Looking to make a career change, sis? Or, maybe you have your eye on a higher position at a different company. Regardless of the reason you're choosing to apply for this new job, it's important to be very clear about why you are making this career move. This is essential because you need to have clarity and be confident in your career direction in order to convince employers why you are best suited for the new role or industry.
A well-crafted cover letter can set the tone and highlight your professional strengths by showcasing your personal story. Here's how to construct an effective cover letter:
1. Know Your "Why"
Career moves can be overwhelming — and sometimes, a little scary — but it doesn’t have to be. You can take control by doing research about the role and making educated decisions.
Ask yourself these questions, sis:
- – How do I want this job to impact my life?
- – How committed am I to this career move?
- – What do I need to feel satisfied at work?
- – How can I start to explore my options?
- – What do I dislike about my current role or work environment?
2. Introduction: Why Are You Writing This Cover Letter?
Be sure to make this section brief, sis. According to the Harvard Business Review, it's important not to ramble on.
Talk about the role that you are applying for and include other relevant information such as where you discovered the posting, the company name, and who referred you to the role (if referred).
3. Convince the Employer: Why Are You the Best Candidate for the Role?
Persuade the employer that you are the best person for the role. And let your confidence shine through your words! Use this section to show that you have read the job posting, you understand how your skills can contribute to the company, and you address the challenges of the company.
Be Honest
Tell your personal story and make it easy for hiring managers to understand why you deserve this position. This will show how thoughtful and educated your decision-making process is, and why your unique strengths make you more qualified than other candidates.
Instead of just repeating what’s on your resume, let your personality shine. What makes you unique? What are your strengths and personal characteristics that make you suited for the job?
Be Self-Aware
As the University of Victoria explains, tap into your self-awareness to capture your "transferrable" skills. Be specific and show how your existing skills are relevant to the new role. Review the job posting and use industry-specific language so that the hiring manager can easily connect your skills with the skills the company needs.
4. Final Call-To-Action: Why Do You Want to Work for This Company?
This is your last chance to show what you have to offer, sis! Why does this opportunity and company excite you? Speak to all the values you’ll bring to the company, the University of Northwestern reports.
Remember to include a call-to-action since the whole point of the cover letter is to get you an interview.
SUMMING IT UP
Remember, cover letters help you to effectively showcase your personal brand.
– Keep your writing clear and concise. You have one page to express yourself, so make every word count.
– Do your research to determine who will be reading your letter. By understanding your audience, you'll better persuade them that you are the best person for the role.
- – Create your letter for each job by including the hiring manager’s name, and the company name and address. Check out some sample cover letter templates to help you get started, courtesy of Zety.
- – Get someone else to review your cover letter, and proofread it for grammar and spelling errors.
GIF: Giphy
You got this, sis! We're sending you positive vibes and all the luck on your next career move to securing the bag.
Ready. Set. Boss. Our daily email is pouring out inspiration with the latest #BlackGirlBossUp moments, tips on hair, beauty and lifestyle to get you on track to a better you! Sign up today.