|June 19, 2023
How To Write A Management CV
If you’re unsure about how to write a management CV, we’ll explain all you need to know in this guide.... Read more...
Your CV is up to date, tailored to the job spec – and triple proof-read.
However, if you’re sending off an application without a cover letter, you’re missing an opportunity to really sell yourself to a potential employer.
And what’s more, if you haven’t considered how to end a cover letter effectively, you’ll have overlooked the chance to leave a lasting impression on the reader.
In this blog, we look at how to end a cover letter by discussing some of the key “rules” of cover letter writing and by sharing some examples of the perfect cover letter ending.
Okay, we hear this one a lot… And fair enough because cover letter writing is not everyone’s favourite task.
However, we’d always advocate writing a cover letter with each application.
Of course, you can’t say for sure how a hiring manager will process applicants, and what weighting they’ll give to your cover letter, but given the competitiveness of the job market, can you afford to turn down the chance to stand out?
A cover letter allows you to tell the story behind your CV and expand on key points. Your enthusiasm for the role can really be carried over and you can demonstrate your writing style and accuracy further.
Writing a cover letter doesn’t need to be a daunting task. We’ve written a handy guide to writing a stand-out cover letter and we also offer cover letter writing packages.
You’ll read differing opinions on how to craft a winning cover letter.
However, there are some universal truths.
Start off on the right note, make sure you address your cover letter appropriately.
Get the tone right. In most cases, this means stick to a formal style. There may be some exceptions to this rule for some roles such as those in creative industries or the media. If you aren’t sure, get some advice.
Lengthwise, always look to keep your cover letter under a page. Expectations vary depending on the type (and seniority) of role, but stats show that 70% of employers look for a cover letter to be under a page – with 44% stating half a side was the ideal.
You haven’t got a lot of space – wasting words is a no-no. And nowhere is this more crucial than the ending of your cover letter.
The end of your letter is your chance to make a final, striking impression on the recruiter. Make it count.
We’ve chosen three examples of how to end a cover letter.
There’s a lot to be said for being enthusiastic at the end of your cover letter. Indeed, you don’t know how many letters the recruiter has worked through that day.
“Without doubt, this is an exciting role, and I believe my skills and experience to date makes me a good fit. I’m eager to prove myself in this competitive environment and am certain of my ability to hit the ground running.”
In this example, the writer really puts their hand up for the role, without over-stepping the line in terms of overconfidence.
Hiring managers want someone who can come in and immediately do a job. If you’re capable of doing that, make sure they know.
It’s worth noting, you don’t have to have all the experience in the world to be confident – there are plenty of ways you can adapt your skills and experiences to a role.
Leave the recruiter in no doubt as to why you’re a good fit for the role.
“To conclude, my experiences to-date of working in a fast-paced setting, where attention to detail and customer-facing communications were crucial, has given me a grounding that I believe would stand me in good stead for the role of XXXXX at your organisation.”
As we’ve stated, a cover letter shouldn’t be too long.
Pick out the headline traits that are cited in the job specification.
Remember, it’s not good enough to simply say you have a skill – show the hiring manager where and how you have demonstrated this.
Good manners are free – and go a long way when it comes to applications.
“Thank you for taking the time to consider my application. I would be delighted to have the opportunity to discuss my suitability for this role further. Should you require any additional information, please do not hesitate to get in touch…”
Hiring managers are busy people – in this example, the writer acknowledges they’ve taken time to get to the bottom of your cover letter.
You’re also looking to make their life easier by highlighting your availability (and demonstrating your enthusiasm).
Next – how do you sign-off? Make sure you pick the appropriate option depending on how you’ve addressed the recruiter (e.g. “yours sincerely/faithfully” or simply ‘kind regards”).
Finally, proofread. And then proofread again.
It’s all very well sounding polite, but if you haven’t bothered to ensure the letter is error-free, you’re totally undermining your efforts.
Be confident.
Summarise your strengths.
Be polite – and accurate.
If you’re able to end a cover letter with these three elements, you’re going to be putting your application in a good place.
We’re on hand to help you write the perfect cover letter – don’t hesitate to get in touch!
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