Use this as a guide for professional communication
Article Sections
- The HIVE Cover Letter Template
- Salutation
- 1st Paragraph: ALL ABOUT YOU
- Next Paragraph(s): CONNECTIONS TO INDUSTRY & COMPANY/POSITION
- Closing Paragraph
The HIVE Cover Letter Template
Salutation
Start your cover letter off on the right foot by addressing the hiring manager. If you can, find out the name of the hiring manager for the role you’re applying for. Reread the job description to see if it’s listed there or check the company website. It’s also an option to call the company and ask for the hiring manager’s name. Explain that you are applying for a job and would like to address your cover letter to the correct person. It’s not necessary to add Mr., Mrs. or Ms. since it may require some guesswork about gender and marital status on your part—just use their first and last name: “Dear Alex Johnson.” If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, stick with “Dear Hiring Manager.” Avoid outdated greetings such as “Dear Sir or Madam” or “To Whom It May Concern.”
1st Paragraph: ALL ABOUT YOU
The opening paragraph is your chance to catch the hiring manager’s attention, introduce yourself and enthusiastically tell the employer why you’re applying for the job. You’ll want to make this paragraph specific to each job listing you apply for. Include why you’re excited about the job and the company, and how the job lines up with your career goals. Avoid making this paragraph sound formulaic by including keywords from the job posting and matching your skills to the employer’s requirements. Describe who you are, where you’re from (if applicable), what you’re studying in school, and how you found the position. If you were referred to this job by someone who knows the hiring manager or already works at this company, you may want to mention this referral in your opening paragraph.
Next Paragraph(s): CONNECTIONS TO INDUSTRY & COMPANY/POSITION
Now that you’ve introduced yourself and established your enthusiasm, it’s time to dig into your most relevant experience and talk about the specific qualifications and skills that make you the perfect candidate. In one or two paragraphs, make the connection between your previous accomplishments and your readiness for this new role. Think of these paragraphs as a way to pitch yourself as the ideal match for the role. Employers will likely have read your resume already, so avoid repeating the bullet points. Instead, include details that more deeply illustrate those highlights.
- BRIDGE YOUR SKILLS AND INTERESTS TO THE INDUSTRY: Talk about why you’re interested in and qualified for the INDUSTRY. Mention classes, experiences, and internships that have encouraged you to pursue a career in the industry. You can also note any networking you’ve done to confirm and learn more about your interest here.
- BRIDGE YOUR INTERESTS TO THE COMPANY: Talk about your specific interests in the company, showing that you’ve done research into who they are and why they’re so impressive. Don’t tell them who they are – they know that. Tell them why YOU are so excited about working there based on your personal and professional interests. Highlight current successes they’ve had and demonstrate you are aware of what they’re most proud of most recently.
- BRIDGE YOUR SKILLS TO THE JOB: Look at the job description and give examples of how you are specifically prepared for the job – look at requisite skills etc and demonstrate how your background fits what they’re calling for most specifically.
Closing Paragraph
The main goal of your closing paragraph is to thank the employer for their time and consideration. You also have the option of making any clarifications. For example, you can justify any major gaps in your employment history. You can also use this space, to sum up your qualifications for the role and express an interest in continuing to the next stage in the hiring process.
🐝 HIVE Helper: Example Cover Letter – CLICK HERE