Creating a value added targeted CV and Cover Letter is one of the first hurdles a job hunter must overcome in order to land their dream job. Below are five tips which should help you in this journey.
Tip 1: Write a targeted Cover Letter
The easiest fall back for many job hunters, who are applying for multiple positions with multiple firms, is to write a one size fits all cover letter. However the success rate at being called for interview is much higher is you send less and focus on sending highly targeted cover letters which address and match the employer’s criteria. A targeted cover letter will also display how you can do the job and add value to the organisation
Tip 2: Use Sales Techniques to grab attention in the Cover Letter
Good salespeople rarely focus merely on the features of a product during the sales process but they also focus on the benefits to the potential buyer.
In the case of a cover letter, at the start of each sentence, detail your features (skills, knowledge, and experience (etc.)) and in the second half, detail the benefits/outcomes to your potential employers. Below is an example
“ As a result of implementing a dual branding campaign, sales increased by 30% in the first six months after the launch, which equated to a 3% increase in market share which resulted in €800,000 in incremental sales”
A potential employer will be impressed that you have not only outlined a feature, “dual branding”, which was set as one of the main criteria in the job advertisement, but that you have measured the outcomes in specific terms
Tip 3: Ensure that highlighted Features and Benefits in your cover letter are to the fore in your CV
This goes without saying that the value adding features and benefits you include in your cover letter should be easily found and expanded on within your CV. These features and outcomes are your biggest sales tool as it specifically meets the job criteria.
Tip 4: Use the language of Sales
It is good to think of your Cover Letter as a Sales Letter. It is important to use words that evoke enthusiasm and passion. Personally, I use a book titled “Words that sell” by Bayan, which is an excellent resource with options of over 6,000 words to use in different scenarios.
Tip 5: Be Concise and Request One Action
Less is more especially when it comes to cover letters. Focus on the top three benefits you can bring to your potential employer and avoid including achievement s which are not related to the advertised position.
The last important thing that you should include in your cover letter is by finishing with a “Call to Action”. This may be something along the lines of “I am excited by the Sales Director position with XYZ. Feel free to reach me on 087-654 321 to schedule an interview at your earliest convenience.
Writing a compelling value added cover letter will help ensure that you are well on your way to crossing that first hurdle of getting an interview
To read about 5 questions you should not ask in an interview, please click here>>>
