Let’s be honest – we all dread writing cover letters, and the task can feel overwhelming. Even experienced professionals have that moment of panic when staring at a blank screen, wondering what to say about their qualifications and experience.
An impactful cover letter does not have to be perfect. It just needs to be purposeful. That is where the “Three Cs” come in – your cover letter needs to be clear, concise, and compelling.
Creating Clarity in a Cover Letter
Clarity is about writing with intention. In your cover letter, avoid vague phrases. Use direct language and active voice to show your confidence and professionalism.
Also, avoid being too casual or overly formal in your tone. Be sure to retain your own voice.
Rather than saying “I am writing to express my interest in your open position,” you could phrase it differently. You could express your statement of interest as “I am excited to apply for the Marketing Coordinator role because it aligns with my passion for brand storytelling.”
Why does clarity matter? Clarity builds trust. It shows you understand the role for which you’re applying and can communicate effectively; these two traits are valuable to every employer.
Showing Conciseness: Less Is More
Hiring managers spend around 10 seconds scanning a cover letter, so that means every word in your cover letter must count. Keep your cover letter brief and use three short paragraphs that:
- Hook the reader with your enthusiasm and relevance
- Highlight one or two of your achievements that match the job
- Provide a reason for the hiring manager to take action and contact you
Why does being concise matter? A concise cover letter respects the hiring manager’s time and makes your message easier to comprehend.
Being Compelling: Make Your Cover Letter Memorable
A cover letter is your chance to tell your unique story and persuade a hiring manager to consider you for an interview. For example, you could share a moment that connects your experience to the company’s mission. Reference something specific about the organization and explain why it has resonated with you.
If your cover letter is compelling, it becomes more memorable. You show that you have done your homework and genuinely care about the job opportunity.
When to Include a Cover Letter and When You Can Skip It
Depending upon the job posting, it may or may not be necessary to include a cover letter with your application and resume. According to CareerOneStop, include a cover letter when:
- The job posting requests one
- You’re applying directly to a company
- You’re making a career pivot or need to explain a situation, such as a career gap or a relocation
- You want to emphasize your alignment with the company’s mission or culture
- You have been referred to the position and want to highlight the referral
You can skip the inclusion of a cover letter when:
- The application system will not allow one
- The job posting clearly states not to include a cover letter
- You have already had a conversation with the hiring manager and are submitting a resume because of your conversation
Final Tips
A cover letter is more than a formality; it is your chance to form a human connection with the hiring manager. By following the “Three Cs,” you can transform a dreaded task into a powerful opportunity.
Remember, even career coaches like me have said, “I dread writing cover letters!” But with the right frame of mind and a clear structure, you can write a letter that is not simply good, but authentic and memorable.
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