A cover letter can be a powerful way to influence a recruiter that they need to learn more about you and to schedule an interview. Use it to go beyond the traditional, boring spiel, and tell them something they can’t learn from your resume. Call out an athletic accomplishment, life achievement, or personal value, and align it to the company’s mission and the job you seek. Use it to stand out.

The resume should showcase your value and how you fit into the job description. The cover letter must prove the company is the right fit for you. Speak about how you connect to their mission/vision statement and believe in the products/services they provide, and you can drive results. I call this a human voice cover letter.

In general order, include the same header used on your resume; a salutation addressed to a specific person; then an opening paragraph that concisely states why you are applying for the role, and why at that company. Next mix in some accomplishments and differentiators that will prompt the reader to say, ”I’ve got to talk to this person.” Finally, wrap up with a positive call for a meeting.

Start with an engaging introduction about what compelled you to apply for that specific position. If you’ve been referred from a notable colleague, mention that right away to grab their attention. Then address how you are uniquely qualified, including your relevant education, experience, or previous successes doing the specific tasks listed in the job description. Close with a call to action.