A Tribute to the Cover Letter!
The cover letter. A powerful tool. In practice, we often see that the cover letter’s potential isn’t always fully realized. That’s a shame. After all, it’s what sets you apart. It’s the best way to add value to your application. And the more specific your ambition and motivation are, the better you can assess whether an organization is a good fit for you. In this blog, I’ll walk you through the common pitfalls and offer you tips for writing a standout cover letter.
Expansive or staccato?
This seems to be the unwritten rule for every cover letter. It makes sense, because it shows that you’ve put a lot of time and effort into the letter. But the (sometimes large) amount of text makes it difficult for the reader to distinguish the main points from the details. And let’s be honest: in the world of recruitment, not every recruiter spends the same amount of time on a letter that’s been carefully crafted. The end result: your letter remains (partly) unread. A missed opportunity.
What then?
Not too long, not too short. So what’s the right length? There’s no such thing as a perfect standard for a cover letter. And that’s exactly why it offers opportunities. It gives you the chance to add value to your application in your own way. To show right from the start who you are and what matters to you. Or maybe you don’t quite fit the job description 100%, but you do share the same vision? Or are you already bursting with ideas for the new job?
– Carlijn Cornelissen
A few tips
- Every job is different, and so is your motivation. Tailor your motivation to the job.
- The word says it all: motivation. Explain why this opportunity excites you. Why is it such a good fit for you? And try to elaborate on concepts like freedom, flexibility, and professional growth. It might seem obvious to you, but the more specific you are, the better the reader gets to know you.
- Think in advance about what you want to convey to the reader. Which elements should leave a lasting impression?
- Explain how you plan to make this project a success. Don’t be modest—share the ideas you already have. Surprise the reader.
- Don’t use the cover letter to recount the details of your resume. That information is already included in your resume.
- Think of it as an opportunity. Explain why you’re the right fit for this position, even if you don’t quite meet the required qualifications. After all, it’s about the future, not what you’ve done in the past.
In short, every cover letter is unique. Just like you. That said, a unique cover letter is easier to write when your ambition and motivation are clear. And that can sometimes be difficult. With the Velde Method © , that is the starting point. I’d be happy to help you.
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