The right voice: Tips for establishing tone in your cover letter

Imagine this: you’re close to your dream job, the career you’ve longed for years. You’ve polished your resume, highlighting the essential skills and accomplishments. But as you write the cover letter, you realize something crucial—you’re not just selling your qualifications but introducing yourself. In that moment, the tone of your cover letter becomes who you are.

Welcome to the world of cover letters. Words wield the power to inspire confidence or trigger doubt and convey enthusiasm, and this is how you can establish the right tone to get the job you deserve.

Research the Company

The right tone is met when you meet the values of the correct set of people. In this case, your cover letter should be able to match the company culture to let them know that you’re the right person for the job.

Start your research by visiting the company’s official website. Look for information about their mission, values, history, products or services, and any recent news or press releases. Understanding the company’s background is essential for tailoring your cover letter to their specific needs and culture.

You may also follow the company on social media like LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. This will give you insights into their company culture, recent achievements, and how they engage with their audience. 

Finally, websites like Glassdoor and Indeed can give you valuable reviews from their employees. These reviews can provide valuable insights into the company’s work environment. Don’t forget to look for common themes to gain a well-rounded perspective.

Show Enthusiasm

Beyond showcasing your qualifications and skills, it’s essential to convey genuine enthusiasm for the position and company you’re applying to. Employers value candidates who are not only qualified but also passionate about their work. 

Use authentic language throughout your cover letter to convey your excitement. Avoid sounding too formal or robotic for fear of sounding unprofessional. Share your passion for the industry, the company’s mission, and the role you’re applying for.

Example: I’m truly excited about [industry] and enthusiastic about putting my skills and energy to work in support of [Company Name] ‘s mission to [company mission

Use Clear and Confident Language

One of the fundamental principles to keep in mind is to use clear and confident language. 

This means communicating your qualifications, enthusiasm, and intentions with precision and conviction. 

Ambiguity and hesitancy can undermine the impact of your cover letter, so strive to express yourself in a straightforward and assertive manner. Begin by addressing the recipient with a confident and professional salutation. State your purpose for writing the cover letter early on, making it evident why you are the ideal candidate for the position. Use specific examples and quantifiable achievements to support your claims. 

Avoid vague statements or overly formal language that can make you come across as distant or insincere.

Don’t write: “I think I might be a good fit for the position; you can see my CV for more info.” 

Instead, write: “I am confident that my skills and experience make me an excellent match for the position.”

No Matter What, Be Professional

No matter the nature of the job, professionalism in your cover letter is non-negotiable. Your cover letter serves as your initial introduction to a potential employer, and it sets the tone for how you are perceived as a candidate. 

Begin by using a formal salutation that addresses the recipient by name and title, if possible. Maintain a polite and respectful tone throughout your letter. Avoid using overly casual language, slang, or unnecessary informality. While it’s essential to showcase your personality and enthusiasm, remember that your primary goal is to present yourself as a qualified and serious candidate.

Ensure that your cover letter is well-structured and error-free. Proofread it carefully to eliminate any spelling or grammatical mistakes. Use a professional and consistent formatting style, such as a standard business letter format. Providing a professional email address and phone number in your contact information is also crucial. 

Ultimately, a professional tone and presentation not only convey your respect for the hiring process but also reflect your ability to communicate effectively and handle yourself with grace and maturity – qualities that employers often value in potential candidates. 

Remember, a cover letter is more than just a formality; it’s a strategic tool. A well-defined career vision is an important factor in success in the job market – and so is a holistic career development plan. Click here to get started.