How to Write Cover Letter Changing Careers?
Some candidates have doubts about the need for a cover letter that can be added to the resume. What is the point if the information is already recorded in an expert resume?
A cover letter can be an additional argument in favor of you as a candidate. What exactly is it worth writing, and under what circumstances require this letter?
3 arguments for a professional cover letter for a resume
The cover letter is not a copy of the resume, but an opportunity to supplement it. There are three main reasons to invest time in preparing a quality cover letter.
- First, for the employer, it is a sign of your interest in the job, not just a mechanical response.
- Second, it is an opportunity to focus on your main strengths as a candidate.
- Third, it is a chance to explain the gaps in your experience.
Professional resume cover letter format
Greetings. If you know the name of the person who will be reviewing the resume, you may point it in the welcome part. If not, use precise phrases.
Tell about your motivation: why you are interested in this appointment and the company in general. For example, what do you like about a project? Do you have a close vision of a strategy for a particular direction? Employers especially value candidates who are motivated to work with them, rather than merely looking for a temporary way to make money.
There is no point in preparing a single template and sending it to all employers. Adapt the text for a resume to a specific application and mark the points that are relevant to it.
Justify your value in the case mismatch. Use your chance to reassure your employer that you should be invited for an interview, even if you do not fully meet the job requirements.
For example, if you do not have the necessary experience, indicate that you are ready to compensate for this: you are consciously planning to build a career in this field, have already started profile courses, and are prepared to learn a lot.
Particularly valuable is a cover letter for those who have no experience at all (students, graduates) or a cover letter when changing careers. It is an opportunity to focus on your motivation and personal qualities. Also important is your willingness to develop in the absence of experience and skills.
Describe your main strengths as a candidate. It can be a great experience in the implementation of similar projects, education, language skills, professional programs, and experience abroad.
Pay attention to what a particular job requires and highlight the relevant aspects of your resume. For example, if your company is working with foreign partners and you have lived in that country, specify that.
The letter should be concise but do not forget about the specifics and essential details that emphasize your experience and demonstrate personal qualities. Mark the superior results and achievements relevant to the position.
What adds value to the cover letter?
Dozens of candidates will respond to the exciting vacancy, and the recruiter will spend a few minutes screening the resume and cover letters. Therefore, you should put as much of vital information as possible into the text. The optimum summary is 1-2 pages; the letter should be even more concise — a few paragraphs. The text should be structured, and corrected (if necessary, use a professional cover letter writing service).
When designing a cover letter, use the same style as the resume. When writing the text, make sure you only use the information that is relevant to the job. It is not necessary to list all your positions, which do not relate to a future position. Remove unnecessary words and constructs so that you do not interfere with perception.
Use keywords that are in the job text, similar style, and wording: this will emphasize that you and the employer are on the same wave and have every chance of finding a common language.
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