How To Get The Sales Cover Letter Right Without Overselling Yourself

Mario Churchill asked:


Let’s face it: Competition in getting a sales job is fiercer than other jobs that people apply for. If you are an aspiring salesperson, especially in a formidable company, you have to learn the basic task of getting an interview. Getting an interview amidst a sea of applications can only come when you are able to concoct a striking, convincing and well-written resume cover letter.

Before you are able to sell for that company you aspire to be part of, you need to first sell yourself to them through your cover letter. Your cover letter needs to be written painstakingly well, since this will really be their measuring rod of your selling potential and ability. Those assigned to screen applicants are not often given the power to see applicants unless they have already been shortlisted or categorized according to their qualifications for the job. Your goal is to be part of the short list and not part of those discarded or placed inadvertently at the bottom of the pile of paperworks that they screen.

Make your cover letter top priority material by beefing it up, not with exaggerations but with really neat facts about you. You start with the introduction. Introduce yourself in a manner that is dignified and at the same time, very friendly to the reader. Strike as much positive emotion as possible. Make your first line catchy. Do not let the reader think that you are just another template copier. Make your cover letter as unique as your identity and personality as much as you can handle it.

After an effective introduction, proceed with light marketing of your skills and qualifications. Explain how you heard of the job opening and why you decided to send in your application details. Do not explicitly show that you are after the financial compensation. Instead, convince them that you are worth the high compensation for and that you are actually an asset to the company.

Having ample information about the company is of utmost importance. This is your best arsenal. The more you know, the more you will be able to convince them that you have what they need and that you have what it takes to contribute massively to the company. See their goals, and make sure that it is aligned with your career goals. If this is the case, you can confidently state that in your cover letter. This along with other qualities that will make you stand out among other applicants must be stated in a way that is non-threatening and positively assertive.

Do not overstuff your cover letter but do not leave any hanging sentences. Make sure you are able to explain your points as systematically and clearly as possible. Also, when you do wrap up your cover letter, make it a point to thank the reader for his time and express your enthusiasm and willingness to be interviewed. Give your contact number where you can be best reached. And encourage the reader to peruse other information from your resume, which must match the marketability of your cover letter. The cover letter is a way to encourage the reader to want to know more about you and will be most compelled to read all of your application details. Few employers would go through the rest of the details if they are not impressed enough with the cover letter.