Writing a customized cover letter for each position in which you apply takes time – and it matters. A survey by ResumeGo found applications with tailored cover letters yielded 53% more interviews than those without cover letters.
How do you write a customized cover letter? Utilize the job description of the position for which you are applying. Your cover letter is an opportunity to present your experience in relation to a specific job. It is not a regurgitation of your resume. The most effective cover letters tell a story about why you are qualified for the role.
First, in the introductory paragraph, in a concise matter, explain who you are and why you are interested in the position. If you are referred, identify the person who referred you. Make the connection personal and brief. Here’s an example:
Your company’s mission of democratizing financial services for people all over the world is highly motivating to me. I have personally witnessed inequities in accessing financial services. Applying my finance and technical skills to eliminate this inequity is why I enthusiastically submit my application for the Fintech Specialist position. Compare that opening sentence to this one: I am writing to you to apply for the Fintech Specialist position. Which letter would you want to keep reading based on the opening paragraph and why?
Second, use one or two paragraphs in the body of the cover letter to demonstrate how your relevant accomplishments have prepared you to meet the requirements of the role (such as forecasting experience) and take on the expected responsibilities. Quantify your relevant accomplishments. For example:
One internship accomplishment I’m most proud of is developing an algorithm that forecasted with 85% accuracy demand for financial services in low-income communities across three states. Compare that statement to this one: I have worked at XYZ for the past two summers and have been exposed to a variety of financial and technical projects. Which statement is stronger and why?
The final paragraph needs to bring home why you’re a good fit for the position. Strike a tone that displays interest in working for the organization without being too pushy. For example:
It is because of an alignment of the company’s mission with my own motivations and a match between the FinTech Specialist job requirements with my relevant skills and experiences, that I hope to hear back from you to further explore a potential fit. Compare that statement to: I am highly qualified for this position and will call you by the end of the week to schedule a time to talk. Which one of these statements strikes the right tone for a concluding paragraph and why?
Importantly, make sure you include the name of the hiring manager (Dear Mr. Smith vs. To Whom It May Concern), keep your cover letter to one page, and include an appropriate valediction (Sincerely – not Thanks, which is too informal).
One mistake can disqualify you, so proofread and have your FirstGen Ahead coach also review, provide feedback, and proofread the final version. Only after these steps should you hit the send button.
