I’m always on the lookout for good short articles on cover letters.
The link below from Seek uses a nice infographic to show the distinction between a good cover letter and a bad cover letter.
https://www.seek.com.au/career-advice/article/cover-letters-the-good-and-the-bad
One of the great things about cover letters is you sell yourself straight up.
Think of your cover letter as a laser beam. It has to focus sharply on aspects of the advertised role.
By that I mean, every paragraph contains a well thought out reason why they should employ you.
Each paragraph should include your relevant or transferable experience and achievements, academic qualifications and maybe volunteer work.
At the start of your cover letter explain which job you’re applying for.
You can either do this on a line by itself, (e.g., Application for Stock Controller position”) or in the opening paragraph.
I always include a professional motivation for applying in the second or third paragraph.
What is it about that particular job that draws you in like a magnet?
If there’s personal motivation, include a line or two about that too.
Keep a formal tone.
Remember, your cover letter doesn’t simply repeat what’s already in the resume.
I try to find out the surname of the hiring manager as an added personal touch but that’s not always possible.
Check the cover letter for spelling and grammar mistakes.
You don’t have to give your postal address, but you do need to include your email and phone number. Make sure you’ll be able to answer the phone number you give.