#1: Know Your Stuff (a.k.a. Understand the Job Description)

Picture this: you walk into a party and start talking to someone about their favorite band, only to realize you don't even know who the band members are. That's what it's like when you write a cover letter without understanding the job description—it's awkward and it shows.

The job description is like your secret weapon. It's filled with clues about what the employer is looking for. And the best part? They've done all the work for you! All you've got to do is read it, understand it, and use it to your advantage.

Ever heard of the saying "knowledge is power"? Well, in this case, knowledge is the power to craft a cover letter that's spot-on. So, grab that highlighter, mark those key skills and responsibilities, and let's get to work!

#2: Be You (a.k.a. Personalize Your Letter)

Remember that party scenario? Well, now imagine you're talking to someone and they keep calling you by the wrong name. Doesn't feel too good, does it? That's how hiring managers feel when they read a generic cover letter. It's impersonal and it doesn't feel good.

Now, what if you were to use their name? Mention something you admire about the company? Show them why you and the company are a perfect match? Now we're talking!

Personalizing your cover letter shows that you care. It says, "Hey, I took the time to learn about you because this role matters to me." It's like writing a letter to a friend—it's warm, it's genuine, and it's definitely memorable.

#3: Show Off (a.k.a. Showcase Your Skills in an Unforgettable Cover Letter)

So, you've got skills. That's great! But how are you going to convince them that you're the right person for the job? Simple: show them.

Don't just tell them you've got great communication skills—show them. Talk about that time you facilitated a team meeting, or that project where your communication skills were crucial. It's like showing a movie of your skills in action. It's engaging, it's evidence-based, and it's sure to impress.

Remember, this is your chance to shine. So, go ahead and strut your stuff—politely, of course.

#4: Tell a Tale (a.k.a. Tell a Story to make it an Unforgettable Cover Letter)

Ever find yourself hooked on a TV show or a book? That's the power of a good story—it's engaging, it's emotive, and it's hard to forget.

Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story. It could be about that time you led a project against all odds, or how you solved a challenging problem. It's about bringing your skills and experiences to life in a way that's so captivating, they'll want to know what happens next (hint: you getting the job).

#5: Be a Doer, Not a Sayer (a.k.a. Use Actionable Language for an Unforgettable Cover Letter)

Ever met someone who's all talk and no action? It's not very convincing, is it? That's why in your cover letter, you want to be a doer, not just a sayer.

Here's how: use actionable language. Actionable language is your friend. It's dynamic, it's persuasive, and it shows you're a person who gets things done. Use strong action verbs like "led", "managed", "developed", or "achieved". Paint a clear picture of your skills and experiences. Remember, your goal is to convince the employer that you're not just capable of taking action, but that you're all about delivering results.

Think about it like this: if your cover letter was a movie, actionable language would be the action scenes. It's exciting, it's engaging, and it's what leaves people on the edge of their seats.

Indeed Career Guide: 6 Secrets To Writing A Great Cover Letter

#6: Double Check (a.k.a. Proofread Your Letter)

Alright, let's be real. We've all sent a text or an email with a typo in it. It's a little embarrassing, right? Now, imagine making a typo in your cover letter—that's a whole new level of embarrassment.

That's why proofreading your cover letter is so important. Not only does it save you from potential embarrassment, but it also shows the employer that you're meticulous, you're professional, and you take this opportunity seriously.

When it comes to proofreading, don't just rely on spellcheck. Read your cover letter out loud, ask someone else to take a look at it, and make sure your formatting is on point. After all, your cover letter isn't just a reflection of your skills and experiences—it's a reflection of your professionalism.

#7: Wrap It Up (a.k.a. Conclude Your Letter)

Now that we've covered all the bases, it's time to bring it home. A good conclusion isn't just a summary of your cover letter—it's your final pitch, your last chance to leave a lasting impression.

Final Thoughts on Unforgettable Cover Letter

Reiterate why you're a great fit for the role and the company. Show them that you're not just interested in the job, but you're excited about it. And most importantly, thank them for their time.

Remember, the goal isn't just to end your cover letter, but to end it on a high note.

FAQs on Unforgettable Cover Letter

Finally, let's address some of the common questions you might have:

How long should my unforgettable cover letter be?

Your cover letter should be like a good conversation—long enough to cover the essentials, but short enough to keep them interested. So, aim for one page, maximum.

The Muse: The 4 Sentence Cover Letter That Gets You The Job Interview

Do I need to include every skill mentioned in the job description?

Not at all. Just like you wouldn't bring up every single topic in a conversation, you don't have to include every skill. Focus on the most relevant ones, and illustrate how you've used these skills in the past.

Career Contessa: The Perfect Cover Letter Template to Show Off Your Skills

What if I can’t find the hiring manager’s name for personalization?

No worries! If you can't find the name of the hiring manager, a simple "Dear Hiring Manager" will do.

How do I tell a story without making my unforgettable cover letter too long?

Keep it short and sweet. Choose a specific experience or project, focus on the actions you took and the results you achieved.

Forbes: How To Write A Cover Letter

What are some common mistakes to avoid when proofreading?

Watch out for spelling and grammatical errors, inconsistent formatting, and too much jargon. Also, make sure your letter is addressed to the right company and position.

Access the entire resource library on Cover Letters Here