5 Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid As an Entry Level Candidate

As an entry level candidate, landing a new job can be really challenging, especial in a labor market that is over saturated with the CVs of various entry level candidates like yourself. In a situation such as this, how do you distinguish yourself from the crowd?

Your cover letter is a key tool you can utilize to separate yourself from the crowd. However to have a cover letter that stands out, there are certain cover letter pitfall/mistakes you must be aware of and also avoid.

Let’s take a look at some of those mistakes made by other candidates which you must avoid.

Selling Yourself Short

In order to stand out, be confident enough to tell the hiring manager those attributes and skills that differentiates you from other candidates. Your letter must directly relate to the job description, and should tell the employer how you can meet the need of the organization using your skills. Remember you are trying to convince the hiring manager that you are the best candidate for the position, hence you must avoid phrases that do not portray you as the most suitable candidate.

Making Your Cover Letter Too Long

Do not make the mistake of writing a cover letter that is excessively long, because by so doing, you are only giving the recruiter a perfect reason to toss both your cover letter and your CV aside. Your cover letter should be straight to the point, preferably not more than 500 words. Do not overload the recruiter with too much unnecessary information, rather focus on the most important.

Sending the Same Cover Letter to Different Employer

Even if you are applying for the same position, but at different organizations, your cover letter must be customized to each employer respectively. Employers are not the same, and even though they advertise the same position, their requirements might differ. It is important you write your cover letter specifically for respective employers, telling them how you will solve their problem.

Not Following Application Instructions

It’s important to always read the job application instructions carefully and follow the laid down guidelines when writing your cover letter in order not to be disqualified. Employers might ask that you provide certain information, ensure your letter is not more than a stipulated number of words or ask you to use the job title as the subject of the email. Whatever is required of you, ensure you follow the instruction to the last.

Being Overly Formal

Don’t try to be too formal when writing your cover letter, it can be off putting to hiring managers because they will think you are being insincere and overly serious. Rather write your cover letter in a conversational manner, that communicates to the recruiter that you are friendly, approachable and an awesome person they will want to work with.

Since your cover letter elaborates your CV and reinforces the employer’s confidence, you must ensure that it is void of any mistake or error that can cost you the job position.