Summary of "EDHEC Career Centre - About the Cover Letter"

This video provides detailed guidance on how to write an effective Cover Letter that enhances your Job Application and helps you stand out among many candidates. The speaker emphasizes the importance of a well-crafted Cover Letter as a crucial step after preparing your CV.

Main Ideas and Lessons

Importance of a Cover Letter
- A Cover Letter is essential unless the job posting explicitly states otherwise.
- It is a key tool to pitch yourself competitively to employers.
- Many candidates underestimate its value, but employers do read them.
Pre-Writing Preparation: Ask Yourself Three Questions
1. Why am I interested in this company or position?
2. What are my objectives?
3. What can I bring to the company?
Formatting Guidelines
- Include your name, phone number, school email on the right side at the top.
- On the left side, include the receiver’s name, title, company, and address.
- Below that, add the date and the job reference (position and location).
- Start the letter with a formal greeting such as "Dear Sir/Madam" or "To whom it may concern."
- Use a reader-friendly font and size.
- Keep the letter concise: 2-3 paragraphs, ideally 2/3 of a page long.
Structure of the Cover Letter: Three Paragraphs
1. Paragraph 1: Introduction & Motivation
  - Capture the reader’s attention immediately.
  - State who you are, the position you are applying for, and why you are interested.
  - Show you have done research about the company or sector.
  - Avoid copying text from company websites; write your own synthesis.
2. Paragraph 2: Skills & Achievements
  - Focus on your relevant skills and key achievements.
  - Be specific and align your skills with those required in the job posting.
  - Quantify achievements where possible to increase credibility.
  - Answer the recruiter’s question: "Why should I hire you?"
3. Paragraph 3: Mutual Benefits & Closing
  - Explain how your collaboration would be beneficial for both you and the employer.
  - Position yourself as a solution to the company’s needs or problems.
  - End by stating your availability for an interview and express eagerness to hear back.
  - Avoid vague or overly formal closing phrases.
Additional Tips
- Avoid spelling and grammar mistakes.
- Do not make the letter sound generic or like a mass mailing.
- Send the Cover Letter as a PDF attachment along with your CV.
- Keep the accompanying email short, clear, and direct, prompting the recruiter to open the attachments.
- The Cover Letter should complement, not repeat, the CV.
- HR Managers typically spend only 30 seconds to 1 minute reading each Cover Letter, so it must be relevant, clear, and customized.