DID YOU KNOW THAT, ACCORDING TO A WHOPPING 83% OF HIRING MANAGERS, COVER LETTERS PLAY AN INTEGRAL ROLE IN THEIR DECISION-MAKING PROCESS?
What’s more, 72% of them still expect you to submit an outstanding cover letter, even if this part is listed as optional on the job advert.
Now, you might be wondering why cover letters are so crucial in the tech job hunt. Well, if you ask our tech recruitment experts at Templeton, a well-crafted cover letter can make all the difference in landing your dream tech job.
But what exactly is a cover letter, and how to pen the one that’ll help you stand out in the tech job market?
WHAT IS A TECH COVER LETTER?
A tech cover letter is like the perfect sidekick to your CV on your job-hunting mission. While your CV provides a snapshot of your skills and experience, the cover letter allows you to showcase your passion, personality, and enthusiasm. More than just an introduction, this letter presents an amazing opportunity to tell your personal story and make an unforgettable first impression. It acts as a persuasive tool that entices hiring managers to dive deeper into your application and see how you align with the company’s values and what makes you a standout candidate for the role.
HOW TO WRITE THE PERFECT TECH COVER LETTER
The secret to making your tech cover letter remarkable is to infuse it with genuine excitement about the position you’re eyeing. Also, forget copy-pasting from your CV; use your cover letter as a canvas to expand on your achievements and tailor it precisely to each job you apply for.
Let’s explore some more key elements of a strong tech cover letter.
GRAB THEIR ATTENTION WITH A COMPELLING OPENER
The opening of your cover letter is your chance to captivate the reader and make a memorable first impression. Avoid old, cringe-worthy lines like “I am applying for the position advertised on platform X” or “I’d like to apply for a job at…” – they are outdated and sound like you have nothing better to say.
Instead, start with a bold statement that demonstrates your enthusiasm for the job, the industry, or the company itself. Consider sharing a personal anecdote, a relevant industry insight, or a unique perspective that sets you apart from other applicants. The goal is simple: leave the hiring manager eager for more.
RESEARCH THE COMPANY AND TAILOR YOUR LETTER
To make a lasting impression, it’s crucial to research the company thoroughly and tailor your cover letter accordingly. Start by reviewing the job description and identifying the key skills and qualifications sought by the employer. Then, delve deeper into the company’s website, social media platforms, and any recent news or press releases. This research will help you understand the company’s values, goals, and challenges, enabling you to craft a cover letter that speaks directly to their needs.
SHOWCASE YOUR VALUE AND ACHIEVEMENTS
Your cover letter should go beyond simply echoing the information on your resume. Instead, it should demonstrate how your skills and experience align perfectly with the company’s needs. You can start by identifying your most relevant accomplishments and linking them to the job requirements. To make your achievements stand out, quantify them with specific numbers or percentages whenever possible, showing how you deliver tangible results.
HIGHLIGHT YOUR SKILLS AND EXPERTISE
Tech skills are the stars of the show. Review the job description and identify the key technical skills the employer seeks and weave them into your cover letter, showcasing how your proficiency can add value to the team and contribute to the company’s success. Remember to balance both the technical skills listed in the job ad and the soft skills that are vital in the ever-changing tech world. This will demonstrate your ability to collaborate effectively and adapt to a dynamic work environment.
DEMONSTRATE YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF THE COMPANY
To truly stand out, showcase your in-depth knowledge of the company, its industry, and its goals. Show them you understand their challenges and explain how your skills and experience can contribute to the business’s growth and success. Share real-life examples of how you have addressed similar industry issues in the past, highlighting the positive outcomes you achieved. By demonstrating your familiarity and your genuine interest in the company, your passion for joining their team will shine through.
END ON A POSITIVE AND ACTIONABLE NOTE
What’s better than leaving a lasting impression with a stellar closing? As you conclude your cover letter, express gratitude for the reader’s time and consideration and your eagerness to explore the opportunity further. Encourage the hiring manager to reach out for a conversation or interview – it’s your chance to take the next step together. By ending on a positive and actionable note, your enthusiasm and motivation will speak volumes.
PROOFREAD AND POLISH YOUR MASTERPIECE
Before submitting your cover letter, it’s crucial to proofread it meticulously. Read through your cover letter multiple times, checking for any pesky typos, spelling mistakes, grammatical mishaps, or awkward phrasing. Consider asking a trusted friend or colleague to review it as well, as a fresh pair of eyes can often catch mistakes that you may have missed. Remember, a polished and error-free cover letter showcases your professionalism and attention to detail and will reflect positively on your candidacy.
You’re all set! With a tailored, engaging, and well-crafted cover letter, you’re ready to make waves in the tech world. Let your passion and skills shine through, and best of luck on your tech job journey!
