The Secret Sauce to Writing a Standout Cover Letter

Probably, the most deadly exercise after coming out of university is to write a cover letter. You’ve prepared your CV but then comes the part where you need to try selling yourself on one page without sounding like any other applicant. So what do you do? You fire up an empty document, stare at the screen for a few minutes, and then begin thinking, “How in the world do I begin?” The next thing you know, you’re Googling “How to write a cover letter” then ending up on pages filled with generic templates that you want to cry about? Or maybe someone’s asked you to write a cover letter but doesn’t know how to avoid writing something that sounds like you’re copying and pasting off the internet. Well, don’t worry-you’re not alone.

Writing a cover letter that stands out doesn’t have to be agony. You can craft one that is authentic, shows your best qualities, and stands out-without sounding like someone who filled in the blanks on some “fill-in-the-blank” template. Okay, down to business now, and get you started writing a cover letter that best reflects you: unique, fresh, and ready to take on the job market!

1. Understanding the Job and Company You’re Applying For

Take some time, before starting to hit the keys on your laptop to investigate the company. A generic letter will scream “I did not bother looking into you,” and that is not a good impression that you would want to make. Take some time going through their website, look them up through social media, and read some of their news.

Example: If you’re applying to a sustainable fashion brand, don’t just say, “I love fashion.” Instead, say something like: “I’ve followed your brand’s commitment to sustainability for a while now, and I’m excited about how you’re using recycled materials in your collections. As someone who’s passionate about eco-friendly practices, I’d love to contribute to your mission.”

Want to research like a pro?

Check out this video from YouTube about How to Research a Company Like a Pro to really find what makes the company tick.

2. Open Strong and Avoid the Clichés

None of us likes reading that one thing again and again-“I am writing to apply for the XYZ position”-just so boring, overused, and personality-deprived. Twist it up a little: snatch attention from the very first word itself.

Example: “I have followed XYZ company for months now, and when I read about your latest initiative to (mention something specific), I knew I had to apply.

You’ve already done your homework, so now show it off! If the company recently launched a new project or made headlines for something cool, tie it into your introduction to show that you’re genuinely interested.

3. Showcase Your Personality But Don’t Overdo It

It’s not a formal essay – let it be your opportunity to let the really personal you shine through! Remember, your tone is everything. You want to sound personal and professional, but not like you are writing a text to your best friend.

Example: Don’t be stiff and robotic. If you are applying to a creative field, be a little playful: “I’m such a believer in creativity whether it’s creating digital campaigns or coming up with new ways of entertaining my friends over dinner.” 

But don’t go nuts – you’re still writing a professional cover letter, not a meme.

 4. Focus on What You Can Offer, Not Just What You’ve Done

It’s tempting to list every achievement and skill you’ve got, but your cover letter should focus on how you can add value to the company. Hiring managers want to know what’s in it for them.

Example: Instead of saying, “I’m a hard worker with great communication abilities,” try: “During my final year, I worked on a marketing project that increased our social media following 25% in just three months, and I’m excited to bring that same energy to your marketing team.”

Pro Tip: Remember to connect your skills to what’s in the job description. Show them why you’re the solution to their needs, not just a list of qualifications.

5. Keep It Concise – No Over-explaining

Let’s be honest: no one’s got time to read a 5-paragraph cover letter. Hiring managers are busy, so make every sentence count. Stick to one page, and make sure every line adds value.

Example: If you are talking about an achievement, do not keep going on and on about it. Keep it to the point – “Led a team of five for a marketing competition, which we won first place” is all you need.

6. End With a Strong Call to Action

Don’t leave your cover letter hanging! End with something that shows your enthusiasm and invites them to take action.

Example: “I would love the opportunity to discuss how my skills can benefit XYZ Company. I’m available for an interview at your earliest convenience.”

You’ve done the hard work, so don’t be shy about showing that you’re excited to take the next step!

Conclusion

And now, the final product: you are ready to write a cover letter that is anything but generic. Remember, it’s about showing your personality and unique skills and proving that you are the person best suited for that job. It is the time and moment to make a lasting impression, so go ahead!

Still not sure? If you need a bit more motivation, consider checking out Mentoria’s Job Ready Plans. Personalised mentorship, expert guidance, and tips from professionals in the field will get you lined up with a job that could be your dream.

Great – go ahead now and write this cover letter of yours that will get you noticed. You got this!