Picture this: you’re on the other side of the hiring desk, reading through stacks of cover letters. Which ones will catch your attention? The ones that speak to your needs, or the ones that focus on the applicant’s wants?

Dr. Rudolph Flesch, an esteemed American researcher, stumbled upon a fascinating finding: readers are more drawn to writings peppered with “you” and related words (like “your” or “yours”). These personalized words resonate more than self-centered words like “me,” “I,” or “our.”

With this in mind, reimagine how you frame your next cover letter.

Ditch the:

• “I possess vast experience in…”
• “I’m on the lookout for…”
• “I envision joining a firm where…”
• “I aspire to find a role where I can…”

Swap those out for:

• “Your recent post suggests you seek someone with…”
• “Immense value to your organisation is delivered through my experiences including…”
• “By bringing me on board, your team stands to gain…”

Let’s be real: your reader doesn’t know you personally. Their primary concern isn’t your goals or aspirations, even if hiring you aligns with their interests. They’re invested in their company’s growth, reputation, and success.

Flip the narrative. Address the company’s aspirations and needs. Tune into the universal frequency every decision-maker resonates with: WIIFM (What’s In It For Me). And just like that, you’ve got a cover letter that stands out in the crowd.