When submitting a cover letter, you have the opportunity to introduce yourself to a company before having any direct contact with a hiring manager or interviewer. With over 20 years of experience in the careers industry and credentials including the elite Master Resume Writer certification, I have seen firsthand how a well-crafted cover letter can make a significant difference. Whether you’re seeking a new job or applying for various positions, crafting a concise cover letter tailored to the specific company can help you stand out. Contrary to the belief that longer cover letters are more advantageous, my extensive experience has shown that a short, well-crafted cover letter can more effectively and efficiently convey your qualifications to a potential employer. In this article, we will explore the benefits of writing a brief cover letter and provide examples to illustrate this approach. Check out our “Ultimate cover letter guide“.
Why use a short cover letter?
Using a short cover letter can be highly advantageous for your job application. Here are some key reasons:
- Efficient: Recruiters often have limited time to review applications. A short cover letter is more likely to be read fully, allowing recruiters to quickly grasp your qualifications and fit for the role.
- Distinguishing: In a sea of lengthy cover letters, a concise one can stand out. Employers inundated with applications may prioritize shorter, well-crafted cover letters. This demonstrates your ability to effectively highlight key qualifications and leaves room for more detailed discussion during an interview.
- Professional: A brief cover letter respects the hiring manager’s time and demonstrates your professionalism. It shows that you can communicate your message efficiently and effectively, which is a valuable skill in any professional setting.
In my two decades of experience in the careers industry, I’ve found that a brief, well-crafted cover letter often makes a more significant impact than a lengthy one. Recruiters typically have limited time and appreciate when candidates can convey their qualifications succinctly. A concise cover letter is more likely to be read in full, allowing you to clearly present your key strengths and how they align with the role. This efficiency can make you stand out amidst a sea of longer, less focused submissions.
Furthermore, a short cover letter demonstrates professionalism by respecting the hiring manager’s time. It shows your ability to communicate your message effectively and efficiently, which is a valuable skill in any professional setting. By highlighting your core qualifications in a direct manner, you leave a memorable impression and create an opportunity for more detailed discussions during the interview stage.
Examples for short cover letter
If you’re applying for an open position at a company that interests you, your cover letter may look something like the following example. This letter might make a good impression on employers because it addresses the hiring manager personally, mentions the company in the first sentence, and fits on half of a page. It also mentions the position the candidate is applying for and relevant skills:
Short cover letter example for a general application
Dear Ms. Green,
I am excited about the opportunity to join Wall Media as a Sales Associate, inspired by your company’s dedication to customer satisfaction.
With eight years of experience in sales and a passion for helping others achieve their goals, I am confident that my skills align well with Bell Media’s collaborative team environment. My resume highlights my achievements in driving sales growth and fostering strong client relationships.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how I can contribute to Bell Media’s continued success.
Best regards,
Dean White
Short cover letter for a prospective company with no listed openings
Here’s an example of a cover letter aimed at a company that hasn’t posted any job openings. This type of letter can be effective because it introduces the candidate as a potential fit for various positions within the company. It’s broad enough to indicate flexibility but specific enough to highlight the candidate’s passions and experience. The letter addresses the hiring manager and company directly, emphasizing how the candidate’s skills and experiences can benefit the organization as a whole:
Dear Ms. Green,
I am writing to express my interest in potential opportunities at FutureTech Solutions. I have long admired your company’s innovative approach to technology and commitment to excellence.
With a decade of experience in software development and a passion for creating user-friendly applications, I am confident that my skills could contribute significantly to your team. My background includes leading projects that enhanced productivity and user engagement, aligning well with FutureTech Solutions’ goals.
Thank you for considering my application. I would be thrilled to discuss how my experiences and enthusiasm for technology could benefit FutureTech Solutions.
Best regards,
Alex Taylor
Short cover letter for an open job as a new graduate
Here’s an example of a cover letter that a new graduate sends to a prospective employer. This example works because it includes details about the candidate’s recent education and relates their work history from college to the position they’re seeking. As with the previous two examples, this short cover letter mentions the hiring manager’s name, takes up less than a full page, and emphasizes their values:
Dear Mr. Smith,
I am excited to apply for the Marketing Coordinator position at Creative Solutions, a company I have admired for its innovative approach and commitment to excellence.
I recently graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from State University, where I gained hands-on experience through internships and campus projects. My role as a marketing intern at Bright Ideas Inc. allowed me to develop skills in social media management, content creation, and campaign analysis, all of which align with the responsibilities outlined in your job posting.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and enthusiasm can contribute to the success of Creative Solutions.
Best regards,
Jamie Lee
Tips for Writing a Short Cover Letter
Consider the following guidelines when preparing a concise cover letter to send to a hiring manager:
Use Bullet Points to Highlight Your Qualifications
Since the reader may skim your cover letter, using bullet points can effectively showcase your best qualifications for the role. For instance, you can list the technical skills and relevant work experience that align with the job description provided by the employer.
Customize Your Cover Letter for Every Job
Each company you apply to may have unique expectations and values. Ensure you tailor your cover letter to reflect the specific employer, demonstrating why you are the best candidate for the role you desire. This personalization shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you stand out from other applicants.
Be clear and concise
When writing your cover letter, be clear and concise. Address why you’re interested in the job and how your credentials align with the company’s goals in a single paragraph. Specific details can help you stand out and maintain the hiring manager’s interest.
How to Write a Short Cover Letter
Writing a concise cover letter differs significantly from crafting a general one, which tends to be much longer. Follow these steps to focus on language and precision:
Step 1: Research and Preparation
Begin by thoroughly researching the company and the specific job role to understand their needs and culture. This information allows you to personalize your cover letter effectively. If possible, address the hiring manager by name in your greeting to demonstrate attention to detail.
Step 2: Identify Key Qualifications
Select one or two of your qualifications or experiences that directly align with the job requirements. Use keywords from the job description to highlight your skills. Briefly explain these qualifications with enough detail to showcase your competence and suitability for the role.
Step 3: Prioritize Recent Relevance
Highlight only your most recent career experiences that are relevant to the job. Avoid detailing every previous role, focusing solely on what is applicable.
Step 4: Optimize Content Sections
Identify critical sections such as qualifications and your value proposition. Allocate space judiciously, emphasizing only the most impactful content that aligns closely with the role.
Step 5: Condense and Simplify
Review your writing for lengthy phrases and unnecessary words. Strive to convey more with fewer words while maintaining clarity. Utilize contractions where appropriate (e.g., “I’ll” instead of “I will”, “I’m” instead of “I am”).
Step 6: Enhance Clarity and Readability
Ensure your cover letter is easy to understand and flows smoothly. Avoid ambiguity by improving clarity throughout your content.
Step 7: Review, Refine, and Proofread
Carefully revise your short cover letter for conciseness and relevance. Eliminate any redundant words; each word should serve a clear purpose. Finally, thoroughly proofread your letter for any typos or grammar issues, using tools like Teal’s AI Resume Builder for additional assistance.
