Writing a cover letter

Getting the hiring manager pick your resume or cover letter is easy, writes Tania Ngima

Every time an organisation puts a job advert out, it is circulated widely and applicants send in cover letters, resumes, and application forms by the hundreds.

As a potential candidate for the job, always ask yourself ‘what in my arsenal of experience, skills and qualifications sets me apart from the other applicants? Why will the hiring manager in charge of identifying a suitable candidate pick my resume or cover letter out of a 500 strong pile with the intention of considering me for the position?’

Regardless of what position you are applying for, you owe it to yourself to give your application the very best shot at the job. Even if you do not think you are unique, there is no chance that any other applicant has exactly the same collection of skills, experience and qualifications as you. The key is in portraying this in as honest, yet as unique and attractive light as possible.

Quotes

One of the reasons why we enjoy social media so much is that occasionally, we come across a quote that speaks to the core of our being. And even though some of these quotes may be light hearted and flippant, used in an appropriate way, they pique your reader’s interest and can be the difference between your cover letter ending up in the ‘potential hires’ section and the trash bin.

One of the best places to find inspiration is the hiring firm’s website. This gives you an idea of the organisation’s values and passions. For example, if the firm is dedicated to alleviating poverty in Africa, you can find reference to the continent’s millennium goals and include this in your cover letter introduction. Look out for the employer’s mission or vision statement and find a way to incorporate this.

Branding

Do you have a personal brand? This could be a slogan, mission or vision statement. Sell your personal brand by placing it close to the top of the cover letter. Another way of showing your individuality is by having a headline to your cover letter. This is most appropriately done by addressing a key concern, requirement or attribute that you think makes you the unique applicant, as well as that directly speaks to the employer.

Corroboration

Once you identify what is most important to the employer, find a way of proving or including testimonials of how your skills and achievements support the assertions you make about the expertise you have. You can do this in the way that most fits into your style. There is no format as long as it is easy to read and interesting.