define targeted cover letter

How to Write a Targeted Cover Letter

Introduction: How to Write a Targeted Cover Letter

When applying for a job, your cover letter is your first chance to make a strong impression on the hiring manager. It is an opportunity to showcase your skills, experience, and enthusiasm for the position you are applying for. One effective approach to writing a cover letter is to make it targeted, tailoring it specifically to the job you are applying to. In this blog, we will discuss the importance of a targeted cover letter and provide tips on how to create one that captures the attention of recruiters.

10 FAQs about How to Write a Targeted Cover Letter

1. What is a targeted cover letter? A targeted cover letter is a customized document that highlights your qualifications and demonstrates your understanding of the requirements of the job you are applying for. It is specifically crafted to match the needs and expectations of a particular employer.

2. Why is it important to write a targeted cover letter? A targeted cover letter shows the employer that you have taken the time to research and understand their company and the specific role you are applying for. It increases your chances of standing out among other candidates by demonstrating your genuine interest and commitment.

3. How can I research the employer and job role effectively? To research the employer and job role, thoroughly review the company’s website, seek out news articles or press releases about the company, and learn about their core values and culture. Analyze the job description and identify the skills, qualifications, and experiences mentioned.

4. Should I address the letter to a specific person? Whenever possible, address your cover letter to a specific person such as the hiring manager or recruiter. If the job posting does not provide a name, a bit of additional research or a phone call to the company’s HR department can help you find the appropriate person to address.

5. How should I start my targeted cover letter? Begin your targeted cover letter with a strong and engaging opening paragraph. Mention the specific position you are applying for and explain why you are interested in it. Briefly summarize your relevant skills and experiences to grab the reader’s attention.

6. How should I structure the body of my targeted cover letter? The body of your targeted cover letter should consist of 2-3 paragraphs. In these paragraphs, highlight your most relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that align with the job requirements. Provide specific examples of how you have successfully used these skills in your previous roles or projects.

7. Can I use the same cover letter for multiple job applications? While it might be tempting to reuse a cover letter, it is advisable to tailor it to each specific job application. Customizing your cover letter for each position allows you to highlight the most relevant skills and experiences that match the job requirements.

8. How can I showcase my knowledge of the company in my cover letter? To showcase your knowledge of the company, mention specific projects, products, or achievements that caught your attention during your research. Demonstrate how your skills and background align with the company’s goals and values.

9. Should I include a call-to-action in my cover letter? Yes, it is a good idea to include a call-to-action in your cover letter. Express your enthusiasm for the opportunity to interview and discuss how your qualifications would contribute to the company’s success. Mention that you are looking forward to hearing back from them and provide your contact information.

10. Should I proofread my cover letter? Proofreading your cover letter is crucial. Double-check for any grammatical errors, typos, or formatting issues. Consider asking a trusted friend or family member to read it as well to provide feedback on clarity and tone.

Conclusion: How to Write a Targeted Cover Letter

Writing a targeted cover letter requires effort and attention to detail, but it can significantly increase your chances of landing an interview. By customizing your cover letter to align with the specific job requirements and showcasing your knowledge of the company, you can demonstrate that you are the ideal candidate for the position. Remember to research the employer, structure your cover letter effectively, and proofread carefully. A well-written targeted cover letter can make a lasting impression and set you on the path to success in your job search .

Introducing John Smith: Your Expert Resume Writer, Cover Letter Specialist, and Career Coach. Meet John Smith, your dedicated partner in crafting the perfect resume, compelling cover letter, and charting your career path to success. With a passion for helping individuals reach their professional aspirations, John brings a wealth of expertise to the table as a resume writer, cover letter specialist, and career coach.

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Write Your Targeted Cover Letter

Learn how to write a letter that makes you stand out

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Send a Cover Letter

Select a cover letter format, personalize your letter, go beyond the resume, find a match, include keywords.

Employers often have to look through hundreds of job applications to fill a position. To stand out, you will need to write a targeted cover letter for every job application you submit.

Without a strong cover letter targeted to the specific position, your application will not get a second look. Today, you will learn tips for writing a targeted cover letter and will apply those tips to your job applications.

Always send a cover letter, even if an employer does not specifically ask for one. A targeted cover letter can make the difference between getting an interview and getting overlooked.

Select a straightforward cover letter format. In terms of content, most cover letters should include your contact information, and at least three body paragraphs:

The first paragraph should explain what job you are applying for and how you found the job listing. The second paragraph should explain the skills/experiences you have to offer that relate directly to the job listing. The final paragraph should reiterate your interest in the job and explain how you will follow up.

In terms of presentation, you should use a simple, 12-point font that is easy to read (such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Verdana). Also, leave a space between each paragraph so the page doesn’t look too cluttered. Keep your cover letter to no longer than one page.

Address the cover letter to the hiring manager. If there is no contact listed on the job application, do your best to find the name of the individual to whom the application will go. Look at the company website or call the company to ask for the name of the hiring manager.

Taking the time to find the name of the individual hiring manager will demonstrate that you are taking a special interest in the position. If you can't locate a contact person, there are other options for addressing your cover letter.

Make sure your cover letter does not simply rehash your resume. Your cover letter should expand upon your resume, focusing on your specific skills and experiences that relate to the job.

Go through the job listing, and write down the job requirements. Then, make a list of your skills and experiences that match the requirements. Select two or three of your skills that best fit the job. In the body of your cover letter, explain how each of those skills or experiences qualifies you for the specific job listing.

Include keywords from the job listing in the cover letter. Select words from the listing that relate to particular skills or other requirements for the job. By embedding them into your cover letter, you will demonstrate, at a glance, that you fit the requirements of the position.

Always thoroughly edit your cover letters for grammatical and spelling errors, and for general clarity. Every letter you send should be clearly written and polished.

Here are a variety of sample cover letters you can use as templates for your own cover letters.

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Write a Targeted Cover Letter for Every Job

Here's a sample cover letter using those highlighted keywords and phrases to target this employer's specific needs:

The Targeted Cover Letter

By using the same terminology and explicitly pointing out the parallels between your qualifications and the employer's business needs, the reader can easily see the similarities. This leads them into your well-written resume , where your skills and accomplishments convince them you're a candidate worth further consideration. RELATED LINKS Write a Real Cover Letter, Not Just a Resume Rehash Straight Talk about Writing Cover Letters How to Email Your Cover Letter the Right Way 5 Ways to Screw Up Your Cover Letter Greeting

How to write a targeted cover letter

Julie walraven.

A targeted cover letter is the only kind of cover letter you should be writing. Anything less is a waste of your time and the hiring manager’s time.

What is a targeted cover letter?

A targeted cover letter focused on a particular position with a specific company will get the hiring manager’s attention. Often job seekers think the value of a cover letter is just having one. If they write a generic one that should do the job, right? No, it won’t!

5 key ingredients in a targeted cover letter

1. know where you are going..

• Don’t use the same cover letter for every job. If you are applying for a project manager job, you need to emphasize your project management skills.

2. Echo the job description.

Many people use that same old untargeted cover letter for everything, and hiring managers know that. Surprise them by infusing your opening paragraph with an echo of what they want: This Charter School Teacher should have experience with student-lead, project-based instruction, and certifications in Technical Education, Science, or Math.

3. Sell and cross-sell your value.

If your goal is to combine different aspects of your skills, clarify that value. A client who recently landed wanted to combine IT background with apparel industry background: “I have a unique perspective as someone with substantial IT project management experience combined with nearly five years as an entrepreneurial business owner and development manager in the retail sector.”

Create interest with your Targeted Cover Letter

A targeted cover letter can use many strategies. Don’t be afraid to use something different and you don’t have to reinvent the wheel. Repurposing resume content is OK as long as it flows with the letter. A recent client targeting executive marketing and communication roles used this strategy:

Challenge – Increase visibility

• Led Super Bowl Commercial social media marketing for ABC company, with 22 agents, two continents, 13,000 tweets, and FB posts.

Ask for the job.

Never forget to tell them you want to talk. For some opportunities, you might plan a call back date and tell them that you will call back next Tuesday. For others, at least tell them you want the interview:

I welcome the opportunity to talk further about my background and how my passion, enthusiasm, and skills can benefit XYZ Corporation. Please contact me to schedule an appointment for the next step in your interview process.

Not taking the effort to write a targeted cover letter may cost you the job.

Customizing your resume and cover letter submissions is key to a successful job search. Pushing out applications willy-nilly in volume will make your job search last longer.

Land your next role! I can help you win new positions by using my interactive coaching style of resume writing to create your new resume and help you use multiple tools such as LinkedIn to propel you to success in your job search! Learn more here

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Your Guide to Writing a Targeted Cover Letter

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Many employers pay close attention to cover letters, especially when the competition heats up. Cover letters provide applicants the chance to tell a personalized story about why they should be considered for a job, and employers take notice when they demonstrate a targeted and enthusiastic understanding of the open opportunity. If you are engaged in a job search, the guidelines below may help as you craft a cover letter for your job applications.

Cover Letter Pre-Work

Cover letters should always be tailored to each job opportunity. Before you start writing, take 20 to 30 minutes to conduct an employer analysis. Review the job description, the employer's website and the LinkedIn profiles of company employees. Highlight keywords, phrases and aspects of the company's mission that align with your experience and interests.

Use your research to answer these questions:

• What is the employer's mission and how can I show my commitment to the mission?
• What is the problem that the open position will solve, and what accomplishment(s) on my resume can I use to demonstrate my ability to solve that problem?
• What keywords, phrases, skills and abilities should I incorporate into my cover letter?

Cover Letter Writing Tips for Each Section

An ideal salutation would include the name of the hiring manager. Doing so increases the chance that the letter will catch the reader's eye. If you are unsure who the hiring manager is, you could research the department leads at the company using their website or LinkedIn. "Greetings" or "Dear Hiring Manager" are acceptable alternatives if you are unable to identify a specific person to name in the salutation.

Opening Paragraph

The opening paragraph should show how the employer's mission aligns with your interests, and should serve as a thesis statement for why you are a good fit for the job. The information shared here should not feel formulaic. If you change just one part of your cover letter every time, it needs to be this part.

Middle Paragraph(s)

In the middle paragraphs, you should tell a story about one or two accomplishments noted on your resume that are highly relevant for the immediate job opportunity. This story should highlight results and demonstrate the kind of impact you could deliver if you were hired. Connect these accomplishments directly to the employer's needs so the hiring team members can see the value you would bring to their workplace.

Closing Paragraph

Use the closing paragraph to summarize the main points of the opening and middle paragraphs and entice the reader to reach out to you. If needed, you can also quickly address any gaps in your work history or concerns that might be on the employer's mind. Thank the employer for their time and consideration, and express your hope to speak with them more about the opportunity.

Cover Letter Sample

Once you understand the basics of the cover letter, put all of the elements together. Consider the following sample as you begin to create yours.

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Targeted Cover Letter

Upload your resume for a complimentary review from an award-winning recruiter and resume writer, featured in:.

How do you ‘target” your resume and cover letter?

First, you want to look at the job posting and determine what the recruiter is looking for? Are you an IT Project Manager ? Or are you a Software Engineer ? Both of these resumes will have very different accomplishments presented as well as keywords. In addition, each IT Project Manager position could have different keywords programmed into the ATS System.

The HR professional adds the keywords into the ATS that they feel are relevant for each position. These keywords can be quite subjective, so it is important to review each posting for the appropriate keywords. One job posting may state that “Strong ability to motivate” is important while another could say “Working independently” is what they are looking for.

See also Accounting Cover Letter Samples +How-to Guide

Top tips to help target your resume and cover letter.

To boost your chances of landing an interview (and make the Recruiter’s life much simpler), follow these four easy steps for targeting your resume and cover letter:

• Read the job description carefully. You are looking for keywords as well as requirements.
• Figure out what the employer needs. What are the duties and responsibilities of the position?
• Identify what you can do for their business, how you can meet (or even exceed) these needs. What are your accomplishments that match these needs?
• Emphasize this information in your resume and cover letter by using metrics and visual elements to make your achievements stand out, and clearly demonstrate that you are a great candidate for the position.

Yes, tailoring your job search documents to every single posting that catches your eye might be a tedious task, but it pays off handsomely. At iCareerSolutions, we provide targeted, ATS-compatible resumes as well as showing our clients how to target these documents for each position. If you need assistance with your resume and cover letter, please book a complimentary resume review or check out some of our award-winning resumes .

• Unlock Success with Applicant Tracking System (ATS) Friendly Resume!

Let us help you land your next position by crafting the best ATS optimized resume or by managing your entire job search. Here’s more information about our Resume Writing Services and  Reverse Recruitment Service . Book a call today to speak directly with our CEO and Founder, Arno Markus!

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Arno Markus is a 20X Award-winning Certified Professional Resume Writer and founder of iCareerSolutions. Arno has worked with Fortune 500 Executives, North American Professionals, and Strategic-Thinking Leaders across all industries to assist them in landing Top Positions at Billion-Dollar Companies, Start-Ups, and everything in between.

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Professional Target Cover Letter Examples for 2024

Your target cover letter needs to capture attention instantly. Highlight the key experiences that match the job criteria. Connect your skills to the employer's needs in a concise way. Use precise language and relevant examples to stand out.

Cover Letter Guide

Target Cover Letter Sample

Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter Salutation

Cover Letter Introduction

Cover Letter Body

Cover Letter Closing

No Experience Target Cover Letter

Key Takeaways

As you dive into the job application process, you realize a persuasive target cover letter can be the key to landing your dream role. Struggling to condense your professional life into one page without echoing your resume? Your cover letter is your chance to share a compelling story about your proudest achievement, not a list of clichés. Keep it concise and engaging, and watch employers take notice. Let's unlock the secrets to crafting a cover letter that truly stands out.

• Making excellent use of job-winning real-life professional cover letters;
• Writing the first paragraphs of your target cover letter to get attention and connect with the recruiters - immediately;
• Single out your most noteworthy achievement (even if it's outside your career);
• Get a better understanding of what you must include in your target cover letter to land the job.

Let the power of Enhancv's AI work for you: create your target cover letter by uploading your resume.

If the target isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:

• Target resume guide and example
• Pharmaceutical Sales Rep cover letter example
• Sales Manager cover letter example
• Sales Consultant cover letter example
• Sales And Marketing Manager cover letter example
• Executive Sales cover letter example
• Overnight Stocker cover letter example
• Sales Administrator cover letter example
• Furniture Sales cover letter example
• Sales Development Representative cover letter example
• Hotel Sales Manager cover letter example

Target cover letter example

Payton Webster

+1-(234)-555-1234

[email protected]

• Aligning with Company Ethos: The cover letter effectively ties the candidate's professional goals with the company's customer-centric values. This demonstrates the applicant's understanding of Target's brand and a clear desire to contribute positively to it.
• Demonstrating Relevant Experience: Citing a specific achievement where the candidate increased productivity by 30% and exceeded sales targets provides concrete evidence of their capacity to deliver results and manage a team effectively, which directly relates to the role in question.
• Call to Action: The cover letter includes a call to action, inviting the hiring manager to schedule a meeting. This proactiveness shows the candidate's eagerness to engage further and discuss how their skills can benefit Target specifically.

What are the basics of the design or format of your target cover letter?

To start, here's a reminder for you: the Applicant Tracker System (or software that is used to assess candidate profiles), won't be reading your target cover letter.

Recruiters enjoy reading target cover letters with a standardized format that uses:

• the same font as the resume (e.g. modern ones like Raleway or Volkhov are prefered over the clichéd Times New Roman or Arial);
• single spacing to keep the content concise and organized (this is all ready for you in our cover letter templates );
• a one-inch margin to wrap around the text, like in our cover letter builder ;
• PDF as a file format, as it allows your design (and visual element) to stay the same.

Finally, we can't go on without mentioning the key sections of your target cover letter.

In the top one-third, make sure to include a header (with your contact information, name, role, and date), a salutation, and an introduction.

Next, follows the heart and soul of your target cover letter or its body.

End your target cover letter with a closing paragraph and, if you wish, a signature.

The top sections on a target cover letter

• Header: Includes your contact information, the date, and the employer's contact information, which is important for setting a professional tone and ensuring the recruiter knows who you are and how to get back to you.
• Opening Greeting: Addresses the hiring manager by name whenever possible, showing that you've done your research and are personally engaged in the application process.
• Introduction: Clearly states the position you are applying for and gives a brief overview of your relevant experience and skills, grabbing the recruiter's attention and showing immediate relevancy.
• Body Paragraph(s): Showcases your specific experiences, accomplishments, and skills that align with the key responsibilities of the role, making it clear why you're a good match for this specific job.
• Closing Section: Includes a call to action, such as requesting an interview, and reiterates your enthusiasm for the role, leaving the recruiter with a strong, memorable conclusion to your cover letter.

Key qualities recruiters search for in a candidate’s cover letter

Since you haven't specified a job title, I'll choose a common position for the example: Software Engineer. Here are six key qualities, experiences, and traits specific to that role:

• Proficiency in relevant programming languages (e.g., Java, Python, C#) - Essential for writing, testing, and maintaining code.
• Experience with software development methodologies (e.g., Agile, Scrum) - Allows effective collaboration in team settings and agile response to project changes.
• Strong problem-solving skills - Critical for debugging and implementing efficient solutions.
• Knowledge of database management and SQL - Necessary for managing and manipulating data within software applications.
• Experience with version control systems (e.g., Git) - Important for tracking changes, collaborating with others, and deploying code.
• Understanding of software security practices - Ensures the development of secure applications and protection of sensitive data.

Personalizing your target cover letter salutation

Always aim to address the recruiter from the get-go of your target cover letter.

• the friendly tone (e.g. "Dear Paul" or "Dear Caroline") - if you've previously chatted up with them on social media and are on a first-name basis;
• the formal tone (e.g. "Dear Ms. Gibbs" or "Dear Ms. Swift") - if you haven't had any previous conversation with them and have discovered the name of the recruiter on LinkedIn or the company website;
• the polite tone (e.g. "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear HR Team") - at all costs aim to avoid the "To whom it may concern" or "Dear Sir/Madam", as both greetings are very old-school and vague.

List of salutations you can use

• Dear Hiring Manager,
• Dear [Specific Role Title] Hiring Team,
• Dear [Department] Team,
• Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name],
• Dear Dr. [Last Name],
• Dear [First Name] [Last Name],

Your target cover letter intro: showing your interest in the role

On to the actual content of your target cover letter and the introductory paragraph .

The intro should be no more than two sentences long and presents you in the best light possible.

Use your target cover letter introduction to prove exactly what interests you in the role or organization. Is it the:

• Company culture;
• Growth opportunities;
• Projects and awards the team worked on/won in the past year;
• Specific technologies the department uses.

When writing your target cover letter intro, be precise and sound enthusiastic about the role.

Your introduction should hint to recruiters that you're excited about the opportunity and that you possess an array of soft skills, e.g. motivation, determination, work ethic, etc.

That one achievement in your target cover letter body

The lengthiest part of your target cover letter is the body.

Within the next three to six middle paragraphs, present yourself as the best candidate for the role .

How can you do that without retelling your whole professional resume?

Select one key achievement that covers job-crucial skills and technologies (and is memorable).

Within the body of your target cover letter, aim to tell the story of how you achieved your success. Also, write about how this would help out your potential team.

Ending your target cover letter: a closing paragraph with a promise

If you're thinking of finishing your target cover letter with a "Sincerely yours" or "Thanks for the consideration," you need to read on.

End the final paragraph of your target cover letter with a twist:

• a promise - of how you'd grow as a professional, part of the company, or improve organizational metrics;
• a call to action - prompt interviewers with some follow-up actions if they are interested in your profile.

A personalized ending would surely help you to stand out by being a memorable candidate.

What to write on your target cover letter, when you have zero experience

The best advice for candidates, writing their target cover letters with no experience , is this - be honest.

If you have no past professional roles in your portfolio, focus recruiters' attention on your strengths - like your unique, transferrable skill set (gained as a result of your whole life), backed up by one key achievement.

Or, maybe you dream big and have huge motivation to join the company. Use your target cover letter to describe your career ambition - that one that keeps you up at night, dreaming about your future.

Finally, always ensure you've answered why employers should hire precisely you and how your skills would benefit their organization.

Key takeaways

Winning at your job application game starts with a clear and concise target cover letter that:

• Has single-spaced paragraphs, is wrapped in a one-inch margin, and uses the same font as the target resume;
• Is personalized to the recruiter (using their name in the greeting) and the role (focusing on your one key achievement that answers job requirements);
• Includes an introduction that helps you stand out and show what value you'd bring to the company;
• Substitutes your lack of experience with an outside-of-work success, that has taught you valuable skills;
• Ends with a call for follow-up or hints at how you'd improve the organization, team, or role.

Cover letter examples by industry

AI cover letter writer, powered by ChatGPT

Enhancv harnesses the capabilities of ChatGPT to provide a streamlined interface designed specifically focused on composing a compelling cover letter without the hassle of thinking about formatting and wording.

• Content tailored to the job posting you're applying for
• ChatGPT model specifically trained by Enhancv
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How to Write a Targeted Resume (With Examples)

Writing a Targeted Resume

Options for targeting your resume.

• Matching a Resume With a Job

Review a Targeted Resume Example

More targeted resume examples, writing targeted cover letters.

What are targeted resumes, and why should job seekers use them? A targeted resume focuses on a specific job opening. It's written to highlight the skills and experiences relevant to a particular position. When sending targeted resumes, the resume will be edited or rewritten for each job to which the candidate applies.

Taking the time to write a targeted resume enables you to show the employer why you're an excellent fit for the job. Your resume will, at a glance, show the reader that you're a well-qualified candidate for the position.

Also, a targeted cover letter is typically written to accompany the resume when applying for jobs. You can use both documents to showcase your qualifications for the job.

Here are tips for writing a targeted resume, with an example of a resume that matches the position description in the employer's job posting.

Adapting your resume for each position you apply for takes some time and effort, but it helps to make it very clear to hiring managers and whoever else sees your resume that you're a good match for the position.

Also, the applicant tracking systems that employers use to screen applicants check for keywords and phrases that show a candidate has the right credentials for the job. The closer a match, the better your chances of getting selected for an interview.

Customizing your resume allows you to showcase the qualifications, accomplishments, and particular aspects of your work history that match closely with the requirements listed in the job description.

Be aware that the more you tweak and adjust a resume, the higher your risk of introducing an error or typo; always proofread carefully before sending your resume to an employer.

Since any revisions take time, be certain that the job is indeed a good match , and that the company is likely to be receptive to your application, before spending time personalizing your resume for a particular position.

Edit the Summary or Profile

You don't necessarily need to rewrite your entire resume to make it targeted for a particular position. Sometimes, a few small updates in key sections of your resume can have a powerful impact on defining your strengths.

• Review the job description. The first step is to review the job description carefully so that you can be sure the position is a good match for you, and know which qualities and skills to emphasize on your resume.
• Add a section to your resume. The easiest way to target your resume (without rewriting the whole resume) is to include a Resume Summary of Qualifications , a Profile , or a Career Highlights section at the top of your resume.
• Make a match. Review the job description and then review your resume. Take the experience, credentials, and education that best match the job posting and include them in the Summary of Qualifications section at the top of your resume.
• Tweak the experience section.  List your experience in reverse chronological order, just like you would on a traditional resume. Be sure to edit your responsibilities, so they also match the job description.

One way to make your skills stand out is to add a bulleted list of your most relevant qualifications for the job to your summary statement. For example:

• Creating process improvements        
• Writing maintainable cross-browser code
• Ensuring code is scalable and responsive
• Estimating time and costs for projects

Write a Custom Resume

Another option for customizing your resume is to edit your resume, so your skills and experience are as close a match as possible to the job description or job ad requirements. Take the keywords used in the job posting and work them into your resume.

For each section of your targeted resume, you should include:

• Headline: The job for which you're applying.
• Summary or Profile: The skills and experience are required or preferred.
• Experience: The responsibilities or duties the employer needs you to perform.
• Education: The type of education or training the employer is looking for.

If you have a comprehensive resume that you update regularly, it will be easier to edit or rewrite it for each job you're applying for.

Example of Matching a Resume With a Job Posting

• Sample Help Wanted Ad with Targeted Resume: The following is an example of a job posting, along with a sample resume written specifically to apply for that position. You can see how the resume writer made sure that her highlighted skills are exactly what the employer is seeking.
• Sample Help Wanted Ad for Human Resources Manager: Recruit all exempt and non-exempt employees. Orient new employees to the organization. Design and implement staff training and development programs. Manage employee retention initiatives. Administer all compensation, benefit, and state-mandated programs, including the processing of enrollments, terminations, unemployment, and workers' compensation claims. Responsible for compliance with state and federal labor laws. Serve as COBRA administrator for the company. Member of union contract negotiating and management team.
• Targeted Resume Sample: The following is a sample resume targeted to the above job posting. As you can see, the Summary of Qualifications closely correlates with the job posting.

Resume Summary of Qualifications

• Experienced manager with expertise in human relations and project management
• Extensive background in staff recruitment and retention
• Staff training and development
• Superb written and oral communication skills
• Organizational and strategic planning
• Management coaching
• Program marketing
• Contract negotiation and compliance
• Knowledge of federal and state employment law

Targeted Resume Sample

Janine Carbone 1895 Sunbrier Circle Backstone, CA 01234 111-123-4567 j.carboneemail@email.com

SUMMARY OF PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR Riverbend Inc., 2018 - Present

• Senior Management of a Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) accredited treatment facility. Responsible for all aspects of program management: clinical, administrative, and fiscal.
• Responsible for recruiting, orienting, training, and supervising 50 staff, was able to reduce staff turnover from 68% to 14% by improving staff orientation and training, professional development, and mid-level management coaching.
• Oversight of all aspects of staff performance; performance evaluation, progressive discipline, mediation of staff disputes, and grievance procedures in accordance with state and federal laws.
• Leadership in the setting and achieving of strategic and organizational goals.
• Established training programs for staff in regard to all aspects of workplace performance and professional development.
• Program marketing, increased annual revenue by 38%.

HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER R. Dykeman Center, 2014 - 2018

• Administrative, clinical, fiscal, and human resources management of a large outpatient mental health center; 60 full-time employees and 45 contract employees housed in various locations.
• Responsible for the recruitment, supervision, and performance evaluation of clinical, administrative, and medical staff.
• Provided training to enhance workplace performance at all levels of staffing.
• Nominated as Training Coordinator for the West Seattle Mental Health Consortium, providing training as the trainer or contracting with relevant professionals to provide training in the areas of culturally relevant services, professional ethics and law, and areas of professional development as requested by staff members.
• Concurrently completed a two-year certificate program in Organizational Development and Leadership as the recipient of a merit scholarship by the Microsoft Corporation.
• Independent consultant to several small businesses, law firms, non-profit agencies, and school districts on staff grievance procedures, team building, and the setting and achieving of organizational goals.

PROGRAM DIRECTOR Family Reconciliation Services, 2011 - 2014

• Provided program management of the largest FRS contract in Washington State.
• FRS was responsible for providing in-home crises counseling to families on a 24/7 basis.
• Responsible for the recruitment, orientation, supervision, and performance evaluation of up to 45 Master's level clinicians.
• During this 10-year period, increased the ethnic diversity of staff from 0% to 36% and provided more culturally relevant services to the community served.
• Served as organizational and clinical consultant to a variety of organizations, including Bellevue School District, Eastside Mental Health, Renton Area Youth & Family Services, as well as several businesses and law firms.
• Completed the training required to become an American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (AAMFT) Approved Supervisor.

CLINICAL DIRECTOR - Chemical Dependency Treatment Programs Rogue Valley Medical Center, 2004 - 2011

• Hired by the medical center to design and implement a residential treatment program.
• Responsible for the recruitment and hiring of all staff: medical, administrative, and clinical.
• Responsible for public relations and program marketing.
• Developed compensation structure, performance management, employee training, and evaluation structures.
• Developed an ongoing training program for nursing and clinical staff and served as a liaison between the hospital and the community, providing training to community partners, schools, the police department, and relevant medical and mental health professionals.
• Designed and created a family education and support structure for the community.
• Senior Professional Human Resources (SPHR) certification
• The Whidbey Institute, Organizational Development and Leadership
• University of Heidelberg, Germany, Psy.D in Clinical Psychology
• University of California at Berkeley, BA in Philosophy and German

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS

• Society of Human Resources Management
• Portland Human Resources Management Association
•   Resume with a headline :  A resume headline that summarizes why you are an ideal candidate. You can use a headline to highlight the best attributes and experience that qualify you for the job.
• Resume with a headline and a profile :  Including both a headline and a profile will give the hiring manager even more information about why you’re a match for the position.
• Resume with a summary statement : A summary statement is a brief paragraph or two along with a short list of your strongest qualifications for the job. You can include information from the job posting in your summary.
• Resume with a branding statement : A branding statement showcases what you have to offer to a hiring organization. As with the other types of resumes, you can use it to highlight your qualifications for the position.

In addition to targeting your resume, you will need to target your cover letter similarly . Again, take the skills that match the job criteria and highlight them. You will need to show the hiring manager that you're a qualified candidate. You will only have a few seconds to convince them that you should be considered for an interview.

CareerOneStop. " Target Your Resume ." Accessed Sept. 7, 2021.

CareerOneStop. " Headline and Summary Sample ." Accessed Sept. 7, 2021.

SHRM. " How to Write Powerful and Memorable HR Resumes ." Accessed Sept. 7, 2021.

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How To Write A Targeted Resume [+ Examples]

For best results, a targeted resume should be used for each job you apply for. Learn how to easily write a targeted resume with examples.

What is the best definition of a targeted resume?

Simply put, a targeted resume is the perfect resume for a particular job.

The perfect resume for any job is a resume precisely tailored and targeted to that job.

What does that mean for you?

It means your resume should showcase the necessary skills, experience, and accomplishments for the job you are applying for.

It also means that you have to edit your resume for every new job application.

Having to edit and customize your resume every time you apply for a new job can be overwhelming and frustrating.

That’s because you don’t know the easy, fast, and effective way to write a targeted resume yet.

Keep reading for more details…

Why Do You Need a Targeted Resume?

Having a single generic resume and using it out for all the jobs you apply to is not a good plan.

If you did manage to get a job through this approach, you were lucky. Somehow your generic resume got matched with the job you have.

Depending only on luck and a numbers game is not a smart move.

Over half of mid-sized to large corporations are now using Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

ATS software scans resumes and job applications before a human sees them.

So, if your resume doesn’t include the keywords that an ATS is scanning for for that particular job, your chances of an interview are pretty low.

A tailored resume also allows you to present yourself on your resume the way you want to be seen to some extent. You can highlight the parts of your experience that are relevant to the job and downplay the parts that aren’t as much.

A targeted resume will also allow a recruiter to quickly see how perfect you are for the job.

What Parts of Your Resume Need to be Customized?

What do you need to customize for a targeted resume?

Well, almost all of it.

These parts of your resume should be customized to each job:

• Professional title
• Professional summary
• Additional resume sections

Sounds like a huge task.

The trick is to start with a master resume and edit it down as needed for each job.

And of course, don’t forget to create a targeted cover letter to accompany your targeted resume for the job!

We will walk you through 9 steps to tailor your resume below.

1. Create a Master Resume

Starting with a master resume allows you to edit and delete information instead of recreating the wheel for each job application.

Tips for your master resume:

• Create a master resume that includes most, if not all, of your experience and accomplishments, education, and skills.
• Write a solid professional summary geared towards your desired roles. It doesn’t need to be perfect and you can improve it as you go.
• Research and add industry-related terms as appropriate to your resume. Add key industry terms that will be relevant to the type of jobs you are seeking.

The more refined your master resume is, the easier it will be for each job application you submit.

If you are targeting substantially different roles, you can have more than one master resume to work from. Start with one, then modify it for a second role or industry.

If you need help creating your master resume, check out our article, How To Make A Resume .

Now you’re ready to start tailoring!

2. Study the Job Description

Let’s learn through actual practice.

The job description holds the secret to a targeted resume.

Here’s a sample job description that we will use to create a targeted resume step by step.

This job posting is for a restaurant manager.

The responsibilities of the Restaurant Manager position are:

• Coordinate daily  Front of House and Back of House restaurant operations
• Deliver  superior service  and maximize  customer satisfaction
• Regularly review  product quality  and  research new vendors
• Organize and  supervise shifts
• Ensure compliance with  sanitation and safety regulations
• Control  operational costs  and identify measures to  cut waste
• Create detailed reports on weekly, monthly, and annual  revenues and expenses
• Promote the brand in the local community through word-of-mouth and  restaurant events
• Recommend ways to reach a broader audience (e.g. discounts and  social media ads )

The requirements include:

• Proven work experience as a  Restaurant Manager, Restaurant General Manager, Hospitality Manager,  or similar role
• Proven  customer service experience  as a manager
• Extensive  food and beverage (F&B) knowledge , with the ability to remember and recall ingredients and dishes to inform customers and wait staff
• Familiarity with  restaurant management software , like  OpenTable  and  PeachWorks
• BSc degree in Business Administration; hospitality management or culinary schooling  is a plus

If we study the job description carefully, we will find important keywords, skills, and accomplishments to highlight on our own resume.

We have bolded all that seems like valuable information.

Using keywords on your resume is a must.

It is possible to use too many keywords on your resume. “Keyword stuffing” can easily be detected by both ATS and hiring managers.

Don’t try to cheat the system with keywords written in white font or unnaturally repeating keywords. It won’t get you very far.

Now, let’s dive into how we can tailor each of the resume sections.

3. Tailor Your Resume Title

What do you think the title for the targeted resume we are creating for this restaurant manager should be?

The title, or headline, would simply be Restaurant Manager. That’s it.

Even if your professional titles have been Chef Manager, a Banquet Manager, or even an Executive Chef, the title you want to use is Restaurant Manager.

Use the title the hiring company uses for the job.

Using the title from the job posting allows the recruiter to easily see which job you are applying for.

4. Customize Your Professional Summary

You will now be customizing all that you have done and accomplished to match the restaurant manager job posting.

A professional summary, or resume summary, is a condensed overview of your career.

It shows what you have accomplished in your career and some of your major skills.

The goal of a resume summary is to show that you are the perfect candidate for the job. So, it must be tailored to that specific job.

Include your skills and accomplishments that directly relate to the job description.

Let’s write a targeted resume summary for the Restaurant Manager job:

Restaurant Manager with 8+ years of experience in the food and beverages (F&B) industry. Coordinated daily Front of House and Back of House restaurant operations at industry giants like XYZ Restaurant, ABC Restaurant. Flawless track record of continuous revenue growth by 20%. Increased customer satisfaction by 10% through superior service quality.

Now, here’s a not-so targeted resume summary sample:

Worked with industry giants and took established restaurants to new heights. Ability to manage all restaurant floor activities, including staff monitoring and work allocation. Expertise in developing business continuity processes and change management for restaurant businesses.

Which do you think would lead to an interview call?

Certainly the first one with the use of keywords from the job description and a quantifiable accomplishment to back up the claims.

The accomplishments mentioned and quantified are directly related to the job requirements of revenue reporting and maintaining customer satisfaction.

(Learn more: How to Write A Resume Summary )

5. Use a Targeted Skills Section

This section of your resume is a snapshot of your skills in list form.

Compare the skills from the job description to those you possess.

Try to include 12-15 skills on your resume.

This is one of the easiest sections to customize based on the job description.

Our Restaurant Manager can list all these releavent skills on their resume:

Managing restaurant events, leadership, financial reporting, P&L, conflict resolution, negotiation

Technical Skills: OpenTable, PeachWorks, Social Media Marketing

Listing these skills is less effective:

Active listening, management, human resources, budgeting, continuous improvement, staff monitoring

Technical Skills: Excel, Word, reporting tools

Keyword-stuffing is painfully obvious here:

Managing restaurant events, human resources management, conflict management, managing budgets, staff management

Technical Skills: Restaurant Management Software, Social Media Management

The first example checks all the boxes that the hiring manager wants.

The second one is generic for any managerial role.

The third…well…yikes!!!

Include the skills you actually have here. It’s easy to cut-and-paste skills from the job description, but you need to have those skills as well!

(Learn more: Most Important Skills For a Resume )

6. Include Relevant Work Experience

Work experience is another resume section that has to be highly tailored to the job you are applying for.

Again, go back to the job description.

Find the key points from the responsibilities and requirements section that match the tasks and accomplishments from your previous jobs.

Emphasize and prioritize these in each of the roles you include on your resume.

Here’s how our Restaurant Manager should tackle this:

• Ensured unfaltering superior service quality over the years.
• Increased customer satisfaction ratings by 10% across review platforms.
• Developed and implemented social media ad campaigns generating 120% ROI.
• Monitored weekly, monthly, and annual revenues and expenses reporting.
• Organized training to enhance staff performance and productivity.
• Decreased customer complaints to virtually zero.

Impressive, isn’t it?

Let’s take a look at what could have gone wrong:

• Instrumental in overseeing the procurement and distribution of cooking supplies profitably.
• Played a lead role in periodical financial auditing and management. 
• Oversaw employment and training of restaurant staff members. 
• Conducted operations according to all industry best practices, legal rules, and regulations.

What do you think?

Although the second version sounds like a great manager, it’s not checking any of the major boxes on the job description.

7. Expand on Your Education

Should you customize the education section of your targeted resume?

Most certainly if you are a recent graduate.

If you are not a recent grad and have substantial work experience, the education section of your resume should be short and sweet, unless you are specifically asked for more information.

Add your relevant coursework, projects, and academic accomplishments that match the bold items on the job description.

Prioritize those items in your education section.

Here’s how the education section could look for our Restaurant Manager:

BSc in Business Administration – 2 022

State University

• Coursework: Strategic Management for Hospitality, Cost Controls for Food and Beverage, Guest Services Management, Food Safety & Sanitation Management
• Organized project with Z Non Profit to spread awareness on sanitation and safety regulations among local restaurants.

This education is not targeted to the job:

BSc in Business Administration – 202 2

• Coursework: Accounting, Business Law, Economics
• Worked on a project with Z Non-Profit to assess food safety standards

Including irrelevant information in your education section just takes up valuable space.

8. Add Extra Resume Sections If Warranted

Additional resume sections are a great place to showcase any extra qualifications, skills, and accomplishments you have.

These sections need to be even more tailored and targeted, or they will seem redundant and/or unnecessary.

Add an extra section to your resume only when you have something to show that’s also in line with the job description.

Our Restaurant Manager could include volunteering for a community cooking class organization or volunteering for a local charity organization working in food management.

Always remember to only include information on your resume that will help you get an interview.

9. Target Your Cover Letter

Once you have your targeted resume ready to go, writing a targeted cover letter to accompany the resume should be a breeze.

Here’s how to target your cover letter:

• Start by addressing the hiring manager by their name.
• Open with a catchy hook and express your interest in the position.
• Offer a high-impact preview of your resume showing how you are the perfect fit.
• Talk about your most notable and relevant details using the keywords from the job description.
• End the letter with a call to action for a meeting to discuss further.

You will have your targeted cover letter ready in no time!

(Learn More: How to Write an Amazing Cover Letter )

Key Takeaways

Let’s make writing a targeted resume even easier!

Follow these steps to write a targeted resume:

• Create a master resume with your skills, accomplishments, and other details.
• Note all the important keywords and phrases in the job posting you are interested in.
• Compare the keywords from the job description with your master resume and delete or rephrase information that isn’t relevant.
• Ensure that the information throughout your resume is related to the job description and shows you as a great match.

Viola! You have your targeted resume for the job you are applying for!

Need professional help writing your job-specific or master resume?

Find My Profession is here to help!

We will match you with a professional resume writer with experience in your field. They will know the keywords and industry terms to use on your resume.

If you’d rather not do any of this yourself, there’s an option for that too. We can professionally manage your job search  (including targeted resumes) for you!

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Importance of Targeted Cover Letters: Crafting Personalized Professional Impressions

Targeted cover letters wield an unparalleled influence due to their specificity. Understanding that a resume can be twice as effective when accompanied by a cover letter with an attention-grabbing opening, concise statements, devoid of errors, and concluding with a compelling call to action is crucial. In essence, a targeted cover letter tailors its content to the company, addresses the decision-maker by name, articulates the desired position, and conveys a distinct message. This precision elevates its success rate far beyond that of a generic cover letter.

Initiating the process of drafting a targeted cover letter involves identifying one’s job-related, transferable, and personal skills. Subsequently, delineating the preferred type of company and the requisite skills for the industry of interest becomes paramount.

Crucially, delving into the company’s desired skills, ethos, and recent organizational developments is imperative. Leveraging this knowledge strategically enables the applicant to showcase how they can contribute to the organization’s objectives. Utilizing online resources for comprehensive company research is highly recommended.

While general cover letter tips abound, a pivotal guideline is to shift the focus from oneself to the prospective employer. Demonstrating how one can alleviate the company’s pain points and elucidating why they aspire to join the organization fosters genuine interest.

The strategic use of pronouns is pivotal in achieving this shift. Replace first-person pronouns with second-person pronouns to center the narrative on the employer. For instance, instead of stating, “I possess a skill set that aligns with the company’s needs,” frame it as, “You’ll find my expertise to be in alignment with your organization’s requirements.” This linguistic shift augments the appeal of the cover letter, increasing the likelihood of securing interviews.

Consider the following example: “I have a few innovative concepts to discuss, which could potentially benefit your company’s future trajectory.”

A compelling resume is the gateway to job interviews and subsequent offers. If the current results generated by your resume fail to meet expectations, taking proactive steps to refine it is imperative to shape a promising future.

Targeted cover letters epitomize personalized professional impressions. Their specificity not only captures attention but also demonstrates a genuine interest in the prospective employer’s needs and objectives. By aligning one’s skills with the company’s requirements, applicants can significantly enhance their chances of securing coveted job interviews and advancing their careers.

We look forward to partnering with you in the future,

Candace Davies ACCC, CRW, CIC, CPRW, CEIP, CECC Review Candace’s credentials here.

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Work To The Wise

Career tips to help you improve your work life!

What Is a Targeted Resume or Cover Letter?

Why target resumes & cover letters.

When you apply for a job, you want to carefully target your resume and cover letter to EACH and every job. Why is that so important? Because a targeted resume is a lot like an a direct advertisement that calls YOUR name and knows what you really want.

Well, your resume is a marketing tool and your direct target is the employer. And so you want to give it the best chance of catching the employer’s eye. And that means speaking their language … well speaking directly to their requirements and what they’re looking for.

Won’t they read resume anyway?

Easy answer. No. Whether human eyes screen your application or it goes through an automated system , you need to catch their attention quickly and easily.

Many resumes get less than 10 seconds of eyeball time. And if they don’t see enough that matches what they want (see key words ), your resume may never be seen again by anyone there.

Power of a targeted resume

But when you use enough words and phrases that connect to what they say they want, you have a far better chance of being selected for an interview. And, as you hopefully continue in the hiring process, your resume and cover letter get to keep reaffirming your match.

When I first started job hunting, I had that one-version resume I sent to everyone. But what I got back had many versions — of rejection letters. Employers don’t have the time or ability to think through how this wonderful person (who they don’t know) might be right for them.

So you need to help them see how well you match — quickly! Once I learned the powerful targeting trick and started customizing my resume (and cover) to each job I applied for, I started getting interviews. And offers.

Even just the process of thinking this through — how well you match the job / company and why — helps you interview more strongly. And that’s what targeting a resume and cover letter can also do for you.

Some more posts to help

10 resume writing tips for stronger resumes, 10 things i look for when i screen resumes and cover letters, how is a job application different from a resume, what exactly is branding for job search or career, 10 steps to match your resume to the job, what is a resume screener, what are automated resume screeners, using keywords and keyword phrases on resumes, why a resume gets rejected — even good ones, looking for more job search help, job search & interview resource center.