5 Secrets To Writing A Great Cover Letter With A Sample

5 Secrets To Writing A Great Cover Letter With A Sample

By Kibet Tobias
When applying for every job in Kenya or abroad, a cover letter should be sent with your curriculum vitae. A cover letter is a one-page document that explains to the hiring manager why you are an ideal candidate for the job.
You may feel as though the document is unnecessary since you already provide a resume with plenty of information. Many employers require cover letters as part of the job application process.
Remember cover letter presents your case for why you should be hired. It gives you a chance to show your passion for the position or company, and highlight relevant qualifications.

Tips for Writing a  Cover Letter For  Recent College Graduate

1. Use keywords
Take a careful look at the job description, noting any skills or experiences that the description notes. Try to include some of those keywords in your cover letter.
This will show the employer a connection between your experiences and the job.
2. Focus on activities and responsibilities
In the body of your cover letter, you want to emphasize the skills and experiences that make you a good candidate. Avoid focusing on your classwork or grades, or other activity related to college.
Instead, focus on activities you did, and responsibilities you held. Maybe you had an internship, or were a leader in a school organization. These examples go beyond showing that you were a good student. They show you have what it takes to be a good employee.

ALSO READ >>> Cover Letter Mistakes You Are Probably Making

3. Sell yourself
Avoid talking about how much you want the job; instead, focus on how you will help out the company.
Emphasize ways that you can add value at the company, and why you are a good fit for them.
4. Show your knowledge of the company
Research the company before writing the cover letter. If possible, explain what you know about the company (or the department the job is in).
Perhaps you’ve read an article about the company’s recent successes, or you’ve read and believe in the company’s mission statement. Knowledge of the company will put you a step above the competition.
5. Proofread
Make sure you thoroughly read through your letter, editing any typos or grammar errors. Always keep your letter short and to the point, using language that is easy to understand.
Ask a friend or career coach to read it for you as well.

Recent College Graduate Cover Letter Example

`Your Contact Information
Address
City, State, Zip Code
Phone Number
Email

Employer Contact Information
Name
Title
Company
Address
City, State, Zip Code

Date
Dear Mr./Ms. LastName,
I am writing to apply for the position of Media Relations Assistant Manager, which I saw advertised on Career Point Kenya. ABCD is a fast-moving global institution and an outstanding communications pioneer, now poised to guide the direction of print journalism. I believe that my extensive experience in media makes me an ideal candidate for this position at your company.
As a recent graduate of the Kabianga University, I have a significant background in media. As a media major, I held multiple internships, including Media Relations Coordinator Intern at XYZ Company. I also served as president of the Media and Marketing Club at school. We successfully developed and pitched an advertisement campaign for a local nonprofit, which helped increase donations to the nonprofit by 22 percent.
You state in your job listing that you are looking for someone with strong writing skills and an attention to detail. Throughout all four years of college, I worked part-time as a copy editor for an online journal. This job required great attention to detail in writing and editing. I would love to bring my editing skills to a position with your company.
These strengths, combined with deep and varied academic, internship, and employment experience, prepare me to make a strong and immediate impact at ABCD.
I am excited about the opportunity to join the ABCD team as it moves to the center of the print media conversation. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Your Signature (hard copy letter)
Your Typed Name.’
 In short use these tips and more cover letter samples related to your field to get ideas for your own cover letter, so you can show employers why you should be selected for an interview. A rewarding job opportunity awaits you!
All the best!
The writer is a content writer at Career Point Kenya. For any related queries contact tobias@www.careerpointkenya.co.ke Or comment on the section below.