19 Jan Cover letter: avoid these common mistakes
A cover letter is a must when applying for a job offer. Of course, the CV is more important than the cover letter, however, you should not neglect it. In fact, a bad cover letter will not bring any added value to your application but might reflect poorly on it. So avoid these common mistakes to stand out from others.
1 – Spelling mistakes and a poorly written cover letter
Too often letters of motivation come with spelling mistakes or grammar mistakes. No matter what position you apply for, this cannot be tolerated. It shows one thing: you lack attention in your work!
If you’re applying for an administrative position or a position of responsibility, it’s obvious that this slightest mistake will be crucial. You’re not asked to be a great writer, but you still have to be careful.
Try to make sentences short and clear, which will avoid any confusion. It is essential that the recruiter reads your letter without making too much effort to understand it.
2 – Not mentioning the position you are applying for
Recruiters are required to process applications to fill different roles, so you’d better clearly indicate in your cover letter the role you are applying for. If you don’t specify that, the recruiter will have to look for that information by themselves, and that will make them waste precious time.
It also often happens that companies receive all the applications for different vacancies on the same email address. That is why it is important to be clear.
3 – Summarising your cv in your cover letter
Don’t write your CV again on the cover letter. Only after specifying broad skills can you refer the recruiter to read your CV: your cover letter needs to show there are similarities between your skills and those expected by the company. Your cover letter has to explain why you are the best candidate. It must add value to your CV.
4 – Too much humour
Not everyone may have the same humour as you have, and it’s usually not accepted in a cover letter. If you risk it, make sure that the culture of the company you are applying for is appropriate. Preferably, keep a certain distance and professional tone.
5 – Too many words (or not enough)
If the cover letter should emphasise your determination and your professional skills, it should not in any case give an account of your life. However, it should also not be too concise and provide relevant information about you.
The recruiter who reads you doesn’t have time to read all the letters. as well written as they are. Being professional requires being able to summarise your thoughts and express yourself as clearly as possible. Use short, powerful sentences