8 Cover Letter Tips (With Examples!) That Will Help You Stand Out

Arkansas Hiring and Employment trends in 2021

Many job applicants know that cover letters give them a chance to make a good first impression on employers. These tips will make yours stand out from the competition.

A cover letter is a great opportunity to explain why you are the perfect candidate for your dream job. Employers in Central Arkansas are busy people with hectic schedules, so it is important to catch their attention with professional writing that stands out from the piles of applications on their desks. The following cover letter writing tips and examples represent the best advice from a Little Rock staffing agency that has helped countless job seekers take the next step in their careers.

1. Keep the Tone Light.

An experienced staffing specialist will tell you that a cover letter cannot jump off the page if it is written in an overly formal tone that comes across as stiff. Lighten the tone of your letter while remaining professional by using short sentences, commonly spoken words, and positive phrases.

Example: “I’m excited about this opportunity to join your medical clinic.”

2. Show Off Your Research Skills.

Let an employer know that you have done your research on their company. Provide a detailed explanation of why you want the position instead of simply stating that you are interested in their business. If you need help finding information about Central Arkansas companies, consider working with a Little Rock staffing agency that is familiar with employers in the area.

Example: “I’ve read about the new dermatology services your clinic is offering, and I believe your team is meeting a genuine need for the community.”

3. Highlight Your Achievements.

Modesty can make you come across as uncertain or unconfident to employers. Do not hesitate to write about successful projects you have completed or other accomplishments. It is likely that you have mentioned these achievements on your resume, but highlighting them again in your cover letter will ensure they receive the attention they deserve.

Example: “At my last job, I created a patient survey that led to a 15% increase in the medical practice’s patient retention the following quarter.”

4. Avoid Being Too Casual.

While having a lighter tone is helpful, do not be too conversational in your introduction. This could come across as unprofessional and lead employers to skip the rest of your letter. Work with a staffing specialist to decide which key details, such as work history and skills, you should mention early in your cover letter.

Example: “As someone with prior experience at surgical practices, I’ve spent a lot of time developing my interpersonal skills and ability to work as part of a team.”

5. Use Clear and Precise Language.

One of the most common mistakes job applicants make with cover letters is using vague language when describing their skills and abilities. For example, do not simply tell employers that you are a problem solver. Give concrete examples of how you have resolved conflicts.

Example: “My ability to connect with patients is one of my greatest strengths, something that is supported by my many glowing reviews.”

6. Keep It Short and Sweet.

Cover letters do not need to be lengthy. In fact, conveying your qualification in a few paragraphs can be a great way to get an employer’s attention. Just be sure you come across as polite rather than abrupt or unprofessional.

Example: “I would be more than happy to discuss my qualifications for this job in greater detail.”

7. Tailor the Letter to Your Industry.

Be sure your cover letter reflects the employer’s industry. Use a more traditional tone and style for health care, finance, or law, but feel free to display more creativity for jobs in advertising, publishing, or design.

Example: “I admire how your team strives to provide the highest quality care for your patients, and I hope to contribute to this goal in the near future.”

8. Include a Headline.

A headline might not seem like a common feature of a cover letter, but it can be an effective way to make an employer interested in what you have to offer. Place an attention-grabbing headline before your opening paragraph to create interest in your experience and abilities.

Example: “5 Years Of Clinical And Hospital Nursing Experience”

If you’re looking for a new job, check out our Job Openings page + to see what’s available. Apex Staffing specializes in connecting talented job seekers with high-quality, local employers. Our service is completely free for job seekers and we are always accepting applications.