examples is a great way to get a head start towards crafting the perfect cover letter.
Also read: Top 3 Cover Letter Template Samples.
The cover letter examples for a job provide a clear understanding of how to format and phrase cover letters for different scenarios.
Tips for writing a good cover letter
According to the Business and Professional Communication Quarterly, 56% of employers prefer cover letters with job applications. Here are some useful tips on how to type a cover letter that will help you stand out amongst others:
Customize each letter
Statutory warning – generic cover letters are easily spotted and often disregarded! Tailor the cover letter to the specific job and company. While it may be cool to generate cover letter formats through an AI tool, it is crucial to personalize and write the main content of the cover letter.
Use a professional format
Follow a standard cover letter format with your contact information, the employer’s contact details, a salutation, body paragraphs, and a closing.
Be concise and focused
Keep your letter to one page and avoid unnecessary details. Stick to relevant points that highlight your suitability for the job. Workable has a list of short cover letter examples that you can check out here.
Showcase your achievements
Unlike a resume, a cover letter has examples from a person’s real life, showcasing key abilities and accomplishments and how they’re suitable for the job.
Also read: Rise above the crowds: how to stand out in a crowded market
Include a strong introduction
Your cover letter introduction should grab the reader’s attention and make them want to learn more about you.
Proofread thoroughly
Ensure no grammatical or spelling errors. A clean error-free letter shows your attention to detail and professionalism.
A well-written cover letter can significantly boost a candidate’s chances of landing a job interview.
Frequently asked questions
- What is a cover letter?
- A cover letter is a document that accompanies your resume, providing additional details about your skills, experiences, and reasons for applying to a specific job.
- How should I format my cover letter?
- Follow a standard format that includes a header with the date and your contact information, a greeting, three paragraphs, and a closing and a signature.
- Can I use the same cover letter for different job applications?
- It's best to customize your cover letter for each job application to ensure it addresses the specific requirements and demonstrates your genuine interest in the role.
- What should I include in a cover letter if I have no experience?
- Emphasize your enthusiasm, willingness to learn, relevant skills, and any coursework or volunteer work that may be applicable to the job.
- How can I make my cover letter stand out?
- To make your cover letter stand out, have a strong, attention-grabbing introduction. Highlight your most relevant achievements and tailor your letter to the specific job and company. Use a professional tone, keep it concise, and ensure it is error-free.
