Do you know that ATS rejects around 75% of cover letters because of improper formatting? This means that only a quarter of applications actually reach human eyes. However, even after that crucial hurdle, there’s no guarantee of approval from a human recruiter.
So, how can you create a business cover letter that successfully navigates this double challenge and opens the doors to your dream job? The answer is simple: you’ve to craft a persuasive and error-free cover letter.
To accomplish this, you must infuse your business cover letter with the blend of qualifications, skills, and achievements tailored to the job post. However, that’s not enough; there are many more aspects you’ll need to consider while penning this important document.
With that in mind, let’s explore the best tips for writing a good business cover letter that not only survives the ATS scrutiny but also impresses hiring managers. And as a bonus, we’ll provide you with a ready-made template so you can kickstart your journey of landing your dream business job.
Business Cover Letter Example
Full Name
Address
Phone Number
Email Address
Hiring Manager’s Full Name
Job Title
Company Name
Company Address
To: Hiring Manager Full Name, Date
Dear Mr./Ms./Mx. Hiring Manager Last Name,
I am writing to express my sincere interest in the Business Development Manager position at ABC Company, as recently advertised on the XYZ website. With over a decade of experience in this field, I am enthusiastic about the prospect of contributing my expertise to your dynamic team.
During my tenure at OPQ Inc., I had the privilege of leading a high-performing sales and business development team. Under my guidance, we not only achieved but consistently exceeded our annual revenue targets. Over a three-year period, we saw revenue growth of 45%, which translated to a remarkable $12 million in additional sales. This achievement underscores my ability to craft and execute strategic initiatives that drive substantial business growth.
In terms of skills, I bring a comprehensive blend of hard and soft skills to the table. On the hard skills front, I am well-versed in market analysis, competitive intelligence, and strategic planning. My ability to identify emerging trends, develop data-driven strategies, and execute them effectively has consistently delivered tangible results.
In addition, I possess a range of soft skills that are crucial for effective leadership and collaboration. I am an excellent communicator, being able to convey complex ideas clearly to team members and clients alike.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing how my experience and skills can contribute to ABC Corporation’s growth and success. Please feel free to contact me on (your phone number or email address) at your convenience for an interview.
Sincerely,
Leah Richards
Write a Standout Business Cover Letter
Unsure about how to write a persuasive business cover letter? Here are 6 practical tips to help you get started:
1. Utilize professional headers in your business cover letter
When writing a cover letter for a business job application, it’s crucial to create a professional and well-organized document. One of the first things that will catch the reader’s eye is the header of your cover letter. Here are some tips on how to make the most of it:
- Include your name, address, phone number, and email address at the top of the cover letter. Ensure this information is accurate and up to date.
- Beneath that, add the hiring manager’s full name and job title along with the name and address of the company.
- Begin your cover letter with a formal salutation. For example, “Dear Mr. Smith.” Avoid using generic openings like “To Whom It May Concern.”
- Mentioning a subject line can help clarify the purpose of your letter. For example, “Re: Business Analyst Position Application.” This can be especially useful if you’re applying via email.
By creating a well-structured and professional header, you leave a positive first impression on business recruiters and demonstrate your attention to detail. It also helps your cover letter appear organized and easy to read, which can effectively bypass ATS systems.
2. Tailor your cover letter according to the business job
One of the most critical aspects of writing an effective cover letter is tailoring it to the specific business job you’re applying for. Generic, one-size-fits-all cover letters rarely lead to an interview call. To create a customized cover letter that stands out, start by thoroughly researching the company and the job position.
Also, begin your cover letter by addressing it to the hiring manager using their full name. Doing so demonstrates that you’ve taken the time to research and personalize your application. If you can’t find a specific name, consider using a general salutation such as “Dear Hiring Manager.”
Next, delve into the details of the organization. Mention different aspects of the company’s mission, vision, or recent achievements that align with your own goals. This personalized approach significantly increases your chances of securing an interview.
3. Quantify your achievements as a business professional
In the world of business, numbers speak volumes, and employers are always looking for candidates who can demonstrate their impact and contributions in quantifiable terms. Thus, when writing your cover letter, avoid vague statements and instead focus on specific achievements.
Use metrics, percentages, and figures to illustrate your successes. For example, rather than saying you “improved sales,” say you “increased sales revenue by 30% in six months.” These quantifiable accomplishments not only make your cover letter more compelling but also provide concrete evidence of your abilities.
Moreover, doing so makes your case stronger and also shows that you understand the importance of measurable results in the business world. Simply put, it allows recruiters to see the tangible value you can bring to their organization.
Business Resume Template
4. Mention the soft & hard skills required in the business field
Business professionals need a diverse skill set encompassing both hard (technical) and soft (interpersonal) skills. In your cover letter, acknowledge this by mentioning a balanced mix of these skills.
Hard skills might include:
- Proficiency in data analysis
- Financial modeling
- Software expertise
You can complement these well with soft skills such as communication, leadership, teamwork, and adaptability. Don’t forget to tailor these skills to align with the job’s specific requirements.
Highlight how your unique combination of hard and soft skills makes you an ideal candidate. For instance, if you’re applying for a project management role, discuss your technical project management software proficiency. In addition, also emphasize your ability to lead teams, communicate effectively, and adapt to changing project requirements.
5. Showcase your enthusiasm for the role
Your passion for the job and the company should shine throughout your business cover letter. Here’s a step-wise guide to help you do it:
- Start by explaining why you’re interested in this particular position and company.
- Mention specific aspects of the job description or the company’s mission that resonate with you.
- Share your excitement to tackle the industrial challenges.
- Use an enthusiastic tone to show your genuine interest in opportunities offered by the role.
- Avoid generic statements like “I am enthusiastic about this opportunity” and instead provide concrete reasons for your enthusiasm.
Remember, your enthusiasm can be a deciding factor, especially when employers are choosing between several qualified applicants. It sets you apart and shows that you’re not just looking for any job but are genuinely interested in the company and the role you’re applying for.
6. Proofread your cover letter for the business-related position
Once you have a final cover letter draft ready, do not make the mistake of sending it right away. Instead, double-check everything from headers to content and formatting. Also, make sure you read it aloud to spot punctuation, grammatical, or vocabulary errors. For more polished outcomes, you can use tools like Grammarly to detect mistakes automatically.
After you’re done proofreading the business cover letter yourself, don’t forget to ask for feedback. You can consider taking help from a friend or a family member for this purpose. Having your content read from a fresh perspective can help you point out issues that you might have overlooked mistakenly.
Business Cover Letter Key Takeaways
- Start your cover letter with a polished header, including your contact information and the recipient’s details. Use a professional font and maintain consistent formatting throughout to make a positive first impression.
- Customize each cover letter to match the specific role you’re applying for. Research the company and job requirements, and align your skills and experiences with their needs.
- Use metrics and numbers to illustrate your successes and contributions. Concrete, quantifiable accomplishments provide evidence of your impact in previous roles.
- Sound genuinely interested in the business role. An enthusiastic tone in a business cover letter can go a long way.
- Proofread your document and ask for help from someone else to provide honest feedback.
