How to write an executive cover letter that stands out

Writing a cover letter for an executive job can be a daunting task, as the stakes are high and the competition is fierce. However, with a little bit of planning and attention to detail, you can make sure your cover letter stands out from the rest and lands you an interview.

Tailor your cover letter to the specific job and company

This means doing your research on the company culture, values and mission, as well as the specific responsibilities and qualifications listed in the job posting; use this information to demonstrate how your skills and experience align with what the company is looking for.

For example, let’s say you’re applying for the position of Director of Operations at Kiwi Biz. In your research, you discover that Kiwi Biz is a fast-growing company that values innovation and efficiency. The job posting tells you that the company is looking for someone with experience in streamlining processes and implementing cost-saving measures.

In your cover letter, you could write something like:

“As a Director of Operations with over 10 years of experience in streamlining processes and implementing cost-saving measures, I am excited to apply for the position of Director of Operations at Kiwi Biz. I am particularly drawn to the company’s focus on innovation and efficiency, and I am confident that my experience in these areas would be an asset to the team at Kiwi Biz.”

By highlighting your relevant experience and aligning it with the values and mission of the company, you are demonstrating how you can contribute to the company and how your skills align with what they are looking for.

Use a professional tone and format

Your cover letter should be written in a formal, business-like style, with clear, concise language and proper grammar and punctuation. Use a standard business letter format, with your contact information at the top, followed by the date and the contact information for the hiring manager.

Highlight your most relevant experience and achievements

As an executive, you likely have a long list of accomplishments and experience. However, it’s important to focus on the most relevant and impressive examples in your cover letter. This will help the hiring manager understand how you can contribute to their company and make a positive impact.

Show your enthusiasm and passion

Cover letters are not just about listing your qualifications, they are also an opportunity to show the hiring manager why you are excited about the opportunity to work for their company. Show your enthusiasm for the job and the company, and explain why you are the best fit for the role.

For example, let’s say you’re applying for the position of Chief Marketing Officer at Kia Coaching Ltd. You have done your research and found out that Kia Coaching Ltd is a dynamic and innovative company that values creativity and out-of-the-box thinking.

In your cover letter, you could write something like:

“I am incredibly excited about the opportunity to join the team at Kia Coaching as the Chief Marketing Officer. From my research, I have been impressed by the company’s dynamic and innovative approach to marketing and I am confident that my skills and experience align perfectly with the company’s values. I am particularly excited about the opportunity to bring my creativity and out-of-the-box thinking to the company and help drive the company’s marketing efforts to new heights.”

By showing your enthusiasm for the job and the company, you are demonstrating your commitment and motivation to be a part of the team and make a positive impact.

Proofread and edit your cover letter carefully

Before you submit your cover letter, make sure to proofread and edit it carefully. Check for spelling and grammar errors, and make sure that all the information is accurate and up-to-date.

Up to one page

It is generally recommended you keep the cover letter to one page in length. This is because hiring managers and recruiters are often inundated with CVs and cover letters, and they may not have the time or patience to read through a lengthy document. A one-page cover letter is easy to read and allows you to focus on the most important information. However, in exceptional circumstances, such as when you are applying for a highly technical or specialised position and need to provide additional information, it may be appropriate to exceed one page. In these cases, make sure to prioritise the most important information and keep your document as concise and focused as possible.

By following these tips, you can make sure your cover letter stands out from the rest and lands you an interview for your dream executive job.