How to Tailor Your Cover Letter to a Job Description?

More than 90% of hiring managers think that GOOD cover letters are crucial. Most of them complain that candidates don't spend time crafting a good one.

Usually, most of the candidates use generic cover letter templates and apply for multiple jobs without changing much. And because of this, the hiring manager, who probably seen hundreds of applications thinks that you didn't take it seriously, because you didn't give time to create a unique and tailored cover letter for the job.

But maybe you don't know how to customize it perfectly as per the job. So, if that's your problem, we have the solution. As this blog has some really crucial tips for you.

Tips to Customize a Cover Letter for Each Job:

1. Check for Important Instructions for that job.
2. Make it different from your resume.
3. Don't Be Generic, Names Matter
4. Customize the opening paragraph.
5. Do Good Research about the company and the position.
6. Keep it short but valuable.
7. Highlight how you can add value with experience and qualifications.
8. Customize the closing paragraph.
9. Seek opinion or guidance.

1. Check for Important Instructions for that Job

Either you are applying for a job via linked, Indeed or any other platform, the description of the job tells you the whole story that which type of the person the company is looking for. Gather important clues like if the job descriptions have mentioned several tools that the candidate should know and have experience in. So, It is a great signal that if you put that into your cover letter than there is a big chance that they'll consider you.

• Search for important skills that are required.
• Gather information on how you can fit in as per their requirements.
• Make a list of crucial points from the job description.
• Do not copy and paste everything they want.

2. Make it different from your Resume

Do not repeat the information on your resume. But you can use your cover letter to clarify the things in your resume in more detail. As this will help you build a solid impression. And one more important thing is that while putting so much effort into your cover letter, don’t forget your CV. As it is also crucial, you should seek help from CV editing experts to complete it perfectly. To make your cover letter BETTER, you should:

• Sell yourself and tell them why you are the right one.
• Present and showcase your skills with more depth.
• Highlight specific areas where you can contribute and make a difference.

3. Don't Be Generic, Names Matter

Do not use generic cover letters. You shouldn't start with "To whom it may concern." You should use the name instead. Also, do not use gender-specific language like "Sir" or "Madam." Instead, you can write like this: "Dear, Hiring Manager." If you know the name, then it would be best. For that, you have to dig in and do some research. But it is good to have a name, as this will not sound generic or impersonal.

4. Customize the Opening Paragraph

You shouldn't use the same opening paragraph for multiple job posts. The opening paragraph is one of the most crucial things, and that is why you have to customize it. Try to align your ideas and goals with the company's objectives and show them that you have done research about the company. Crafting a strong and meaningful first paragraph can make a good impression.

The Opening paragraph should be like this:

"I'm really excited to apply for the job for digital marketing expert at your company (company name), I understand and appreciate that you are hiring digital marketing experts for your production department, I believe that my skills in empowering and strengthening businesses, I believe in my skills, and as expert in handling marketing campaigns, I would love to be a member of your company and help your company grow"

5. Do Good Research about the Company and the Position

See the company's website, Social media pages, and LinkedIn to know about the services of products they offer. And what is the nature of the company, as understanding the environment, values, and recognition of the company will make it easier for you to point out the qualities they are looking for in a candidate.

6. Keep it Short but Valuable

Keeping it short doesn't mean to you make bullet points, no, it means add all the information that is necessary in a concise manner. Don't drag too much, and don't make it too long that it irritates the manager, or sound too forcefully convincing. Try to be original, and add everything that you think is necessary for them.

7. Highlight how you can add value with Experience and Qualifications

Don't just tell them you have experience, instead show them by adding the terminologies and jargon or technical knowledge that aligns with the job requirement to show them that you actually know these things and you know how to get the things done, right.

8. Seek Opinion or Guidance

The best time-saving thing you can do is to seek guidance and help to ensure that your cover letter works best for you. Contact any cover letter writing agency or ask any expert for assistance. As, this will save a lot of your time.

Conclusion

Crafting a unique cover letter shows that you've done research and are capable of delivering the results the company is looking for. The key takeaways are to keep it short but valuable, not just tell them your experience but show them what you are capable of, and the most important of all: don't use generic templates or generic writing. By following these tips, you'll have a better chance of getting a response.