In any job market, it is difficult for one’s application to stand out amidst the giant stack of candidates competing for the same vacancy.
Fresh graduates pile on top of recently displaced workers; unemployed applicants go up against experienced veterans – all of them squaring off in a winner-takes-all recruitment battle royale.
The prize: being noticed, scoring an interview, and proving you’re the best candidate.
In a post-pandemic environment of hiring freezes, downsizing, and budget cuts, the competition for every single job opening has never been more ruthless – until now.
With just four lines, the following cover letter will ensure you capture the interest of human resources personnel and, at the very least, get called in for a meet-and-greet.
The cover letter
Your recent posting on XXX piqued my interest.
I’m looking for a company that is XXX, XXX, and a leader in its industry. With my XXX, XXX, and XXX skills, a mutually beneficial relationship is just one phone call away.
I look forward to hearing back from you shortly.
The breakdown
- Express your interest in the position;
- Highlight the type of company you want to work for;
- Associate your skill sets to the position;
- Suggest the interview;
- Assume you are getting a callback.
While most cover letters only highlight the candidate’s hopes of an interview, this is a short sales letter in disguise, utilising some basic psychology and simple closing techniques.
‘Your recent posting on XXX piqued my interest’
Showing interest in the position is no different than showing an interest – or even flirting – in someone. Be direct and don’t overdo it. Referencing where you saw the job position posted is your first step towards building a connection.
‘I’m looking for a company that is XXX, XXX, and a leader in its industry’
When you clearly define the type of organisation you’re looking for and relate it to their company, you build a secondary bond by showing an alignment of values or company culture.
Emphasising their leadership in an area or within an industry reminds them that quality candidates look to work with the best and, conversely, they should, too.
‘With my XXX, XXX, and XXX skills, a mutually beneficial relationship is just one phone call away’
By highlighting your top three skill sets in relation to the position, it shows you understand what they’re looking for, and previews how well you’ll fit and excel in that role.
And when you stress how both parties benefit, it also reveals you believe in winning and being a team player.
Putting forward an actionable plan with a subtle sense of mystery invokes curiosity and provides them with an easy way to satisfy it.
‘I look forward to hearing back from you shortly’
Finally, expressing the expectation of a response within a reasonable timeframe displays confidence and reinforces the urge for them to take action.
When you eventually find success using this cover letter, remember to pay it forward and share your winning story with others.