Preparing Your Cover Letter

With such fierce competition, having an impressive cover letter can do wonders in helping you stand out.

1 Show, don’t tell

Keep to the standard structure. Start with a brief introduction of yourself and explain why you’re dedicated to pursuing a career with the company. Be clear on the specific position you’re applying for, explain why it’s of interest to you, and convince the hiring manager that you’re a good fit.

Be succinct and avoid falling into the trap of rambling too much on your personality, skills and qualifications – recruiters can assess these for themselves when they go through your application and resume. Similarly, avoid describing yourself with words such as “passionate” and “ambitious”; these qualities are better exuded in person during the interview.

2 Prove your competence

Read the job description and address the selection criteria to better highlight relevant experiences that could put you in the best position in the running for the job. For instance, if you’re gunning for a management accountant role, you could mention a 35 per cent increase in returns for a specific project you previously worked on.

In the same vein, explain how your skills can be put to good use in a specific role. For example, if you have extensive knowledge in international current affairs, show how it can benefit the investment banking analyst position on offer because markets and investors are affected by key events around the world. After doing some comprehensive research about your potential employer, make use of the information to include specific aspects of the business that appeal to you and show how you can add value to their culture.

One way to stand out is to mention events organised by the firm that you’ve previously attended, or if you’ve visited the company’s booth at a career fair. Name-dropping employees that you’ve met will also add an earnest touch to the cover letter.

By showing your enthusiasm through networking and initiative in building relations with the company, you can score an advantage over other candidates. Last but not least, be sure to take a break from your cover letter and check it again later; you’re more likely to spot any mistakes with fresh eyes. After that, print it out and look through it. If this is the first time you’re writing a cover letter, get someone with a good command of English to help you proofread it.

Use a spellchecker to catch any grammar mistakes as these errors reveal a lack of attention to detail, which is a big no-no for the financial sector. Having clear and appropriate points in your cover letter will, however, show the recruiters your effective communication skills and strong writing skills.

3 Demonstrate your enthusiasm 4 Do a thorough check

Dear Mr Lim,

I am writing to apply for the Marketing Data Junior Analyst position with the Consumer Banking Group at OCBC Bank, as advertised on gradsingapore.com. My conversations with current employees at your networking session in June this year have reinforced my interest in the bank and cemented my belief that I have the expertise and skills that you are looking for.

Throughout my three years of study at Nanyang Business School in Nanyang Technological University, which included a 10-week professional attachment with OCBC Bank, I have developed a practical understanding of creating impactful marketing campaigns for financial institutions.

In addition, I participated in a 6-month internship with Standard Chartered Singapore where I gained valuable experience in not only analysing customer data for valuable insights to help internal stakeholders and management create segments, but also reviewing marketing communications plans to ensure optimal results.

My resume is enclosed for your consideration. I am keen to discuss any opportunity in person and am available for an interview at any time. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Yours sincerely, Jane Poh