Formatting for architects
As an architect, you’ll know the importance of structure, and structure is also an essential part of any successful cover letter. The best cover letters have clear, organised structure and formatting. The main sections of a cover letter are as follows:
- Header
- Greeting
- Introduction
- Body Paragraphs
- Conclusion
We’ve developed a guide for architects to help you create powerful cover letters that pack a punch. While we’ll help guide you through the process, it’s important to understand why cover letters are an essential part of securing your next job. At CVapp.ie, we’ve helped millions of professionals land their dream job role. We’ve learned that a compelling CV and cover letter are your greatest tools for professional success. Don’t know where to start? We’ve got you covered. Let’s start with the cover letter header:
Header
Cover letter headers should be well structured and presented attractively and professionally, as they are often the first section potential employers notice on your cover letter. Headers contain important contact information, such as your name, email, phone number and any links to professional social networking sites. If an employer is interested in you, they’ll check out your header to find out how to contact you – so it’s important that your header is appropriate. Loud, flashy headers are likely an unsuitable option for more traditional and formal careers. Unsure what cover letter header is the right match for you? Don’t worry – we’ve got a diverse range of templates and header examples for you to choose from. Whether you’re applying for a job that requires a professional, simple, modern or creative template, we’ve got something for everyone.
It’s also important that any links to professional networking sites don’t direct employers to any sensitive or inappropriate content. That means avoid including social networking sites that may show you in any unprofessional settings. Some applicants might also like to include their physical mailing address, however this is not always essential. With our top tips, tools and resources, we’ll help you create the perfect architect cover letter.
Greetings
Although it seems simple, including a professional and appropriate greeting can be essential to securing your prospective job role. The inverse is also true – including an inappropriate or unprofessional greeting can also have your cover letter sent to the “DO NOT REPLY” pile before potential employers even get to know you – and we don’t want that!
Opting for a greeting such as “Dear Mr. McMahon,” or “Dear Mrs. Walsh” can be a great way to greet employers. We also recommend greeting employers in this format as it adds a personal touch – if you know the name of your potential employer or hiring manager, be sure to include it! People love reading their own names, and the sense of recognition personalised greetings can evoke only increases your chances of getting noticed and getting hired faster. If you don’t know the name of your potential employer, you can always reach out to the company and ask who you should address your cover letter to. If no further details can be given, simply find an appropriate greeting and address it to the company. For example: “Dear Company X.” Looking good!
Introduction
Your introduction is where employers get to know you, so start your introduction off with some creative, engaging sentences that entice employers to keep on reading. If you get stuck on what to write, start off by including your motivations for applying for the role, and briefly address any relevant skills, qualifications or experiences that would make you an ideal candidate for the job role. Be sure not to expand too much – you’ll want to save this for your body paragraphs. Simply give potential employers a brief preview that you can elaborate on in the following paragraphs. Always be sure to keep your tone of voice professional and appropriate. We recommend checking out the social media or websites of your company to learn more about them. This also helps with identifying the tone of voice you should be using – try matching it to the tone of voice of the company! If you’re still unsure, use a professional tone of voice. The main goal of a cover letter is to get the reader interested with an engaging introduction and back it up with some compelling body paragraphs. Check out our next section for tips on creating body paragraphs that score you your next job!
Body Paragraphs
Your body paragraphs are often considered the most important part of your cover letter. This is where you discuss your professional details in-depth. Use actionable, specific details, including facts, figures or anecdotes that can help convey the professional value you can add to the role. Body paragraphs are also a great place to add details that are not immediately obvious in your CV, e.g., gaps in your employment history or other facts and details you’d like employers to know. You might also like to include any relevant achievements that cannot be efficiently expressed in your CV. Remember – be as specific as possible!
Conclusion
Your conclusion is your final chance to impress employers – so finish with a flourish! We recommend including a call-to-action statement, such as “I would love to connect with you at your earliest convenience and discuss more details about this role.” Conclusions are also a great place to thank potential employers for their time and consideration. Although conclusions are not as detailed as your body paragraphs, you’ll want to keep the same professionalism throughout your entire cover letter. Sign off with a suitable greeting, such as “Best wishes,” “Kind regards” or “Yours sincerely.” Now you’re ready to start sharing your cover letter with the world!
