How do you show your personality in your cover letter?

1 Be authentic

The first rule of writing a cover letter is to be yourself. Don't try to sound like someone else or use clichés and buzzwords that don't reflect your true voice. Instead, use a friendly and confident tone that expresses your enthusiasm and passion for the role and the company. Show some of your personal traits and interests that relate to the position or the industry, and explain how they make you a valuable asset. For example, if you are applying for a creative role, you could mention your hobbies, inspirations, or favorite projects that demonstrate your skills and style.

2 Be specific

The second rule of writing a cover letter is to be specific. Don't write a generic letter that could apply to any job or company. Instead, tailor your letter to the specific requirements and expectations of the role and the employer. Research the company's mission, vision, values, and culture, and show how you align with them. Use examples and anecdotes from your previous experiences that illustrate your achievements and contributions to similar goals or challenges. Highlight your relevant skills and qualifications, and explain how they match the job description and the employer's needs.

3 Be concise

The third rule of writing a cover letter is to be concise. Don't write a long and rambling letter that loses the reader's attention and interest. Instead, write a clear and concise letter that covers the main points and delivers your message effectively. Use short and simple sentences and paragraphs, and avoid unnecessary details and repetitions. Use bullet points or subheadings to organize your information and make it easy to scan. Keep your letter to one page or less, and proofread it for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.

4 Be positive

The fourth rule of writing a cover letter is to be positive. Don't write a negative or apologetic letter that undermines your confidence and credibility. Instead, write a positive and optimistic letter that shows your enthusiasm and motivation for the job and the company. Focus on your strengths and achievements, and how they can benefit the employer and the team. Express your gratitude and appreciation for the opportunity, and show your interest and curiosity for learning more about the role and the company. End your letter with a call to action, and invite the reader to contact you for an interview or a follow-up conversation.

5 Be original

The fifth rule of writing a cover letter is to be original. Don't write a boring or generic letter that blends in with the rest of the applicants. Instead, write a memorable and distinctive letter that stands out from the crowd. Use a catchy and relevant opening line that grabs the reader's attention and curiosity. Use a creative and appropriate format and design that reflects your personality and the industry. Use humor, storytelling, or a personal connection to make your letter more engaging and relatable. Show some of your personality, but don't go overboard or be inappropriate. Keep it professional and respectful, and make sure your letter matches your resume and your online presence.

6 Be yourself

The sixth and final rule of writing a cover letter is to be yourself. Don't forget that your cover letter is a reflection of who you are and what you can offer to the employer and the job. Be honest, genuine, and confident, and let your personality shine through your words. Remember that your cover letter is not only a document, but also a conversation starter. Make it personal, relevant, and compelling, and you will have a better chance of getting noticed and invited for an interview.

7 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?