Just like with the CV, it is most probably a robot that is looking through your Cover Letter.

Most companies and recruiters use robots and algorithms to go through the main keywords of your text to find a match between their requirements and your experience.

HACK THE SYSTEM

The job description always has keywords and phrases that correspond to the type of person they are looking for. Therefore, most of the requirements are hinted in the job description. Every time you see a keyword or a skill, mark it so that you use it in your Cover Letter. Make sure you use their synonyms as well. Unfortunately, not all the requirements will be hinted in the job description as some of that information is  internal. Therefore you need to make the most with what you are given.

If it is a human reviewing it, then they will probably have a list of requirements too, and will have the same behavior as the robots. However it is a bit more easy to convince a human by showing energy and passion through the choice of words and sentences. Therefore do not forget to sound eloquent as well!

SOFT SKILLS > HARD SKILLS

Most multinationals are now looking for soft skills rather than hard skills. They believe that anyone, with the right training, can learn how to do a certain thing. However, it is the behaviour and the mindset of that employee that is going to determine how well they perform. Are you coachable? Do you welcome feedback easily, even if it’s constructive criticism? Behavior and mindset is harder to teach. Companies would rather attract people who already have the right mindset and values. This will help them make your transition into the company smoother.

MY STEP-BY-STEP APPROACH

1. Make a list of the keywords & phrases present in the Job Description and representing the requirements
2. Pick out from your list of achievements, experiences and success stories that match the skills and requirements needed for the job.
3. Think about the structure of your cover letter, think storytelling. Do not list achievements. Figure out what are the 2 or 3 main behavioral requirements and match them with 2 or 3 experiences proving that you are what they are looking for.
4. Write the first draft
5. Aim to shorten it and make is as poignant as possible. You can do that by always ending the paragraphs with a result that you achieved. The more data and percentages you can add the better. The cover letter should not exceed one page. I aim for half a page.
6. Add in as many keywords and phrases you can. Do not worry if not all of them make the cut. Try at least half.
7. Take a break. You want to review your cover letter with fresh eyes. Ideally the morning after.
8. Refine.

This methodology has helped countless of the students I have been working with one-to-one. I hope it helps you and feel free to contact me if you have any further question.

HOW CAN WE CAN HELP EACH OTHER (ONLINE OPPORTUNITY)

If you are struggling to find experience and are interested in Copywriting, Marketing or Entrepreneurship then we are looking for people to become editors of this website. I will form you and teach you everything I know. If you want to get involved with this blog then please do not hesitate to contact me via this Contact Form or via my Instagram account. This is a unique opportunity. Again, you can contact me for more details on how this may help you!

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES FOR YOU

Over the years I have created many guides and checklist that aim to help you save time. Here are a list of them just in case you might miss out on a few:

1. My 1st E-Book: a resource that has help me become a boss at Time Management. Moreover, it has also helped me create more time for what I love and get to my goals faster. It is lengthy, however it is arguably the best Time Management piece of research out there.
2. The Time Management Actionable Sheets: a summary of my E-Book. These sheets have conserved the absolute essential actions you need to take to make the most out of your time. Do not skip any steps!
3. My Before & After CV Transformation: a resource that has collected my CVs for the past 7 years to help you not only craft a great CV, but to also show you that everyone can start mediocre and grow exponentially.
4. How To Land a Job Faster Guide: a resource that aims to give you all of the tips and recommendations I have used during my career. This will help you avoid some common mistakes students do when starting off with their job applications.

MY OBJECTIVE IS AND WILL FOREVER BE TO HELP YOU

To conclude, the aim of this website is to help you have the best fresh start at University and with your career. There is nothing that gives me more happiness and joy but to hear your positive feedback on how helpful my content has been. Contact me if you have any feedback for me!

BEST OF LUCK WITH IT ALL!!!!

Much affection,

Francesca Michaud