What Recruiters Look For in Cover Letters in 2023

When you're applying for a job, it's important to make sure your resume and cover letter are as polished as possible. After all, first impressions are key! But what do recruiters look for specifically when they're reading cover letters? They want to see that you have the skills and qualifications that match the job description. In addition, they want to see that you are motivated and enthusiastic about the position. Finally, they want to see that you are able to communicate effectively. Here are some tips to help you stand out.

Keep it Short and Sweet

Given that a hiring manager's time is limited, it's important to make sure that your cover letter is concise and to the point. The best way to do this is to keep it to a maximum of three paragraphs, with each paragraph focusing on a different key point. In the first paragraph, briefly introduce yourself and explain why you are interested in the position. In the second paragraph, highlight your most relevant qualifications and skills. 

Finally, in the third paragraph, thank the reader for their time and express your interest in meeting to discuss the role further. By following this simple structure, you can be sure that your cover letter will make a strong impression without overloading the reader with information.

Highlight Your Accomplishments

This is your chance to really sell yourself, so don't be shy about highlighting your accomplishments! Include any awards or recognition you've received, as well as any relevant experience or skills you have.

Tailor it to the Company

When you're applying for a job, it's important to do your research on the company beforehand. This way, you can customize your cover letter to show that you're a good fit for the company. One of the most important things to research is the company culture. What are the company's values? What is the work environment like? By tailoring your cover letter to match the company culture, you'll improve your chances of getting hired.

What is Company Culture?

Company culture is the set of values and norms that dictate how employees behave within an organization. It includes everything from the way employees dress and interact with each other to the way they handle customer service inquiries. Company culture varies from organization to organization, so it's important to do your research before applying for a job. That way, you can tailor your cover letter (and resume) to match the company culture.

Why is Company Culture Important?

When you're applying for a job, it's important to show that you're a good fit for the company. One of the best ways to do this is by matching your own values to the company's values. For example, if one of the company's values is "innovation," you could talk about a time when you came up with a new idea that improved productivity in your previous job. Or, if the company values customer service, you could mention a time when you went above and beyond to help a customer. By aligning yourself with the company's values, you'll improve your chances of getting hired.

How to Research Company Culture

There are a few different ways to research company culture. The first is to visit the company website and read through their "About Us" or “News and Insights” page. This will give you an overview of what the company values and how they operate on a day-to-day basis. Another way to research company culture is to read online reviews from current and former employees. Finally, you can reach out to someone who already works at the company and ask them about their experience. By doing your research, you'll be able to write a cover letter that will make you stand out from the crowd.

Use Strong Verbs

Your cover letter is your opportunity to make a good first impression on potential employers. In order to stand out, it's important to use language that is both powerful and precise. That's why using strong, active verbs is such an effective technique. Verbs like "achieved," "created," and "improved" immediately grab the reader's attention and give them a sense of what you're capable of. 

Additionally, active verbs help to paint a picture of your accomplishments, making them more concrete and convincing. Finally, strong verbs add energy and enthusiasm to your writing, conveying your excitement about the job and making the reader more likely to want to meet with you. So next time you sit down to write a cover letter, remember that choosing the right verb can make all the difference.

Be Specific

Vague statements won't impress anyone, so make sure you're specific about what you did and how it benefited the company. For example, "I increased sales by X% by implementing a new marketing strategy" sounds much better than "I increased sales."

Proofread Carefully

Typos and grammar mistakes are a major turn-off for recruiters, so proofread your cover letter carefully before sending it off. If possible, have someone else read it as well to catch any mistakes you might have missed.

Follow up afterwards

Once you've submitted your application, follow up with the recruiter via email or phone call to thank them for their time and reiterate your interest in the position. By following up, you 'll show that you 're truly passionate about the opportunity and increase your chances of getting an interview.

Final Thoughts

By following these tips, you can be sure that your cover letter will make a great impression on recruiters. Just remember to keep it short and sweet, focus on your accomplishments, tailor it to the company, use strong verbs, and proofread carefully! Don’t forget, if you are struggling creating your cover letter or resume yourself, consider contacting a staffing agency for help. Good Luck!