Business Cover Letter Example

Written by Mark DeGrasso

May 4, 2023

When applying for any job, it’s essential to submit a well-crafted cover letter that stands out from the rest. A business cover letter is particularly important as it portrays your interest in the company and your fit for the role you’re applying for. This article highlights essential components, common mistakes to avoid, and provides an example of what an excellent business cover letter looks like.

What Employers Look For In A Business Cover Letter

Employers use cover letters to screen potential candidates. They want to see if you have the qualifications that match the job positing and if you have the right attitude for the company’s culture. Employers also seek simple, concise, and attention-grabbing business cover letters.

When it comes to qualifications, employers want to see that you have the necessary skills and experience to perform the job duties. This means that you should highlight your relevant work experience, education, and any certifications or licenses that you hold. It’s also important to show how your skills and experience align with the specific job requirements listed in the job posting.

However, qualifications aren’t the only thing that employers look for in a business cover letter. They also want to see that you have the right attitude and personality for the company’s culture. This means that you should research the company and try to understand their values, mission, and goals. Then, you can tailor your cover letter to show how your own values and goals align with those of the company.

Another key factor that employers look for in a business cover letter is simplicity and conciseness. Your cover letter should be easy to read and understand, with short paragraphs and bullet points to break up the text. Avoid using overly complex language or industry jargon that may confuse the reader.

Finally, your business cover letter should be attention-grabbing. This means that you should avoid using generic or cliché opening lines, and instead try to start with a hook that will make the employer want to keep reading. You can do this by highlighting a specific achievement or experience that demonstrates your qualifications and personality.

In summary, a successful business cover letter should showcase your qualifications, align with the company’s culture, be simple and concise, and be attention-grabbing. By following these guidelines, you can increase your chances of landing an interview and ultimately, the job.

Essential Components of a Business Cover Letter

A business cover letter is an essential tool that can help you secure your dream job. A well-crafted cover letter showcases your skills and experience and highlights why you’re the best candidate for the position. Here are some crucial components that should be present in your business cover letter:

  • Contact Information: Your cover letter should include your contact information and the employer’s contact information. This information should be presented clearly and should be easy to find.
  • Greeting: A professional greeting is essential when addressing the hiring manager. Use the hiring manager’s name if possible, and make sure to spell it correctly.
  • Introduction: Your introduction should be short and to the point. It should indicate the position you’re applying for and should grab the employer’s attention.
  • Body Paragraphs: The body of your cover letter should be divided into several paragraphs. Each paragraph should cover your qualifications and accomplishments. Make sure to highlight your relevant skills and experience, and provide specific examples to back up your claims.
  • Closing: A polite closing paragraph is essential. Thank the employer for their consideration and express your interest in the position. You can also include a call to action, such as asking for an interview.
  • Signature: Your cover letter should include a professional signature with your name and contact information. Make sure that your signature is easy to read and that your contact information is up-to-date.

Remember, your business cover letter is your chance to make a great first impression on potential employers. Take the time to craft a well-written and professional cover letter that highlights your skills and experience. Good luck!

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Writing a Business Cover Letter

Writing a business cover letter can be a daunting task, especially when you’re trying to make a good impression. However, there are mistakes you need to avoid to make it effective. Here are some additional details to help you avoid these mistakes:

  • Grammatical Errors: Your cover letter is a reflection of your writing skills. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that it’s free from grammatical and spelling errors. Take the time to proofread your letter or have someone else do it for you.
  • Copying Templates: While using templates can be helpful, it’s important to customize the letter to fit the job position you’re applying for. Employers can easily spot generic cover letters, and it might hurt your chances of getting the job.
  • Being Too Formal or Too Casual: Striking a balance between being too formal or too casual can be tricky. Using a formal tone is important, but avoid being too formal or stiff. Also, avoid using emojis or colloquialisms in your cover letter.
  • Irrelevant Information: It’s important to stick to relevant skills and experiences that directly relate to the job position you’re applying for. Including irrelevant information can make your cover letter appear unfocused and unprofessional.
  • Lengthy Letters: Employers won’t go through lengthy business cover letters. Try to stick to a single page and make every word count. Be concise and to the point.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can increase your chances of getting noticed by potential employers. Remember, your cover letter is your first impression, so make it count!

Final Steps On Writing Your Business Cover Letter

When crafting your business cover letter, it is important to keep in mind that this is your chance to make a great first impression on potential employers. Therefore, it is crucial to research the company to which you are applying and tailor your letter to the company’s culture. This will help you to stand out from the pool of applicants and increase your chances of getting hired.

Here are some final steps that can help you make your cover letter stand out:

  1. Show Your Passion: Employers want to see your passion and drive for the job position applied for. Make sure to highlight your enthusiasm in your cover letter. You can do this by explaining why you are interested in the company and how you can contribute to its success.
  2. Provide Examples: Use relevant examples of how your skills can benefit the company. This will help the employer to understand how you can add value to the organization. For instance, if you are applying for a marketing position, you can provide examples of successful marketing campaigns you have executed in the past.
  3. Quantify Your Achievements: Use numbers to quantify your achievements to show the employer what tangible benefits you can bring to the company. For example, if you have increased sales by a certain percentage in your previous job, make sure to mention it in your cover letter. This will help the employer to understand the impact of your work.
  4. Edit and Review: After writing your letter, take time to edit and review it for any errors or other mistakes. This will help you to ensure that your cover letter is well-written and error-free. You can also ask a friend or family member to review your letter and provide feedback.

Remember, your cover letter is your chance to showcase your skills and experience to potential employers. By following these final steps, you can create a compelling cover letter that will help you to stand out from the crowd and land your dream job.

Example Business Cover Letter

Below is an example of a business cover letter:

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the Assistant Manager position available at XYZ Corporation. With over five years of experience in the management field, I am confident that my skills and experience make me an ideal candidate for this role. I am excited to contribute to the continued success of your company.

In my current position at ABC Inc., I have gained a range of relevant skills that are applicable to the Assistant Manager position at XYZ Corporation. My experience in team coordination, process improvement, and customer service has allowed me to develop a strong foundation in leadership and management. Additionally, I have led several successful projects that resulted in a 22% increase in profit margins.

One of my most significant achievements was leading a team of 10 employees in a project that involved streamlining the company’s supply chain process. Through my leadership, we were able to identify inefficiencies and implement changes that resulted in a 30% reduction in supply chain costs. This project not only demonstrated my ability to lead a team but also my attention to detail and dedication to process improvement.

I am confident that my experience, attention to detail, and dedication to teamwork make me an exceptional fit for the Assistant Manager position at XYZ Corporation. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the continued growth and success of your company.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing my qualifications and learning more about this exciting opportunity.

Sincerely,

John Doe

Business Cover Letter FAQ

Are you struggling to write a business cover letter that will get you noticed by potential employers? Here are some frequently asked questions and answers to help guide you:

  • How long should a business cover letter be? – A business cover letter should be one page or less. It’s important to be concise and to the point, while still highlighting your skills and qualifications.
  • What should I include in a business cover letter? – Your business cover letter should include your contact information, a professional greeting, an introduction that expresses your interest in the job and the company, body paragraphs that highlight your skills and experience, a closing that thanks the employer for their time and consideration, and a signature.
  • Can I use a template for my business cover letter? – Yes, using a template can be helpful, but make sure to customize it to fit the job position you are applying for. Avoid using generic templates that don’t showcase your unique qualifications.

Remember, your business cover letter is your chance to make a great first impression on potential employers. It’s important to showcase your skills, experience, and passion for the job position and the company culture. Be sure to avoid common mistakes, proofread your letter carefully, and maintain a professional tone throughout. By following these tips, you can create a business cover letter that stands out from other applicants and increases your chances of getting hired.

Additionally, it’s important to research the company you are applying to and tailor your cover letter to their specific needs and values. You can also include specific examples of how your skills and experience align with the job requirements. Don’t be afraid to show your personality and enthusiasm for the job, but make sure to maintain a professional tone.

In conclusion, crafting an excellent business cover letter takes time and effort, but it can pay off in the long run by helping you secure your dream job. By following these tips and guidelines, you can create a compelling business cover letter that showcases your unique qualifications and sets you apart from other applicants.