How can you use your cover letter to show your problem solving skills and add value to the company?

1 Use the STAR method

One of the most effective ways to show your problem solving skills in your cover letter is to use the STAR method, which stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. This method helps you to structure your stories and provide specific examples of how you solved a problem in a previous or current role. For each problem, you should briefly describe the situation and the task you had to accomplish, then explain the action you took and the result you achieved. Make sure to quantify your results whenever possible and relate them to the company's goals or values.

2 Tailor your examples to the job

Another important tip for using your cover letter to show your problem solving skills is to tailor your examples to the job you are applying for. You should research the company and the role and identify the main problems or challenges they are facing or the goals they are pursuing. Then, you should select the most relevant examples from your own experience that demonstrate how you solved similar or related problems or contributed to similar or related goals. This way, you can show the hiring manager that you understand their needs and that you have the skills and knowledge to meet them.

3 Highlight your soft skills and creativity

Problem solving skills are not only about technical or analytical abilities, but also about soft skills and creativity. Soft skills are the interpersonal and communication skills that help you to work well with others, adapt to changing situations, and cope with stress. Creativity is the skill that helps you to come up with new and innovative solutions, think outside the box, and challenge the status quo. In your cover letter, you should highlight how you used your soft skills and creativity to solve problems, such as collaborating with others, seeking feedback, learning new things, or experimenting with different approaches.

4 Show your enthusiasm and passion

Finally, you should use your cover letter to show your enthusiasm and passion for solving problems and adding value to the company. Problem solving skills are not only about what you can do, but also about why you do it and how you feel about it. In your cover letter, you should express your interest and excitement for the role and the company, and how solving problems motivates you and aligns with your values and vision. You should also show your curiosity and eagerness to learn more and improve your skills, and how you would welcome new challenges and opportunities.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?