How to Write a Cover Letter that Complements Your CV and Resume

Feb 6, 2024

5 min read

A cover letter is a great opportunity to showcase your personality and skills that match the job you are applying for. It is not just a summary of your CV or resume, but a way to introduce yourself and explain why you are the best fit for the role. Here are some tips on how to write a cover letter that complements your CV and resume:

How to Write a Cover Letter that Complements Your CV and Resume

What is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a document that accompanies your CV and resume when you apply for a job. It is your opportunity to introduce yourself, highlight your relevant skills and experience, and explain why you are a suitable candidate for the position. A cover letter should not be a mere repetition of your CV and resume, but rather a complement that showcases your personality, motivation, and fit for the role.

Here are some tips on how to write a cover letter that complements your CV and resume:

Research the company and the job description.

Before you start writing, you should do some research on the company and the job description. This will help you tailor your cover letter to the specific needs and expectations of the employer. You should also find out the name and title of the person who will be reading your application, and address them accordingly.

Start with a catchy introduction.

The first paragraph of your cover letter should grab the attention of the reader and make them want to read more. You should briefly introduce yourself, state the position you are applying for, and mention how you learned about the opportunity. You should also include a hook that shows why you are interested in the job and what makes you stand out from other applicants.

Highlight your relevant skills and achievements.

The main body of your cover letter should focus on your relevant skills and achievements that match the job requirements. You should use specific examples from your previous work or academic experience to demonstrate how you have applied those skills and achieved those results. You should also quantify your achievements whenever possible, using numbers, percentages, or other metrics to show your impact.

Explain why you are a good fit for the role and the company.

The final paragraph of your cover letter should summarize why you are a good fit for the role and the company. You should emphasize how your skills, experience, and goals align with the company's mission, vision, and values. You should also express your enthusiasm for working with them and how you can contribute to their success.

End with a call to action.

The last sentence of your cover letter should end with a call to action that prompts the reader to take the next step in the hiring process. You should thank them for their time and consideration, and invite them to contact you for an interview or further discussion. You should also include your contact details and indicate your availability.

Conclusion

A powerful and engaging intro for your cover letter should:

Grab the attention of the reader with a strong opening sentence that highlights your main qualification or achievement.
Show enthusiasm and interest in the company and the role by mentioning something specific that you admire or relate to.
Demonstrate how you can add value to the organization by briefly outlining your relevant skills and experience that match the job requirements.
End with a clear and confident statement of your intention to discuss your application further in an interview.
Here is an example of a possible intro for a cover letter:

I was thrilled to see your posting for a marketing manager at ABC Inc., a company that I have long admired for its innovative and customer-focused approach. As a seasoned marketing professional with over 10 years of experience in developing and executing successful campaigns, I have the skills and expertise to help you achieve your goals and grow your brand. In my previous role as a senior marketing coordinator at XYZ Ltd., I led a team of 12 staff and managed a budget of $2 million, delivering projects that increased sales by 25%, customer retention by 15%, and brand awareness by 35%. I am eager to apply my creativity, leadership, and analytical skills to your exciting and challenging projects, and to join your dynamic and talented team. I would love to discuss this opportunity with you in more detail and show you how I can contribute to your success.