CFA VIRTUAL FRANCHISE CAREER FAIR // ATTENDEE RESOURCE

Anatomy of a
Cover Letter
Opening Paragraph
Address the hiring manager who posted the role or use Dear/Hi [Company]
Team (avoid guessing who it is if you don't know and delete 'To whom it may
concern'.
If someone referred you or you have a mutual connection, mention them as you
would in your email.
Show enthusiasm about the role/company and be specific.
Get straight to the point with your value proposition to the company - what can
you bring to the team?

Second Paragraph
Tell me you'd ve a great fit without literally saying "I'd be a perfect fit"
Expand on and show how you can bring value to the company with your relevant
skills and experience. Bring numbers into this as much as you are able (show how
you've created great results in the past through data)
Use key words from the job posting knowing that most companies use applicant
tracking systems (ATS) before a human will read your letter.

Third Paragraph
Now focus on why the company matters to you. Show that you've done your
research and understand their culture, pain points, successes, and values.
What impresses you about the company? Be specific and descriptive.
Do you have any great ideas or insights you'd like to share with them?
Consider using the company's tone/voice in your cover letter (especially if the job
posting used a notable one)
CFA VIRTUAL FRANCHISE CAREER FAIR // ATTENDEE RESOURCE

Anatomy of a
Cover Letter
Closing
Bundle up your points and make your final offer.
Let them know that you have more to share and haven't already given
everything away (ex. so they'll be intrigued to hear more of your ideas and
strategies for the role in the interview)
Consider adding a postscript (P.S.) to share a tidbit about yourself to catch the
hiring manager's attention or reiterate your excitement for the company.

Formatting Tips
Use an easy-to-read basic font like Arial, Veranda, Times New Roman, Calibri,
Helvetica, or Cambria in size 11 or 12.

Use 1 or 1.5 letter spacing and double spaces between each paragraph.

Add a digital e-signature as well as your written full name for a professional
sign-off.

Left align everything.

Save and send as a PDF.

Rename the file to have your full name, "Cover Letter" and the role title.

Ensure your cover letter is a single page.