About this video

• Video Title: Write an Amazing Cover Letter: 3 Golden Rules (Template included)
• Channel: Jeff Su
• Speakers: Jeff Su
• Duration: 00:07:26

Overview

This video explains three golden rules for writing an effective cover letter that can help secure a first-round interview. It emphasizes hooking the reader, being purposeful with content, and using a simple, well-formatted template. The speaker also shares a "secret power tip" and offers a downloadable template.

Key takeaways

• Hook the Reader: Start by mentioning a connection to the company or a common perception about the industry, then immediately counter or build upon it. This shows initiative and provides specific insights.
• Be Purposeful: Every sentence and paragraph in your cover letter should have a reason for being there. Avoid redundant information already present in your resume or application, and focus on why you should be considered for an interview.
• Use a Simple Template: Employ a clean and structured format with adequate white space. Using a two-column layout for contact information and incorporating subtle color accents can make the letter more engaging while maintaining professionalism.
• Secret Power Tip: Adjust the formatting of the first letter in your title to be larger than the rest of the text. This creates a unique and professional-looking header that can be scanned by Applicant Tracking Systems.

Amanda did three things in her cover letter:

1. Hooked the reader: She mentioned a common perception about entry-level consulting positions and then countered it, highlighting what made EY stand out to her. This demonstrated initiative and specific insight.
2. Was purposeful: Every part of her letter had a reason to be there. She skipped generic introductions and focused on why she should be considered for an interview, emphasizing relevant achievements and skills like project management and a $2 million project involvement.
3. Used a simple template with good formatting: Her letter was concise and structured, with clear organization and white space. She also used a unique formatting for the header by making the first letter of the title larger.