How to Structure Your Cover Letter: The 5 Key Parts You Need

There’s always the temptation to copy and paste the same dry cover letter for every job application, but a tailored, well-structured cover letter is the key to getting ahead in a competitive job market. While your resume gives a quick insight into your qualifications and experience, your cover letter is your chance to make a lasting first impression and convince your prospective employer that you are the best fit for the job. Here’s a quick breakdown of some of the critical, must-have elements of a good cover letter.

1. Date and job application reference numbers

Many people don’t date their cover letters, but this is a mistake! Don’t skimp on this detail, as it signals to the hiring manager that your cover letter has been tailored to their job application.

Additionally, if there is a job application reference number on the job ad (usually at the top next to the job title), include this detail before diving into the body of your cover letter to create a more ATS-friendly application. Companies using ATS software may use a job application reference number to auto-reject applications that don’t include it.

2. Greeting

This is an excellent opportunity to show you have thoroughly read the job ad. “Dear Hiring Manager” is a fine, but impersonal greeting.

Instead, many job ads will have a contact person’s name somewhere in the ad (probably at the bottom), and it can make a big impression to address your cover letter specifically to the person who has been tasked with finding the perfect candidate.

3. Opening Paragraph

Your opening paragraph is your chance to hook your reader! Get creative and show enthusiasm to stand out from the other applicants.

This is the perfect time to highlight a relevant past achievement and present yourself as a strong candidate with relevant experience.

You could also discuss details in the job description or a company value that attracted you to apply. This is the perfect opportunity to show them you’ve researched the company and its mission statement.

4. Relevant Experience

Now is the time to wow your reader with stories of your relevant qualifications, transferable skills, and experience. Don’t miss this chance to tell your prospective employer what you are bringing with you into the role and how it will benefit them in the future.

Be sure to take note of keywords in the job description and incorporate them into your cover letter — this is essential in the age of AI hiring.

5. Closing Paragraph

It’s time to wrap it up by reiterating your interest in the role and the company. Feel free to summarise (again) how the job and company align well with your career goals and personal values.

Leave a lasting impression of confidence by expressing eagerness to discuss your application further in an interview.

Politeness is a must in your cover letter sign off, so remember to thank the reader for their time and sign off your cover letter with language such as “Kind regards” or “Sincerely” for an extra touch of professionalism.

Using this structure, your cover letter should be three to four paragraphs long and no longer than a page. Remember, if a person is reading your cover letter, they probably have to sift through heaps, so keep it concise yet impactful. Your cover letter should highlight your strengths, convey your enthusiasm, and leave a strong impression to increase your chances of landing an interview.