How Long Should a Cover Letter Be & What Format to Use

A cover letter is a crucial document in the process of application for a given job position. It is the first impression that you give the employers on why they should hire you. But to what extent should it be, and what format should be adopted? The following information will give you a clear picture of the right length and format of cover letter.

How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?

It should not exceed one page. However, if it is too long, the employer may not go through it and that would be the end of it. A one-page cover letter is ideal as it is not too lengthy and the employer will not lose interest in the middle of reading.

Consequently, a good cover letter should consist of three or four paragraphs. The first paragraph is your opening statement where you get an opportunity to state your details and the position that you are applying for. The second paragraph of the sample job application letter is also commonly referred to as the ‘selling’ paragraph because it is where the applicant tries to sell himself by stating why he or she is best suited for the position. The third paragraph is an expression of the enthusiasm for the job. If you want more, you can add a final paragraph that will be an expression of your appreciation towards the employer and request for further interview.

Why Keep It Short?

Employers receive many applications. cover letter writing service in dubai do not have time to read through long cover letters and therefore it is advisable to keep them short. If you make your cover letter very lengthy, there are chances that the employers or the HR managers might not go through the whole letter. If it is very short, they may consider that you don’t value the job or the job is not important to you. So, the right length is key.

What Format to Use?

It also concerns the format of the letter itself, as well as its content and style. A structured cover letter is professional and also easy to read as compared to a poorly structured one. Here is the correct format.

1. This article provides an overview of how to improve healthcare by improving medicine and healthcare technology.

The beginning paragraph should tell readers about you. Explain which position you are applying for and tell them about the source for the job ad. Be enthusiastic about the work when you are interviewed. For example:

This letter is written to show my interest in the Marketing Coordinator position at your organization which I saw advertised on your website. I hope I can help on your team by offering my marketing knowledge for the benefit of the company.

2. Second Paragraph: Discussing Your Skills and Qualifications

The third paragraph should explain what experience and skills you have, if applying for a job. The area where the position is best suited should receive the most attention among the requirements. You should let the employer know how your qualifications fit the job and how you would bring value to the team. For example:

I have managed digital marketing for more than three years and now know how to use social media, produce content and analyze marketing efforts. My contribution to the employer was to boost involvement with social media by about 40%.

3. This is why you want the Job

Make sure you explain in the third paragraph why you are drawn to the job and the company. You can do this easily, mainly if you have learned some details about the company. State one thing about the company that you think is appealing. For example:

Learning that XYZ Company works with innovation and is sustainable is something that inspires me. I also like your plan to use digital marketing so that businesses grow responsibly and care for the environment. I would like to be involved in helping you accomplish what you want.”

Final Thoughts

Your cover letter should not be more than one page and the paragraphs should be well articulated. Ensure that you follow all the recommended format and avoid the use of bullet points while elaborating why you are the best person for the job. It is therefore advisable to come up with a good cover letter because it will increase your chances of being called for interview.

Bear in mind that the cover letter is your first impression that you make and it is important that it should be positive. Make it simple and concise, which is the best practice for any kind of writing in any context. Employers will spend few seconds scanning through your resume and they will determine if you are the best candidate to do the job or not depending on what you present to them.