How to Structure a Cover Letter?

You are in the middle of the application process but you do not know how to structure your cover letter? We help you see things more clearly. A cover letter cannot be improvised. It is a codified document that always follows the same overall structure. Here are some recommendations for properly structuring your cover letter.

“You”, “Me” and “We”: the invisible structure of your cover letter

Usually, cover letters respond to an invisible structure – so the plan does not appear explicitly in the letter – in three steps. The famous “you”, “me” and “we”.

“You” – why you interest me

Start by talking about the company, training, or job you are applying for. Why did you choose this company over another? Explain what you like about your interlocutor.

Me, what can I bring you

Now is the time to talk about yourself . Your presentation should highlight you. Define your assets, your experience & your knowledge: you must appear interesting and serious to stand out from the others.

“We” – what we can do together

In your letter, you should also relate your skills to the subject of your application. What more do you have than another candidate to make them evolve? What future prospects do you see in this company?

Also read : Cover letter or email? What should we write?

The right structure for a cover letter

Your cover letter should start with the header paragraph: it’s short and aims to expand on the subject of your letter. Then you have to introduce yourself. What is your educational, academic or professional background? What missions have you been given? Then develop your interest in the company or training for which you are applying. What choices led you to choose this company over another?

Finally, explain what you are able to bring to the organization to which you are applying. What assets can you put into their service? When these different presentation times have been written, all you have to do is close your cover letter with a thank you or a request for an interview.

A few more tips for structuring your cover letter

The structure of your cover letter is the first thing your recruiter will see: take care of it. In terms of presentation, you should develop your ideas in short, breezy paragraphs. As far as length goes, your cover letter should obviously not be too short or too long. So try to aim for a maximum page.

Don’t forget to adapt the structure of your cover letter to your interlocutor. We do not always expect the same information in an application for a job, a work-study program or a reorientation of a university course.