When it comes to writing cover letters, we wonder if the hiring personnel even bother reading them? Or is it just okay to simply send the resume to get the job done?
Simply speaking, there are times when a cover letter may be required, while at other times your resume will be just enough.

On the other hand what a cover letter really does is to provide you with a competitive edge that may not come along with a resume. The cover letter will boost your writing potential and show details not usually contained in the resume. It will showcase your passion and a clear indication that you have put considerable time and effort in applying for the job.

However, do note that a poorly written cover letter does more harm than good. Besides the grammatical discrepancies, using a standard cover letter for all the jobs, or using one without changing the name of the company is simply going to land your application in the bin.
The point is if you are inclined to include a cover letter in your job application, it's better to write it in the best manner possible:

1. Header-
The extent of formality the header will represent will depend on the company you’re applying for. If you’re applying in a formal company, it is vital to use a formal header to initiate the cover letter. Add the date, your address and the business’s address. However, if the place you’re applying is not formal, then it’s not important to include your and the company’s address, but the date could be added.

2. Greeting-
Writing “To Whom It May Concern” is acceptable. However, it’s always better to inquire the details of the company or hiring personnel beforehand. If you have conducted a thorough research but still not sure regarding the authenticity of the hiring manager’s name. Then, it makes sense to use a general greeting. But if you’re sure regarding the information found, then try to incorporate the name reasonably in order to catch the eye of the recruiter.

3. Paragraph 1: Introduction-
The opening paragraph of the cover letter should contain around 1-2 sentences. State the reason(s) why you’re so tempted to apply for the position and what makes you the best fit. Don't go into much details about why you are the best candidate. Remember, you should stay strictly to the point. Don’t stress on where you heard about the job and if there is an acquaintance of yours at the company.

4. Paragraph 2: The Reason Stating You’re the Best Fit for the Job-
This is where you’ll be selling yourself with the help of a couple of strong examples clearly explaining why the HR personnel should consider you as the best fit for the job.
What are the projects you worked on that could be beneficial for the new organization? How will your past experience help this company excel from several aspects? Try to stay as humble as you can in expressing yourself along with using the best possible words showcasing your worth.

5. Paragraph 3: How the Company is the Right Fit for You-
As much as it is important to consider a job that you are the right fit for, it is equally vital to see if the company is also the right one for you. Normally, a cover letter explains why you’re the right person for the company. Though what will you gain when it comes to getting hired? What applicants should importantly understand is that HR personnel want to know the reason why their place appeals to you.
It is essential you explain how much serious you are to nurture your career by working in the company. What appeals and excites you about the workplace and how effectively your goals align with those of the company?

6. Effective Closing Paragraph-
Don’t take the final closing sentences of the cover letter lightly, try to finish as strongly as possible. Stay strictly to the point about your interests and passion taking the new position without signing off too powerfully. It is important to tell them regarding your availability to talk about the position and offer by mentioning your contact information and email address.
The recruiter here will decide on whether to follow-up on you or not.
Remember to insert a ‘Thanks’ for their time and consideration.

7. Formal Sign-Off-
Use a formal signing off such as “Best”, “All the Best”, “Sincerely”, followed by adding your complete name.
The cover letter doesn’t need to be signed with a pen though.

What most applicants fail to understand is that some HR personnel have a keen observing ability. They’ll happily search for little mistakes and cross-check the content of the letter with your resume. So, it’s better to sync the content as neatly as possible.


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