Cover your back with our cover letter tips!

Do you use the same cover letter for every job application? It’s not a bad thing, but there are ways to really optimise your chances with every application you send! In our cover letter tips, we'll explain why each and every application should be as tailored to the role as possible. This approach should include your cover letters too!

We suggest having a nice collection, perhaps two or three, of cover letter templates ready to send off! 

How to tailor your cover letter

Have a real thorough read through the job description in front of you. Now look at your cover letter. Does the cover letter target the employer in the best way possible? Your CV will list your skills and achievements, but you want the CV to be succinct. What do you want your cover letter to say? Try to weed out the most desired requirements for the role and work from there.

The cover letter should include three to four paragraphs. The first paragraph should catch attention immediately, by highlighting what you are doing right now and the amazing things you are achieving. You want them to know how relevant you are straight away, so show your potential!

Why should I have more than one cover letter?

We are not saying start a new cover letter EVERY time you apply to a role. Having two or three outlines which can be easily changed for each role is a great way to target the employer personally. The reason we suggest 2-3 cover letter templates, is because of what is required of you will differ slightly from role to role. For example, there is an opening for an Online Marketing Manager for a luxury online fashion brand. There is also a vacancy for an online marketing manager for an online beauty products brand.

Let’s pretend our candidate, Pauline the Panda, is really interested in both fashion and beauty. Both these roles are a good fit. The fashion brand requires someone who can manage and really push forward a passionate email campaign. The beauty brand, however, doesn’t specify email as a priority (they have an email marketing manager). You won’t want to waste word count on your email marketing experience therefore. On the fashion application, focus on your achievements with your previous email campaigns.

It is all about tailoring. However, never leave anything out. If email marketing is a strength, but isn’t a priority, list it briefly with your general background. Save the real meat of the letter for the achievements the employer will care about.

Quick cover letter tips

• Be honest about what you’re looking for, and why this job is perfect for you!
• Limit the cover letter to one page, ensuring the most targeted information is there.
• Be confident. Why not state your desire to meet the employer face to face, rather than politely declare you await their response?
• Proofread! This is important for your CV too!
• Try to address it as personally as possible. Do your research, and you might get more information on the hiring body!
• Lastly, present your contact details in the correct format and make sure they’re all up to date!

We pandas are all about creating happiness, one job at a time! We hope our tips get you one step closer to achieving that dream role. Read more career advice.