How to Write a Job-Winning Cover Letter by Kaleema Muhammad

Kaleema Muhammad, CEO of an online resume-writing business, leverages her experience at Big 4 CPA and Fortune 500 companies to empower job seekers with job-winning resumes. She is also a motivational speaker, youth mentor, spiritual healer, and writer dedicated to positively impacting others.

A cover letter is more than a formality; it’s a powerful part of your job application that can be the difference between landing an interview and being overlooked. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to crafting a standout cover letter, complete with structure, examples, and tips.

Understanding the Purpose of a Cover Letter

A cover letter introduces you to potential employers, offering a glimpse of your personality, enthusiasm, and fit for the role—something a resume alone can’t convey. It demonstrates your knowledge of the company and highlights your relevant skills and achievements, helping you stand out from other applicants.

Preparing to Write Your Cover Letter

• Before starting, invest time in research:

• Learn About the Company: Familiarize yourself with the company’s mission, values, and recent news.

• Understand the Role: Review the job description to identify key skills and responsibilities.

• Reflect on Your Experience: Think about your most relevant experiences and accomplishments.

Cover Letter Structure

• A cover letter generally includes these sections:

• Header: Your contact information, followed by the employer’s details.

• Salutation: Greet the hiring manager by name, if possible.

Introduction: A strong opening that mentions the position and expresses excitement about the role.

Body: One to three paragraphs outlining your qualifications.

Closing: Summarize your interest and encourage further contact.

Signature: Sign your name or type it if sending electronically.

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Your Cover Letter

Step 1: Header 

Start your cover letter with a header that includes your full name, address, phone number, email, and date. Then, add the company details: hiring manager’s name, company name, and full mailing address.

Example:

Olivia Wilson
San Francisco, CA 94016
(123) 456-7890
oliviaw@reallygreatsite.com


July 26, 2024

John Smith
XYZ Corporation
5678 Elm Street
San Francisco, CA 94016

Step 2: Salutation

Address the hiring manager by name, or use “Dear Hiring Manager” if unknown.

Example: Dear Mr. Smith,

Step 3: Introduction

Capture attention by stating the role you’re applying for and where you found it, with a brief statement of your excitement for the position.

Example:

“I am excited to apply for the accountant position at XYZ Corporation, as advertised on your website. With a passion for financial accuracy, I am eager to bring my expertise to your team.”

Step 4: Body

This section details your qualifications and can be divided into paragraphs.

Example: “With five years of accounting experience, I’ve managed financial records and conducted audits to ensure accuracy. At ABC Company, I streamlined the monthly closing process, reducing time by 20% and improving report accuracy. Your commitment to financial excellence aligns with my background, and I am confident my analytical abilities will benefit XYZ Corporation.”

Step 5: Closing

Reiterate your enthusiasm and invite the employer to contact you. If you send a physical letter, include a handwritten signature above your typed name. If you are sending an email, a typed name is sufficient.

Example: “I look forward to discussing how my skills and experiences can contribute to your team’s success. Thank you for considering my application.” Sincerely, Olivia Wilson

Tips for a Standout Cover Letter

• Strong Opening: Clearly state the position and why you’re excited about it.

• Key Qualifications: Highlight relevant skills and achievements.

• Company Fit: Show how you align with the company’s goals and values.

• Action Verbs: Use strong verbs to describe your accomplishments.

• Quantify Achievements: Provide metrics to back up your claims.

• Professional Tone: Keep it professional yet positive.

• Proofread: Ensure your cover letter is error-free.

To illustrate the tips and structure discussed, here’s a complete sample cover letter:

Learn more about Kaleema at www.ttasresumes.com, Instagram @ttasresumes

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