When applying for administrative jobs, a cover letter is your introduction. In just a few succinct paragraphs, you want to be able to convey the most salient information and make a winning first impression. This is your chance to pitch yourself, to make a case as to why they should call you for an interview. You want your voice, your personality and your intelligence to shine through. Here are some tips for crafting a cover letter for administrative jobs:
- A good cover letter must contain NO ERRORS. Proofread 100 times over and ask for a second opinion. A minor error could immediately disqualify you as a viable candidate.
- Make your cover letter about THEM. Before you write, re-read the job posting, look over the company website, pour over news articles and learn as much as you can. Try to describe yourself in terms of how/why you would be a good fit for their enterprise.
- Understand what makes the company unique. It’s not enough to say you want to be a “residence-hall director.” You have to explain how you are good at speaking in large, impersonal residence halls.
- Don’t repeat your resume. People looking to fill administrative jobs do not want to read the same thing twice. You want to express what your goals are and highlight the most important reasons you would be a good fit. Include information that can’t be summarized in a bullet point.
- Be positive, but not cocky. Managers don’t like to read statements like “I’m the best person for this job.” Instead, reveal your qualifications and let readers draw their own conclusions based on the evidence provided.
- Keep it simple. A one page cover letter for administrative jobs is best. Anything over three pages is outrageous. What does the reader absolutely need to know about you? What makes you stand out?