4 Details Hiring Managers Really Look For in Your Cover Letter

Via The LevoLeague January 3, 2013

As we all know, writing a great cover letter that will get a hiring manager’s attention is no small feat. The best cover letters are customized for each and every unique job and company. This can be time-consuming but is a super-successful technique for getting your cover letter read and into the interview pile.

But aside from customization, what details are hiring managers looking for when reading job applicants’ cover letters? I can say from experience they are much simpler than you might think.

1. Job and company-specific content that shows you did your research. Think of writing your cover letter as a sales pitch. You’re essentially selling yourself, your skills, and your knowledge to the company. Therefore, hiring managers are looking for details that show you’re familiar with the company and that you would make a good fit.

You don’t have to go all out with these details. But by customizing your cover letter for each job description and making note of any industry-related news, new products, or recent announcements, it shows you’re paying attention.

2. Actions and results from your work experience that relate to that position, not your personal life. Hiring managers truly want to know the details of your past work experience that pertain to the job at hand. This means you don’t need to highlight all of your great skills and experiences. Again, this is where your strategic thinking should come into play.

If you’re not sure where to begin, consider examples of times when your top skills came in handy and consider how that sets you apart for this particular job. Don’t forget, hiring managers don’t want to hear about your personal life, goals, or needs — only about how you can contribute to the company. Read full article>>