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How Important Are Writing Skills in Today’s Job Market?

With the future of work changing at such a rapid pace, employers are searching for ways to assess job applicants’ skills and knowledge. One way is through the written word. In a world of digital communication, electronic applications, and screen-based interactions, the written word is still significant in defining who you are as a human being and what you know.

While most people are familiar with the purpose of a resume, the effectiveness of a cover letter in securing employment is something that may not be as obvious. A cover letter is a personal introduction that accompanies your resume. Its purpose is to establish your candidacy for the job you are applying for in a concise and compelling manner.

Writing a cover letter can be challenging. When done well, a cover letter has the ability to stand out among a heap of similar emails. It can be used to introduce you to the employer, make them aware of your relevant skills and experience, and entice them to consider you for the position.

What Does a Good Cover Letter Look Like?

When crafting your cover letter, it is important to bear in mind the structure that makes up a solid business letter. Like a business letter, your cover letter should be concise and to the point. However, a business letter is more formal in nature and aims to prove a point, whereas a cover letter is informal in nature and should serve as a succinct introduction to your existing or future employer.

Accordingly, your cover letter should not contain any spelling errors or grammatical errors. It should be easy to read and follow.

A good cover letter will also incorporate the following elements:

  • An engaging and informative opening.
  • A concise and compelling business case.
  • Supporting evidence.
  • A convincing closing.

The opening of your cover letter should intrigue the employer to learn more about you. Some tips to help you craft an effective opening:

  • Personalize the letter.
  • Customize the letter according to the employer.
  • Use phrases that the employer is more likely to understand.
  • Include a call to action.

A good cover letter will hook the employer and ensure they consider you for the job.

The Importance Of The Business Case

The business case is one of the three main elements of a business letter. A business case for employment should include the following elements:

  • An explanation of the problem you are solving (or the need you are filling)
  • Your proposed solution to the problem
  • The advantages your proposal brings to the table
  • Your qualifications and expertise

Like a resume, a business case can be used to demonstrate your skills and experience. However, a business case is more specialized in that it is supposed to prove what you know and how you will contribute to the organization.

An engaging business case will make your letter stand out among the rest. When crafting your business case, keep in mind the following:

  • The case should be concise and to the point.
  • Each element should be relevant to the issue at hand.
  • The structure should be easy to follow.
  • Use language that is familiar to the employer.

The closing of your business case should leave the employer feeling confident that they made the right decision in hiring you. Some tips to help you close a business case:

  • Summarize the main points you made in your business case.
  • Use memorable statements.
  • Include a call to action.
  • Follow up with a personal note.

A well-written letter will not only secure you a job. It will also make you stand out among a crowd of similar applicants.