The cover letter is an essential part of your job application. It allows you to present your profile, your skills and your interest in the company. In this article, we'll give you some tips on how to structure your cover letter effectively and professionally.
How should a cover letter be structured?
A well-structured cover letter generally follows an outline that includes the following parts:
Heading
The header of your cover letter should contain your full contact details (name, address, telephone number, e-mail address) at the top left of the letter, and the company details (name, address) at the top right.
Subject
The subject of your cover letter is a short paragraph in which you indicate the position for which you are applying. For example, "Application for the position of Management Controller".
Salutation
The salutation is a polite way of addressing the recruiter. Use "Madame" or "Monsieur" followed by the recipient's surname.
Introduction
The introductory part of your cover letter is crucial, as it should capture the recruiter's attention from the very first lines. Start by expressing your interest in the position and the company, showing that you have done thorough research. You can mention the company's values that appeal to you and explain why you want to work for it.
Part 1 - You
In this first part, highlight the skills, experience or training you possess that meet the company's specific needs. Make a list of the key skills required for the position of management controller and highlight those you possess. For example, you could highlight your expertise in financial analysis, your mastery of management tools and your ability to make informed decisions.
Part 2 - Me
In this section, highlight your career path, achievements and relevant experience. Talk about your previous experience in management control, the projects you've completed, the results you've achieved and the specific skills you've acquired. Show that you are a competent and qualified candidate for the position.
Part 3 - About us
In this section, establish the link between you and the company by showing how your profile can contribute to their success. Highlight your interest in working with the team and your ability to adapt to the company's values and culture. Explain how you can contribute your controlling expertise to help the company achieve its financial objectives.
Conclusion
The conclusion of your cover letter should be dynamic, expressing your enthusiasm about joining the company. Express your availability for an interview and your gratitude for the attention given to your application. Also mention that you have attached your CV for more information about your background.
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What's the ideal layout for a cover letter?
For a professional cover letter, a clear and neat layout is essential. Here are a few additional tips for an ideal layout:
Use a legible font, such as Arial or Times New Roman, with a font size of 11 or 12 points.
Align text to the left and use short paragraphs for better legibility.
Use margins of around 2.5 cm on each side of the page for a balanced look.
Avoid too many fancy colors or fonts, keep it simple and professional.
Convert your cover letter to PDF format to avoid compatibility problems when sending.
By following this structure and layout, you'll be able to write a clear, persuasive and professional cover letter to maximize your chances of getting the job you want.
Take a look at our online guide to cover letter templates and examples for different fields and types of employment.
We hope these tips will help you write an effective and convincing cover letter. Good writing and good luck in your job search!
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