Make your cover letter work harder for you

When applying for a new job, your cover letter is more than just an introduction, it’s an opportunity to showcase your unique qualifications, passion, and suitability for the job. In the highly specialised fields of marine engineering, science and technology, where technical expertise and problem-solving abilities are critical, a well-crafted cover letter can significantly enhance your chances of standing out from other applicants. Here’s how to make your cover letter work harder for you:

1. Tailor Your Letter to the Role

The most effective cover letters are customised for each job application. Take the time to research the company and understand its goals, values, and projects. Reflect this knowledge in your letter by connecting your skills and experience directly to the specific needs of the employer.

For example, if the company is involved in offshore renewable energy development, highlight your experience in underwater robotics and net zero initiatives relevant to that field. Demonstrating an understanding of the company’s work and how you can contribute shows initiative and enthusiasm.

Key tip: Avoid generic openings like “I’m applying for the Marine Engineering position.” Instead, personalise it with specifics about the role and company, showing that you’ve done your research.

2. Highlight Relevant Achievements

Your cover letter should not simply rehash your CV. Instead, use it to emphasise key accomplishments that make you a strong fit for the job. Be strategic, pick a few standout experiences or projects that directly relate to the job description. Whether that’s designing marine propulsion systems, or leading field research on ocean ecosystems – you’re the best person to explain how your experience fits their specific needs.

Quantify your achievements whenever possible. Mentioning that you "managed a research project" is good but specifying that you "led a £500,000 project studying coastal erosion and its impact on marine biodiversity" makes your contribution clearer and more impactful.

Key tip: Highlight one or two projects that showcase both your technical expertise and problem-solving skills, especially those that involved collaboration or overcoming complex challenges.

3. Showcase Technical and Soft Skills

While technical proficiency is essential in our industry, employers are also looking for candidates who have strong soft skills like communication, leadership, and collaboration. Your cover letter should strike a balance between demonstrating your technical know-how and showcasing the soft skills that make you effective in a multidisciplinary team.

For example, mention your ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-experts, your experience leading cross-functional teams, or your capacity to manage time-sensitive projects under challenging conditions.

Key tip: When discussing technical projects, emphasise not only the technical outcome but also your role in managing the team, communicating results, or solving unexpected problems.

4. Demonstrate a Passion for the Industry

Hiring managers are not just looking for qualified candidates; they want people who are passionate about the role they’re applying for. Express your genuine interest in marine innovation and conservation and explain how this aligns with the mission of the organisation.

For instance, if you’re applying for a marine engineering position focused on sustainable technologies, you could mention how your fascination with renewable energy sources like tidal and wave power led you to pursue a career in this field. Or, if the role is in marine research, discuss how your love for ocean ecosystems has driven your commitment to advancing scientific knowledge.

Key tip: Include a short, personal anecdote or statement that conveys your motivation and passion for the marine environment.

5. Address the Employer's Needs

One of the most powerful ways to make your cover letter work harder is by framing it as a solution to the employer’s challenges. Instead of focusing solely on what you want from the job, show the employer how you can solve their problems. This requires understanding the pain points of the company, which you can infer from the job description, company website, or recent news about the industry.

For example, if the job involves the development of new underwater equipment for ocean exploration, discuss your relevant experience in designing durable and efficient systems for deep-sea environments. Show how your skills can help the company improve its operational efficiency, safety, or sustainability efforts.

Key tip: Make the employer’s needs the focal point of your letter. Use language like, “I can contribute to your team by…” or “My experience aligns with your company’s current focus on…”

6. Maintain a Professional, Yet Engaging Tone

Marine science, engineering, and technology roles require a high degree of professionalism, so your cover letter should reflect this. Use formal language but ensure that it’s engaging and concise. Avoid overly technical jargon unless it’s relevant to the role and would be easily understood by the hiring manager.

A professional tone doesn’t mean it should be dry—your cover letter is also a chance to show your personality and enthusiasm for the field. Striking the right balance between professionalism and personal passion can leave a lasting impression.

Key tip: Keep your sentences clear and to the point. Avoid lengthy paragraphs that bury the key information; instead, focus on making each section impactful and easy to read.

7. Close with Confidence and a Call to Action

Your closing should reinforce your enthusiasm for the role and provide a clear call to action. Express your interest in discussing your qualifications further, and suggest the next step, such as a follow-up interview.

For example, “I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my expertise in decarbonisation can contribute to [Company Name]’s projects in sustainable energy. Please feel free to contact me at [phone number] or [email address] to schedule a conversation.”

Key tip: Finish by thanking the employer for considering your application and expressing eagerness to contribute to their goals.

Final Thoughts

In competitive fields such as ours, your cover letter is your first chance to show employers that you’re not just qualified but also a perfect fit for their organisation. By tailoring your cover letter to the role, highlighting key achievements, and showcasing your passion for the industry, you can make it a powerful tool that works harder to get you noticed.

Take the time to refine each cover letter, ensuring that it demonstrates your technical expertise, soft skills, and commitment to marine innovation. With the right approach, your cover letter can be a persuasive advocate for your candidacy, helping you secure your next exciting opportunity in the marine sector.