Military Employment Guide: Cover Letters
Step By Step Guide to Employment: Cover Letters for Military
Cover letters are an important part of the application process. Submit one to introduce yourself to the employer and get them to read your resume. Cover letters allow you to sell yourself and let the employer know you are serious about the job.
There are some things you should do to ensure your cover letter stands out and is taken seriously by the companies you are applying to. Finding that after-military job can take a while, but having a top-notch cover letter can put you ahead of the game.
Make the cover letter personal
Your contact information is super important. Include your name, physical address, telephone number, and professional email address. This may mean creating a new one just for applying for jobs.
You might have to take time to figure out the correct name for the hiring manager, although most of the time, you can find it in the job description. You can do this by searching online, looking on the company website, or simply contacting the company directly for the name.
Sympathize with the company’s issues
Every company has a reason for the position you are applying for. They need to solve a problem, whether it is to bring in more money through sales or attend to the admin work that needs to be done. You can sympathize with the company’s issue, and what they are looking for in a new hire.
Offer yourself as a solution
Once you understand what the company needs, you can offer yourself as a solution. How will you add value? What problems can you help solve? Show in words how what you have done in the past will be good for a future company. If a future employer can see how you can specifically help the company with its mission or goals, you have a higher chance of getting an interview.
Be detailed
Be detailed with your cover letter. You will want to highlight 2-3 of your skills and abilities. You will want to show them what you can bring to the company.
For the time you spent in the military, you can showcase how your military service can help you in a civilian job. You can showcase specific examples of your military experience or skills that show your abilities. Connect what you did in the military to the job you are trying to get.
Go through the job description to figure out what qualifications the employer is looking for. Include any achievements from your time in the military. Don’t include what you are missing. That will not help you be able to get the job.
Keep in mind that your cover letter is not just another resume. It should be no longer than one page, around 3-4 paragraphs.
In conclusion, thank them for their time and consideration and discuss your interest in the job. Let them know that you look forward to further discussing the position with a job interview. Finish the letter with a “Sincerely” and your full name.
You can use a cover letter template. Here are a few places to find them:
Send a paper copy of your cover letter (with resume) directly to the hiring manager
You will be sending a paper copy of your cover letter to the hiring manager along with your resume. Before you do so, make sure you have proofread the cover letter. You want it to be as professional and polished as possible.
Use business letter format and make sure you follow any instructions about the cover letter that is found in the job description. You will want to make sure that you have a cover letter that is customized for each job. You don’t want to use just one for every job you are applying for.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What should I include in a cover letter for a military-to-civilian job application?
Your cover letter should include your contact information, a formal greeting to the hiring manager, and a clear introduction. Highlight 2-3 relevant skills, showcase how your military experience aligns with the job, and explain how you can help solve the company’s challenges. Conclude by expressing your interest in an interview and thank them for their consideration.
How can I make my cover letter stand out to employers?
If possible, make your cover letter personal by addressing the hiring manager by name. Demonstrate your understanding of the company’s needs and present yourself as a solution to their challenges. Use specific examples from your military experience to illustrate how your skills and achievements match the job requirements.
Should I use a cover letter template, and where can I find one?
Yes, using a cover letter template can help ensure your letter is formatted correctly and professionally. Be sure to customize each cover letter to the specific job you are applying for.
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