cover letter strong communication skills

In an increasingly digitized world, where customer-centric strategies are vital for business success, I am thrilled to apply for the [Job Title] position at HubSpot."

Unhelpful Cover Letter Introduction:

"To Whom it May Concern,

I am applying for the [Job Title] position at HubSpot. I have some experience in marketing and can help your clients grow their businesses."

Relevant Professional Experience

It can be tempting to use the same cover letter for every job. After all, it‘s about your experience, isn’t it? But it's not enough to rephrase the work history in your resume.

Recruiters and hiring managers are looking to fill a specific role, so you need to show how your experience translates to their unique needs.

So, the body of a great cover letter should showcase the specific professional experiences that are relevant to the job you're applying for. Emphasize your accomplishments and skills that directly relate to what the job needs.

To speed up this part of the cover letter writing process, start by creating a list of your transferable skills . Drafting this list can help you quickly focus on the skills to highlight in your cover letter.

Then, use AI tools to summarize job descriptions and narrow in on where your experience and the needs of the role you're applying for overlap. This post is full of useful AI assistant tools if you're new to AI.

Helpful Cover Letter Experience:

“At [Company Name], I had the opportunity to assist a global ecommerce retailer in enhancing their online customer experience. By conducting in-depth market research and customer journey mapping, I identified pain points and areas of improvement in their website navigation and user interface.”

Unhelpful Cover Letter Experience:

“I also worked with an ecommerce retailer to improve the customer experience. We did some surveys and training, and they were happy with the results.”

Useful Examples

To make your cover letter stand out, add specific examples that show how you've solved problems or gotten results in past roles.

Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible, using data to give the reader a clear understanding of your impact.

Helpful Cover Letter Example:

“I lead a team of five content writers while increasing website traffic by 18% year-over-year.”

Unhelpful Cover Letter Example:

“I have a great track record of leadership and achieving fantastic results.”

Research and Company Knowledge

Hiring teams aren‘t hiring anyone with the skills to do the job. They’re hiring a person they'll work alongside at their specific company.

So, to show that you‘re not just looking for any job anywhere, share your knowledge of the company’s industry, values, and culture in your cover letter.

Spend some time on the company website and take notes on what makes this business interesting to you and why you would want to work there.

Then, explain how your skills align with the company's mission and goals and explain how you could add to their chances of success. This will showcase your interest in the company and help them see if you are a good cultural fit.

Helpful Cover Letter Research:

“I was particularly drawn to HubSpot not only for its industry-leading solutions but also for its exceptional company culture. HubSpot's commitment to employee development and fostering a collaborative environment is evident in its recognition as a top workplace consistently. I strongly believe that my passion for continuous learning, self-motivation, and dedication to contributing to a team will make me a valuable asset to HubSpot.”

Unhelpful Cover Letter Research:

“I have been inspired by HubSpot's commitment to inbound marketing and its comprehensive suite of solutions. HubSpot's dedication to providing valuable content and fostering meaningful relationships aligns with my own values and aspirations.”

Clear Writing

Your cover letter needs to pack in a lot of important information. But it's also important that your cover letter is clear and concise.

To accomplish this, use professional but easy-to-understand language. Be sure to remove any grammar or spelling errors and avoid lengthy paragraphs and avoid jargon or overly technical language.

You may also want to use bullet points to make your letter easier to skim. Then, proofread your cover letter for clarity or ask a friend to proofread it for you.

• Guide to Becoming a Better Writer
• Tips for Simplifying Your Writing

Helpful Cover Letter Writing:

"In addition to my academic accomplishments, I gained valuable practical experience through internships at respected law firms.

Working alongside experienced attorneys, I assisted in providing legal support to clients. This hands-on experience helped me develop a deep understanding of client needs and enhanced my ability to effectively communicate complex legal concepts in a straightforward manner."

Unhelpful Cover Letter Writing:

"Furthermore, as a complement to my academic accomplishments, I have garnered invaluable practical experience through internships at esteemed law firms.

Throughout these placements, I actively collaborated with seasoned attorneys to conduct due diligence and furnish clients with comprehensive legal support. Notably, these experiences fostered a profound comprehension of client necessities, whilst honing my legal acumen to articulately convey intricate legal principles within a lucid and concise framework, adhering to applicable precedents and statutes of limitations."

Genuine Interest and Enthusiasm

Find ways to convey your passion for the role and how excited you are to contribute to the company you're applying to. At the same time, make sure your interest feels authentic and outline how it aligns with your career goals.

Your ultimate goal is an enthusiastic letter that feels honest and leaves a lasting positive impression.

Showing excitement in writing doesn't come naturally for everyone. A few tips that can help you boost the genuine enthusiasm in your letter:

• Record audio of yourself speaking about the role, then use voice-to-text technology to transcribe and add these sections to your letter.
• Choose your words carefully .
• Write in active voice.

Helpful Cover Letter Tone:

“I am genuinely enthusiastic about the prospect of joining [Company/Organization Name] as an accountant. My combination of technical proficiency, eagerness to learn, and strong attention to detail make me an ideal candidate for this role. I am confident that my dedication, reliability, and passion for accounting will contribute to the continued success of your organization.”

Unhelpful Cover Letter Tone:

“Honestly, I can hardly contain my excitement when it comes to reconciliations, financial statement analysis, and tax regulations! Engaging in spirited discussions with professors and classmates has allowed me to foster an unbreakable bond with the fascinating world of accounting, and I'm positively bursting with enthusiasm at the prospect of applying my skills in a professional setting.”

Memorable Conclusion

End your cover letter on a strong note. Summarize your top qualifications, restate your interest in the position, and express your interest in future communication.

Then, thank your reader for their time and consideration and include your contact information for easy follow-up.

To make your conclusion memorable, think about what parts of your letter you‘d most like the hiring manager to keep top of mind. Then, consider your word choice and phrasing. If you’re feeling stuck, this list of ways to close an email can help.

Helpful Cover Letter Conclusion:

"Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to further discuss how my qualifications align with the needs of Greenpeace. Please feel free to contact me at your convenience to arrange an interview.

Together, let's make a lasting impact on our planet.

[Your Name]"

Unhelpful Cover Letter Conclusion:

"Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my qualifications further and how I can contribute to Greenpeace's mission. Please feel free to contact me at your convenience to arrange an interview.

I’d like to add another stage to the job search: experimentation.

In today’s competitive landscape, it’s so easy to feel defeated, less-than-good-enough, or like giving up your job search.

But don’t let the process become so monotonous. Have fun discovering the qualitative data I’ve discussed here — then, have even more by getting creative with your cover letter composition.

I certainly can’t guarantee that every prospective employer will respond positively — or at all — to even the most unique, compelling cover letter. But the one that’s right for you will.

So, get inspired by these examples and templates. Write an incredible cover letter that shows the hiring team at your dream job exactly who you are.

Editor's note: This post was originally published in October 2020 and has been updated for comprehensiveness. This article was written by a human, but our team uses AI in our editorial process. Check out our full disclosure to learn more about how we use AI.

Don't forget to share this post!

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Important Communication Skills for Resumes & Cover Letters

What Are Communication Skills?

Types of communication skills, written communication, verbal communication, nonverbal communication.

• Reconciliation / Conflict Management

Communication Mediums

More communication skills.

Regardless of the job you're applying for, employers will expect you to have excellent written and verbal communication skills . Depending on the position, you will need to be able to communicate effectively with employees, managers, and customers in person, online, in writing, and on the phone.

As with any other skill set, your communication abilities are demonstrated by your professional employment history. In your application materials and your interview, you can draw attention to how your prior experiences exemplify your communication skills.

Some jobs require different skills than others, so review the job posting to see what the employer is seeking in applicants.

Then take the time to  match your credentials to the job requirements , so you can show the employer you're a strong match for the job.

It may seem simple enough to say, “I know how to communicate.” However, those with little experience communicating with people from different walks of life don’t realize how complicated communication can be.

How many times have you ever said or written something to someone that they took the wrong way? This happens in the workplace all the time. The best employers need leaders that can exercise care in their ability to listen and respond to customers and fellow employees.

Employers look for applicants with superior written and verbal communication skills for almost every job they hire for.

Writing well is a major component of your professionalism. Many talented people often do not write well. Poor writing not only makes an exchange of ideas and information less efficient, but it also makes you look unintelligent. Learning to write well has an important side effect; because clear, readable text is also well-organized, straightforward, and concise, learning to write also teaches you to speak and to think better.

• Advertising 
• Business Storytelling
• Content Management
• Content Strategy
• Correspondence
• Microsoft Office
• Speech Writing
• Technical Writing  

Verbal (also called “oral”) communication skills  are essential for those with jobs in a traditional workplace and for employees whose tasks include extensive use of telephones. While verbal communication skills are probably most important for those in sales, customer service, and public relations, anyone who has to interact face-to-face with supervisors and colleagues needs to be able to express themselves clearly and succinctly.

• Articulating
• Multilingual
• Negotiation
• Presentation
• Public Speaking
• Telephone Etiquette

Nonverbal communication  includes vocal tone, eye contact patterns, body language, and more. Nonverbal communication often carries more weight than verbal communication and has a much greater impact on rapport and trust. Learn the nonverbal signals you need to present yourself well. And if you have non-standard body language (for example, if you are on the autism spectrum or have a physical disability), you will have to find ways to avoid or correct misunderstanding.

• Life Skills
• Active Listening
• Quick Thinking
• Visualization
• Problem Sensitivity
• Emotional Intelligence

Reconciliation and Conflict Management

Simple friendliness, politeness, and respect go a long way to create rapport and improve communication. Part of conflict management is simply being kind and considerate with everyone so that they can model your behavior. Say “please,” “thank you,” and “I’m sorry” as needed. Remember to ask people how they’re doing and listen to their answer. As the workplace becomes more diverse, conflict management is a communication skill increasingly sought after.

• Collaboration
• Friendliness
• Interpersonal
• Open-Mindedness
• Social Skills
• Team Building

Communication can be in person, “snail-mail,” email, telephone, through text message, or video. Each medium has its advantages and disadvantages, and each adds something different to the message you are trying to convey. Some messages are better suited to particular media than others. For instance, most people prefer to have bad news delivered in person. But people also vary widely in how they respond to different media.

For example, people who lack confidence in their written communication prefer talking on the phone. Others prefer the slower, more thoughtful pace of email and prefer to avoid phones.

You have your own preferences, but part of communicating well is being able to identify the preferred medium of the  other  person for any given situation.

Communicating well is one of those abilities that is often overlooked, and yet those who have it are at a substantial advantage to those who are not. Fortunately, many communication skills can be learned.

• Creative Thinking
• Imagination
• Logical Thinking
• Social Media
• Information and Communications Technology
• Mobile Devices
• Brainstorming
• Versatility
• Encouragement
• Positive Reinforcement
• Negative Reinforcement
• Human Resources
• Interviewing
• Integration
• Project Management
• Paraphrasing
• Approachability
• Lie Detection

How to Make Your Skills Stand Out

Add Relevant Skills to Your Resume: As you scan the job posting, highlight the specific qualifications and skills mentioned and be sure to incorporate those keyword phrases into your resume.

Highlight Skills in Your Cover Letter: Take the time to write a quality cover letter that focuses on your most relevant skills for the job.

Use Skill Words in Your Job Interview: Are you comfortable talking with people in different settings? If you know this is not your strong point, be sure to prepare for the interview in advance.

Watch Now: 6 Soft Skills Every Employer Wants

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Customer Service Cover Letter Examples For 2024 (20+ Skills & Templates)

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Are you looking  to land more job offers in Customer Service?

A great cover letter will be key. This guide will cover everything you need for writing a job-winning Customer Service cover letter (including proven strategies, skills, templates, & examples).

All of the content in this guide is based on data from coaching thousands of job seekers (just like you!) who went on to land offers at the world's best companies.

If you want to maximize your chances of landing that Customer Service role, I recommend reading this piece from top to bottom. But if you're just looking for something specific, here's what's included in this guide:

• What To Know About Writing A Job-Winning Customer Service Cover Letter
• The Best Skills To Include On An Customer Service Cover Letter

How To Address A Customer Service Cover Letter

• 3 Customer Service Cover Letter Examples

The 8 Best Customer Service Cover Letter Templates

• 3 Tips For Writing A Job-Winning Cover Letter

Here's the step-by-step breakdown:

Customer Service Cover Letter Overview: What To Know To Write A Cover Letter That Wins More Job Offers

What do companies look for when they're hiring for a Customer Service role?

When hiring for a customer service role, companies are looking for someone with strong communication skills, who is an active listener and is able to both understand customer needs and provide clear and effective solutions. They need someone who possesses empathy and patience, as they may often be dealing with customers who are upset, angry or frustrated.

In addition to these personality traits, companies are looking for specific experience and technical skills, such as proficiency in certain software and data management tools. Overall, companies want to hire someone who is customer-focused, service-oriented, and able to work effectively in a team.

Candidates should be able to handle a high volume of calls or requests, multitask, and prioritize tasks effectively to provide the best possible customer experience.

Your cover letter should show the company that your personality and your experience encompasses all of these things.

Additionally, there are a few best practices you want to follow to write a job-winning Customer Service cover letter:

• Address the job requirements: Review the job posting and identify the key skills and requirements the employer is looking for. Incorporate these into your cover letter by giving specific examples of how you have demonstrated these skills in previous roles.
• Highlight your customer service experience: If you have previous experience in customer service, highlight this in your cover letter. Share specific examples of how you have resolved customer issues, demonstrated empathy, or provided exceptional service.
• Use a professional tone: Your cover letter should be written in a professional tone, with correct grammar and spelling. Avoid slang, jargon, or informal language.
• Customize your letter: Avoid using a generic cover letter that can be sent to multiple employers. Instead, customize your letter for each job you apply for by tailoring your language to the specific company and job requirements. Add an extra personal touch by addressing the letter to the hiring manager, if their name is available to you.
• Demonstrate your enthusiasm: Show the employer that you are excited about the opportunity to work for their company and in the customer service role. Use language that conveys your enthusiasm and interest in the position.
• Use metrics and numbers: Whenever possible, use metrics or numbers to demonstrate your achievements in previous roles. For example, if you increased customer satisfaction ratings or reduced wait times for customers, use specific numbers to illustrate this.
• Close with a call to action: End your cover letter by expressing your interest in an interview and providing your contact information. This shows your eagerness to move forward in the application process and makes it easy for the employer to get in touch with you.
• Proofread: Make sure to thoroughly proofread your cover letter for any grammatical errors or typos. A well-written, error-free letter can make a strong first impression. I recommend using Hemingway App to do this.

Let's dive deeper into each of these so you have the exact blueprint you need to see success.

The Best Customer Service Skills To Include On Your Cover Letter

Keywords are one of the most important factors in your cover letter. They show employers that your skills align with the role and they also help format your cover letter for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

If you're not familiar with ATS systems, they are pieces of software used by employers to manage job applications. They scan cover letters for keywords and qualifications and make it easier for the employers to filter and search for candidates whose qualifications match the role.

If you want to win more interviews and job offers, you need to have a keyword-optimized cover letter. There are two ways to find the right keywords:

1. Leverage The 20 Best Customer Service Keywords

The first way to find the right keywords is to leverage our list of the best keywords and skills for an Customer Service cover letter.

These keywords were selected from an analysis of  real Customer Service  job descriptions sourced from actual job boards. Here they are:

• Customer Service
• Communication
• Flexibility
• Organization
• Team Member
• Microsoft Office

2. Use ResyMatch.io To Find The Best Keywords That Are Specific To Your Cover Letter And Target Role

The second method is the one I recommend because it's personalized to your specific cover letter and target job.

• Open a copy of your target job description
• Head over to  ResyMatch.io
• Select the “Job Description Scan” from the scan type selector in the upper right corner of the tool
• Copy and paste the job description into the field on the left
• Hit scan and review the results

ResyMatch is going to scan the target job description and show you the exact keywords and skills that are relevant for the role and that you should weave into your cover letter.

Here's a video walking through this whole process:

Personalization is what makes a cover letter stand out. That starts from the very first sentence where you greet the person reading your cover letter! There are two ways to do this well:

1. Use The Hiring Manager's Name

The first, and best, is by including the hiring manager's name. Let's say that you discovered the hiring manager's name from a post on LinkedIn or via an informational interview.

This is the jackpot! All you need to do is use their name in the introduction, like this:

2. Use This Formula: To The [Department] Team at [Company]

If you don't have the hiring manager's name, no problem! You can address your cover letter to the team that you're applying to.

For example, if you're applying to for a Product Marketing Manager role at Discovery Education, you might start you cover letter like this:

This shows the reader that this letter has been written specifically for them and the content inside of it will support that.

It's much more relevant and personal than  “To Whom It May Concern!”

For more advice on writing a strong opening to your cover letter, check out this guide.

3 Customer Service Cover Letter Examples For 2023

Now let's take a look at all of these best practices in action. Here are three cover letter examples for different situations from people with different backgrounds that are all applying for Customer Service roles:

Customer Service Cover Letter Example #1: A Traditional Background

Our first example is a cover letter written by a candidate with traditional Customer Service experience. Here is what an example of their cover letter might look like:

Customer Service Cover Letter Example #2: A Non-Traditional Background

Our second cover letter example comes from a candidate looking to transition from marketing into Customer Service. This cover letter illustrates how they identify and speak to their transferable skills:

Customer Service Cover Letter Example #3: Landing A Customer Service Role In Spite Of A Career Gap and Non-Traditional Experience

Our third example highlights a candidate with Marketing and Events Management experience who, after a layoff, is looking to transition into Customer Service. Here is what their cover letter might look like:

At this point, you know all of the basics you'll need to write a Customer Service cover letter that wins you more interviews and offers. The only thing left is to take all of that information and apply it to a template that's going to help you get results.

We made that easy with  our CoverBuild tool . It has 8 proven templates that were created with the help of recruiters and hiring managers at the world's best companies. These templates also bake in thousands of data points we have from the job seekers in our audience who have used them to land job offers.

3 Tips For Writing A Job-Winning Customer ServiceCover Letter

You're off to a strong start! But I've got a few more tips to help you take your cover letter to the next level:

1. Use ChatGPT To Write Your Cover Letter In <30 Seconds

All of these tips and best practices work, but you still have to implement them. Normally, that'd mean you sitting down and spending hours brainstorming ideas, typing, deleting, and typing again, and then feeling absolutely drained.

Now there's a way to work around all of that so you save your best energy for the writing and edits that matter most. Here's how it works:

• Head to ChatGPT (you'll need to create an account – it's free)
• Ask ChatGPT,  “Please write me a cover letter for an Customer Service role. The role I'm applying for is [Job Title] role at [Company]. Here is the job description: [Paste Job Description]. And here is my resume: [Paste Resume].
• Watch ChatGPT write up a pretty darn good cover letter base!

Here's a video of me doing this with a real cover letter if you want to see the steps in action:

Note:  I  do not recommend or advise that you simply copy and paste the content from ChatGPT into your cover letter and submit your application. ChatGPT is great for doing 80% of the baseline work, but you still need to review, revise, and personalize the content yourself.

2. Include Measurable Metrics And Outcomes

Too many job seekers only focus on the actions that they took and not the outcomes that resulted from those actions. As a hiring manager, it's impossible to differentiate between a dozen candidates who were all “Responsible For Increasing Customer Satisfaction Rates.” 

If you want to win, your cover letter should speak to the specific outcomes that you drove in previous roles. That could be:

• The percentage by which customer complaints decreased
• The average reduction in wait times for your calls
• The retention rate of your clients
• The rate at which you provided first-contact resolutions to customer issues

These numbers will show hiring teams what you're capable of and make your value crystal clear!

3. Match Your Cover Letter And Resume Design

They're the exact same car, down to the year, make, and model. The only difference is the way the product was presented. Like I said, quality impacts perceived value.

One of the best ways to boost the quality of your cover letter is to make it look clean, professional, and have it match your resume. That's why the resume templates in our resume builder tool match the cover letter templates in our cover letter builder:

If you use both tools to create your cover letter and your resume, your entire application is going to be top notch.

Key Takeaways To Wrap Up Your Job-Winning Cover Letter

You made it! We packed a lot of information into this post so I wanted to distill the key points for you and lay out next steps so you know exactly where to from here.

Here are the 5 steps for writing a job-winning Customer Service cover letter:

• Start with a proven cover letter template from CoverBuild.io
• Use  ResyMatch.io to find the right keywords and optimize your cover letter for each role you apply to
• Start your cover letter with a personalized greeting for the hiring manager or team name
• Emphasize the measurable outcomes and value you drove in previous roles (include metrics!)
• Compare the draft of your cover letter to the examples on this page to make sure you're on the right path
• Use a tool like  Hemingway App to proofread your cover letter before you submit it

If you follow those steps, you're going to be well on your way to landing more Customer Service interviews and job offers.

Now that your cover letter is taking care of, be sure to check out our guide on writing a job-winning Customer Service resume (with examples!) .

Laura Lorta

Laura is an Editor at Cultivated Culture. She transitioned from teaching into the world of content so she's no stranger to career pivots. She also has a bachelors in Entrepreneurship and a Masters in Curriculum & Instruction / Bilingual Education. She currently shares job search advice to help people like you land jobs they love without applying online.

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• I haven't applied to any jobs yet and I am not sure where to start
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12 Writer Cover Letter Examples

Writers excel at weaving words into captivating stories, painting vivid pictures with their prose, and engaging readers with their narrative. Similarly, your cover letter is your chance to craft a compelling narrative about your professional journey, using your words to captivate recruiters and paint a vivid picture of your skills and experiences. In this guide, we'll explore outstanding Writer cover letter examples to help you pen your own captivating professional story.

Cover Letter Examples

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The best way to start a Writer cover letter is with a compelling hook that grabs the reader's attention. This could be a brief anecdote about a writing achievement, a unique perspective you bring to your work, or a notable publication where your work has been featured. Follow this with a clear statement of your intent, such as the specific role you're applying for. Remember to address the letter to the appropriate person, if their name is available. This personalized and engaging approach will help you stand out from other applicants.

Writers should end a cover letter by summarizing their interest in the position and expressing gratitude for the reader's time. They should reiterate their unique skills or experiences that make them a good fit for the role. It's also important to include a call to action, such as a request for an interview or a meeting. The closing should be professional and polite. Here's an example: "I am excited about the opportunity to bring my unique storytelling skills to your team and I am confident that I can contribute to your editorial goals. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing this opportunity with you further." Finally, they should sign off with a professional closing like "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by their full name.

A writer's cover letter should ideally be one page long. This is because the purpose of a cover letter is to provide a brief introduction of yourself and to explain the reasons for your interest in the specific position or organization. It's important to be concise and to the point, while effectively communicating your skills, experiences, and why you would be a good fit for the role. A one-page cover letter is usually sufficient to achieve this. If it's too long, there's a risk that the hiring manager might not read the entire letter, and if it's too short, it might not provide enough information about your qualifications.

Writing a cover letter with no experience as a writer can seem daunting, but it's important to remember that everyone starts somewhere. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to approach it: 1. Start with a strong introduction: Begin your cover letter by introducing yourself and stating the position you're applying for. Make sure to grab the reader's attention with your enthusiasm for the role and the company. 2. Highlight your relevant skills: Even if you don't have direct writing experience, you likely have other skills that are relevant. Perhaps you have strong research skills, creativity, or a knack for storytelling. Maybe you've written blog posts, social media content, or academic papers. All of these can be valuable in a writing role, so be sure to highlight them. 3. Showcase your knowledge about the company: Show that you've done your homework about the company and the industry. This can demonstrate your interest and your initiative, both of which are attractive qualities in a potential hire. 4. Discuss your education: If you've taken any writing-related courses or earned a degree in a related field (like English, journalism, or communications), be sure to mention it. Even if your education isn't directly related, discuss how it's helped you develop valuable skills. 5. Provide examples: Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills. For instance, if you're applying for a content writing role, you might discuss a time when you wrote a well-received research paper or a blog post. 6. Show your passion: Passion can often make up for a lack of experience. If you're passionate about writing, make sure that comes across in your cover letter. 7. Close with a strong conclusion: Wrap up your cover letter by reiterating your interest in the role and your eagerness to contribute to the company. Thank the reader for considering your application and express your hope for further discussion. 8. Proofread: This is especially important for a writing role. Make sure your cover letter is free of typos and grammatical errors. Remember, everyone has to start somewhere. Even if you don't have professional writing experience, your unique skills and perspectives can still make you a strong candidate. Good luck!

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30-Second Resume Rule | Transform Your Job Hunt in 2024

No matter how long it takes to perfect your resume, you only have a moment to convince the hiring manager to interview you.

And that moment is about 30 seconds long.

It sounds intimidating but it's the truth.

Even if you're the most well-qualified candidate, if your resume doesn't clearly reflect that, you don't stand a chance.

But there's no need to stress out over it!

Thirty seconds might not seem like much, but if you know the ins and outs of the 30-second resume rule, you can make that window of opportunity count.

In this article, we're going to cover:

What Is the 30-Second Resume Rule?

• 30-Second Vs. 10-Second Resume Rule
• 8 Steps to Applying the 30-Second Resume Rule

...and more!

Let's jump right in.

The 30-second resume rule is a concept you've probably never heard of before, but it's crucial for your job search .

Here's the deal: hiring managers decide if you're worth interviewing within the first 30 seconds of reading your resume.

Sounds harsh, right? But the numbers don't lie.

According to resume statistics , 1 out of 5 recruiters will reject a candidate in under 60 seconds without even finishing their resume.

And it gets worse - a further 25% of hiring managers spend less than 30 seconds reviewing an applicant's resume.

That means that you have less than a minute to convince the hiring manager that you’re the right person for the job and that they should call you in for an interview.

30-Second vs 10-Second Resume Rule

The 30-second resume rule isn’t all that different from the 10-second resume rule that we’ve also covered.

Both tell us that hiring managers don't spend a lot of time looking at each individual's resume.

So why are they in such a rush with hiring decisions?

Mainly, that’s because hiring managers are basically drowning in resumes these days. We're talking about hundreds of applicants per single job opening.

They just don't have the time to read every word of every application.

Instead, they quickly skim through each resume, and they skim fast.

If a resume catches their eye within the first few seconds of glancing at it , it’s that much closer to making it to the job interview stage.

And if they keep reading it and like what they see, the next 30 seconds determine if you make it to the interview stage or not.

Let’s break it down like this:

• 10-second resume rule. The hiring manager skims over your resume and decides if it’s worth reading at all. Crucial elements here are the resume’s length , adding an eye-catching resume headline, and using a professional resume template.
• 30-second resume rule. The hiring manager actually starts reading your resume and decides if you’re a good candidate for the job. The contents of your resume do the heavy lifting here, such as your work experience, skills, and your resume’s formatting.

8 Steps to Apply the 30-Second Resume Rule

Now that you understand what the 30-second resume rule is all about, let's dive into how you can make it work for you.

We've broken down the process into several steps to help you along the way.

Ready to make every second count? Let's go!

#1. Approach It from the Reader’s Point of View

When making your resume , it's easy to get caught up in your own perspective.

But if you want to apply the 30-second rule, you need to step into the hiring manager's shoes.

Think about it. You’re sifting through piles of resumes, looking for someone just right for the job. What do you want to see?

Here are three things you’d likely consider:

• Resume format. Hiring managers want to find what they're looking for easily and this is where your resume’s format comes in. Stick to a reverse-chronological resume format since it’s the most popular format worldwide and it’s what hiring managers tend to expect.
• Work experience. This is often the first thing hiring managers read in depth. List your job roles in reverse chronological order and focus on achievements instead of responsibilities whenever possible.
• Relevant skills. Your skills show the hiring manager what you can do and how much training you might need, so, naturally, they read this section very carefully.

#2. Start Strong

You want your resume to give the hiring manager the most important information right away.

Like with the 10-second resume rule, start by writing a great resume summary or resume objective .

This is a brief paragraph that tells the hiring manager who you are, what you’re good at, and why you’re great for the role.

A resume summary is perfect if you've got some work experience already - it's a brief overview of your professional journey and top achievements. For example:

"Marketing professional with 5+ years of experience driving client ROI, specializing in digital campaigns and brand strategy."

A resume objective, on the other hand, is better for recent graduates or candidates looking for a career change . It should state your career goals and what you bring to the table. Like this:

"Recent marketing graduate seeking to leverage strong analytical and creative skills to drive growth for the innovative team at XYZ Startup."

Next, it’s time to dive into the most crucial sections of your resume.

For most, that's work experience .

List your roles in reverse chronological order and make sure to emphasize your achievements over daily tasks. Hiring managers already know what your responsibilities are, so they’d rather read about how you can bring results as part of their team.

Keep in mind that if you're in a skills-based field like tech, you should consider putting your skills section first, then follow it with your work experience.

#3. Customize It

Your resume should perfectly match the job you’re applying for.

Instead of sending out the same generic document for every job opening out there, you should create a tailored resume for each application.

Start by carefully reading the job description. Look for any keywords and specific qualifications the employer is looking for in a candidate. Then, adjust your resume to highlight the qualities you have that match their requirements.

Make sure to tailor every section of your resume this way. For example, in your skills section, you should focus on the skills that matter most for the job, not all your skills.

#4. Be Specific

When it comes to applying the 30-second resume rule, vague statements won't cut it.

Hiring managers want concrete details that show exactly what you can do. This is why listing your impressive achievements does a lot more than mentioning your responsibilities.

But don’t just say how you "improved sales” – give specific numbers.

Did you increase sales by 20% or by 0.1%? Did you bring in five or 55 new clients in a quarter? These numbers paint a completely different picture.

So, quantify your accomplishments whenever possible. If you managed a team, how many people were on it? If you worked on projects, what was their value? If you saved the company money, how much?

For example, instead of "Managed social media accounts," try "Grew Instagram following from 5,000 to 50,000 in 6 months, increasing engagement by 300%."

Being specific doesn't just apply to numbers either.

Make sure you use precise job titles, software names, and industry-specific terminology. This shows you know your field and helps your resume pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS).

#5. List Transferable Skills

The 30-second resume rule is less about piquing the hiring manager’s curiosity and more about showing them that you've got what it takes to excel in the role.

One way you can do this is by showing off your transferable skills .

These are skills you can use across various jobs and industries. They're especially important if you're changing careers or you’re a graduate with no work experience .

Most of the time, your transferable skills are likely to be soft skills instead of hard skills. These include:

• Communication
• Problem-solving
• Adaptability
• Time management

Make sure to list the ones that apply to you in your resume. But don't write long descriptions about how you have “ effective communication skills that lead to tangible outcomes” - just keep it short and simple. Listing the name of the skill is more than enough for the hiring manager.

#6. Include Only the Relevant Content

Every word counts if you want the hiring manager to choose you in under a minute.

This means your resume isn't supposed to be your full life story - it's a targeted document showcasing why you're perfect for this specific job.

So, focus on including information that directly relates to the position you're applying for. This includes carefully selecting which experiences, skills, and achievements to highlight.

When it comes to your work experience, stick to what's relevant. Highlight your most recent and related experiences, typically from the last 10-15 years at most. For each role, emphasize the achievements and responsibilities that align best with the job you're targeting.

If you have an extensive work history, you can probably omit older or irrelevant positions, so long as they aren’t directly related to the role you're applying for. No one’s going to mind that you skipped over your part-time job as a teenager .

The same goes for other resume sections , such as your skills, education, and personal projects.

Only include degrees, certifications, and skills that are relevant to the job. If you have multiple degrees, focus on the most relevant one and skip generic information like where you went to high school .

#7. Answer Their Possible Questions

Your resume should be more than a list of experiences and skills.

Consider it a strategic way to present yourself so that you anticipate and address the hiring manager's concerns immediately.

What might make them hesitate about your application? Are there potential red flags you can proactively explain? Your goal is to clear up any doubts before they become obstacles.

For example, if the job requires a specific degree, make sure it's listed in your education section . If you took any classes that are relevant to the industry or job, make sure to mention them.

Also, never leave employment gaps unexplained. If you took time off, whether to further your education or to care for a family member, briefly address it. This prevents the hiring manager from filling in the blanks with possible worst-case scenarios.

If you're changing careers, explain why and how you’re a good fit. To make your case, highlight any transferable skills, relevant training, or volunteer work you've done.

By taking the time to proactively answer the questions hiring managers are most likely to have, you’re making it easy for them to see you as a strong candidate and invite you for an interview.

In those crucial 30 seconds, hiring managers are likely to toss your resume aside if it’s a messy, cluttered document. That’s no matter how impressive your qualifications are.

So, here are some tips to prevent that:

• Use white space. Don't try to cram everything onto one page if it means sacrificing readability.
• Set the page margins. Use margins of 1.0 inch on all sides to make sure your document is neat.
• Opt for bullet points over paragraphs. This goes double for your work experience section. Bullet points are easier to skim over and help break up dense text.
• Choose a professional font. Stick to something stylish but professional like Lora, Roboto, or Ubuntu. Your font size should be between 10 and 12 points for body text, with headers going from 14 to 16 pt.
• Use consistent formatting throughout. If you bold the job titles, do it for all of them. Keep your line spacing consistent too - between 1 and 1.15 is usually ideal.
• Add clear section headers. Use bold or slightly larger font to make section headers stand out and organize the sections in your resume. If you choose a resume template from an online resume builder, you can do this automatically and save time.
• Maximize space. A multi-column resume layout might be the best choice if you want to maximize space, but don't overdo it - two columns are usually enough.
• Proofread carefully. Some of the biggest no-gos for hiring managers are typos and grammatical errors, so make sure you run your resume through a grammar-checking tool and read it carefully before sending it.

Key Takeaways

Hurray! You’ve made it to the end of our article!

Now you know how to make your resume shine in just under 30 seconds.

Before you go, let’s recap the main points we covered:

• Start strong and customize your content according to the job application. Tailor your entire resume to match what the employer is looking for.
• Be specific and focus on relevant information. Quantify your achievements whenever possible and include only the most relevant skills and experiences you have.
• Highlight any transferable skills and answer potential questions the hiring manager might have about you, such as about your abilities to perform the job, your education, or any employment gaps on your resume.
• Make sure your resume is easy to read. Use clear formatting, appropriate fonts, and enough white space. Stick to bullet points over paragraphs to make information easy to skim and keep your resume concise.

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