If you want a better work-life balance, you need this cover letter

A head-turning opening

An engaging opening coupled with a few powerful sentences can help ensure that anyone reading your letter is interested in continuing. “It’s ideal if you can show that you understand the other organization’s values ??and highlight your strengths,” says StepStone’s Charlotte Ulvros. Show that you actually read the job ad. In the pursuit of efficiency, job seekers sometimes tend to use the same cover letter when applying for multiple jobs. While this saves time in the short term, it can have disastrous consequences in the long term. "Employers will quickly be able to tell if a candidate has read the job ad. If your cover letter doesn't demonstrate that your qualifications match the job, this will significantly reduce your likelihood of getting an interview," says Ulvros. Show you care about the company. Mentioning recent events or news related to the company or industry in your cover letter is a useful strategy for impressing potential employers. "It's always useful to show that you care about information that's important to the company. But don't try to do some complicated analysis - that could backfire. Also be prepared to talk more about what you mentioned in the letter during the final interview information." Ulvros said. Be Simple and Clear While we all have amazing stories to tell about our illustrious careers, it’s important to resist the urge to write a lengthy cover letter. Remember what you learned in English class. Concise paragraphs and logical flow of text will help convince recruiters that you can express yourself clearly.

Avoid generalities

Sentences like "I have proven my ability to manage and multi-task in a variety of situations" do not indicate what exactly a candidate can do . Ulvros suggests being more specific. "Include specific information that relates to your 'soft skills,' or give specific examples to help readers understand your professional achievements," she says. "Include content that is relevant to the job you want, rather than applicable to anyone. Broad statements about hard work and teamwork for the position ”

Ditch unnecessary modesty

There may be a dislike of bragging or talking about your reputation, but don’t talk indirectly about it. Your accomplishments or making the employer feel like they're doing you a favor by hiring you—doing so will weaken the persuasiveness of your cover letter. "The last thing you want to do is come across as unreliable to an employer. Credibility is all about credibility. Presenting your career accomplishments confidently is the best argument for why the organization should hire you," Ulvros says. Tell them why you want to work there Recruiters want to know what motivates you in the first place, and a cover letter is the perfect place to provide your reasons. However, Ulvros cautions against coloring your letter with "empty" statements. "It's important to show that you've really taken the time to research the company. Today, people are not applying for a job, they are selling themselves to that job," she said. Personalize Cover letters are called "personligt brev" for a reason. “Swedish employers want to read about you in your cover letter. They want to know who you are and why they should hire you,” says StepStone’s Ulvors. “Show them that you have a life outside of work. . Work-life balance is very important in Sweden, so tell them in a sentence or two that you have this life.” Spell check, spell check, spell check This may go without saying, but. We would like to remind you again: double-check this letter to make sure there are no careless mistakes or incorrect grammar. In today's tough job market, even one misplaced comma can cause your job application to fall by the wayside.