Your freelance cover letter is the first thing clients notice.
If you send a copy-pasted proposal, you tell your client, “I don’t have time to read your job description, understand your requirements, and offer a customized solution or help specific to you.”
So, you must always take time to write customized cover letters.
But how would you customize your cover letters?
Today, I’ve got the 5 Actionable freelance cover letter tips that will customize your cover letters into client magnets.
Please note that I’m sharing these tips after trying and testing them in my freelance proposals. And guess what? They worked for me.
Let’s get started!
1. Make your Cover letter Client-centric
Remember, freelancing is not about you; it’s all about YOUR CLIENTS
Instead of just boasting about:
- YOUR skills and expertise
- YOUR experience
- YOUR achievements
- YOUR success
- YOUR qualifications
FOCUS ON
- What can you do for your clients using your skills and expertise?
- How can your experience help clients achieve their goals?
- How do your achievements ensure your ability to deliver what you promise successfully?
- How interested are you in the client’s success?
- Are your qualifications relevant and helping your target client or a specific project?
Imagine freelance jobs as different questions on a question paper, which you’d typically solved as a student. Some questions require short answers, and some require detailed answers. And when you write the right answers depending on the question type, you’ll score more points!
When you attempt these questions daily, you’ll improve, learn from your mistakes, and get better opportunities.
When you do this, you shift your focus on the job’s requirements and write a better cover letter.
But not all your freelance proposals will get you a freelance client, even if you absolutely nail down the cover letter writing. Some will be hit or miss. But that’s not your fault; you must keep trying!
2. Use the Instant SPEECH Formula
This is a proven tip that I follow while writing freelance cover letters:
The idea is to simply speak to your client’s needs.
Here is a short story to simplify this technique for you:
Back in school, my physics teacher often repeated things from the textbook while explaining. He was an excellent teacher, but you know, physics can be tricky. Sometimes, we couldn’t understand what he was actually explaining. After class, when he asked if we got it, everyone would nod, but no one could really answer his questions.
However, when I precisely repeated the same definitions and explanations word for word, he would be impressed, exclaiming, “Wow! “You understood.” see, Atiya understood! She is the only one who is paying attention to my lecture with full concentration.
That’s how this trick worked. I did it multiple times, and it worked. And I actually understood his lectures, by the way!
That’s how this trick worked for me whenever I applied it for writing freelance cover letters.
And here is the magic of this technique!
Here’s how you can implement this formula:
Identify Key Phrases or Keywords:
Start by reading the job description and any additional information provided by the client. Identify key phrases, pain points, or specific requirements mentioned in the description.
Repeat or Highlight the key phrases or points:
In your cover letter, directly mention and emphasize the identified key phrases or pain points. Repeat them in a way that shows you understand the client’s challenges or needs. This repetition helps in creating a connection with the client.
Format your response in the Client’s Format:
Structure your response using the same language and format that the client used in the job description.
If you find subheadings or bullet points, then replicate that with your response to each point. Similarly, if you find a list of questions, that exact question with your answer each in the same order.
Show How You Meet the Requirements:
Clearly state how your skills, experience, or previous work directly address the client’s needs. Provide examples that showcase your capability to handle the tasks outlined in the job description.
And here is how it helps you:
Proving Yourself as the Ideal Candidate:
You’re using their language, showing that you understand their concerns.
You’re proving yourself as the ideal candidate by showcasing how you meet each highlighted requirement.
This shows that you not only read the job description but deeply understand and can fulfill the client’s needs.
Instant Understanding:
Clients receive a clear signal that they comprehend the project requirements instantly.
They recognize that you know exactly what needs to be done without any prolonged explanations.
Standing Out from Others:
This approach helps you stand out from other freelancers who may not have personalized their proposals as much.
Let’s understand with examples:
Example 1: Job Description for Web Development Project
“We are looking for a skilled web developer to redesign our outdated website. The ideal candidate should have experience with modern design principles, responsive layouts, and e-commerce functionality. We need someone who can deliver a visually appealing and user-friendly website within a tight deadline.”
Cover Letter using INSTANT SPEECH Formula:
I understand you are looking for a web developer to revamp your website. Time is of the essence, and you need a professional who can promptly deliver a visually appealing and user-friendly site. With my expertise in modern design principles, responsive layouts, and e-commerce functionality, I am confident I can meet your project requirements seamlessly. I recognize the urgency of your needs and assure you that I can deliver the results you’re looking for within the specified deadline.
Example 2: Job Description for Graphic Design Job
We are looking for a skilled graphic designer to create visually appealing marketing materials for our upcoming product launch. The ideal candidate should have experience in creating engaging designs that resonate with our target audience. Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and a strong portfolio of previous work are essential.
Cover Letter using INSTANT SPEECH Formula:
I understand the importance of captivating design in your upcoming product launch. Having worked on similar projects in the past, I recognize the need for visually appealing materials that resonate with your target audience. My proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, coupled with a portfolio showcasing my previous successful projects, aligns perfectly with your requirements. I’m ready to bring my expertise to ensure your product gets the attention it deserves.
It really works ONLY if you do it well!
BUT OVERDO IT: It may irritate your clients if you repeat unnecessary stuff or simply duplicate the same information without thoughtfully modifying it.
Example Job Description:
We are looking for a creative graphic designer to join our team. The ideal candidate should have experience in creating visually appealing marketing materials using Adobe Creative Suite. Strong attention to detail and the ability to work under tight deadlines are essential.
Bad Example for Unnecessary Repetition:
I’m excited about this opportunity to join your team as a creative graphic designer. I’ve extensive experience in creating visually appealing marketing materials using Adobe Creative Suite, and I am confident in my ability to pay strong attention to detail and work under tight deadlines. I understand the importance of a creative graphic designer who can create visually appealing marketing materials using Adobe Creative Suite and who possesses a strong attention to detail. I believe my experience in creating visually appealing marketing materials using Adobe Creative Suite and my ability to pay strong attention to detail make me the ideal candidate for your team.
3. Include QUESTIONS to ELICIT Responses from Clients
I learned this technique during my B.Ed teacher training, which includes asking relevant questions to elicit responses from students.
And I actively apply this technique while writing cover letters.
This technique compels clients to reply to your freelance proposal.
Once they reply, the ball will be in your court!
A communication gateway will open for you to convert that client to your paid customer (convince them to hire).
And please do not include irrelevant questions when the client is super specific in their job description.
Here are examples for better understanding:
Client Requirement: Proficient in SEO Optimization
Relevant Question: “Could you provide more details about the specific SEO techniques or tools you prefer for optimization?”
Client Requirement: Experience with Graphic Design
Relevant Question: “Are there any specific design elements or styles you have in mind for the graphics associated with this project?”
Client Requirement: Proven Track Record in Lead Generation
Relevant Question: “Could you share more insights into your target audience or any previous lead generation strategies that worked well for your business?”
Here is how to do it:
- Read and understand the client’s job description Carefully.
- Identify key details and requirements mentioned by the client. Ask yourself if there is any opportunity to include any questions in this proposal.
- Then, include questions that directly address the specific needs outlined in the job description.
- Ask questions that enhance your understanding of the project without sounding irrelevant.
- If you feel that a specific cover letter for a particular job description is perfect without any questions, skip including irrelevant questions unnecessarily.
Example Situations with Relevant Questions to Include in Your Freelance Cover Letter:
Example situations depending on client’s demands
1. Client Emphasizes Tight Deadlines:
For example: “I noticed that timely delivery is crucial for this project. Could you please share more details about the project timeline and any specific milestones or deadlines I should know?”
2. Client Highlights Collaborative Work:
For example: “I understand the importance of collaboration in this project. Could you provide insights into the preferred communication channels and frequency of updates or meetings to ensure seamless coordination?”
3. Client Stresses the Importance of Creativity:
For example: “I’m excited about infusing creativity into this project. Could you share your vision or specific elements you envision to ensure that my creative contributions align with your expectations?”
4. Client Requires Research Skills:
For example: “Research is mentioned in the job description. Could you elaborate on the key areas or topics you’d like me to focus on during the research phase, and are there any preferred sources or formats for presenting findings?”
5. Client Specifies Certain Software Proficiency:
For example: “I see that proficiency in [specific software] is crucial. Can you provide more details about how extensively this software is utilized in the project and whether I’ll have access to the necessary tools or licenses?”
6. Client Emphasizes Confidentiality:
For example: “I understand the importance of maintaining confidentiality in this project. Can you provide more details about the level of sensitivity of the information involved and any specific measures or protocols in place to ensure data security?”
7. Client Highlights Long-Term Collaboration:
For example: “I’m interested in the potential for long-term collaboration. Could you provide insights into the roadmap for future projects and how success in this initial engagement might lead to additional opportunities?”
8. Client Expresses a Preference for Regular Updates:
For example: “I see the need for regular updates. Could you specify the preferred frequency and format for progress reports to ensure that I’m providing the information you need in a manner that suits your preferences?”
Examples to seek clarifiactions in diffreent scenarios
9. Seeking Clarification on Specifics:
For Example, You mentioned the need for social media expertise. Could you clarify which platforms you primarily focus on, and are there any specific strategies or campaigns you have in mind for implementation?”
Another example: “I see that video editing is a key component of the project. Could you share more details about the style or tone you’re aiming for in the final edited videos, and any specific elements you’d like me to focus on?”
10. Seeking Clarification on Project Scope:
For Example: In your job description, you mentioned [specific task/responsibility]. I’d like to ensure that I comprehensively understand the project scope. Could you please elaborate on the expected deliverables and any specific milestones you have in mind?
11. Proposing Solutions:
For example: “Based on your description, I’m considering [proposed solution]. Would this align with your expectations, or do you have a different approach in mind?”
12. Discussing Revision Process:
For example, If the job description doesn’t detail revisions, ask, “Could you provide insights into the revision process? How many rounds of revisions are typically expected, and what’s your preferred feedback format?”
13. Confirming Project Duration and Budget:
For example: Could you provide more details about the expected duration of the project and the budget range you have in mind?
14. Discussing Post-Project Support:
For example, If post-project support isn’t mentioned, ask, “Are there any expectations for post-project support, such as troubleshooting or additional modifications?
15. Asking for Samples and required information or material when job requirements are unclear or unique:
For example, If the client’s requirements are unclear in their description, you can ask, “Could you share some samples or examples to help me understand how you want the final project to look like?
It could be any YouTube video, blog post, image, screenshots, or screen recordings.
Remember, the key is to customize your questions to the specific details mentioned in the job description and use them to showcase your understanding while gathering essential information to deliver a precise proposal.
4. HIGHLIGHT the most important words and SENTENCES in CAPS.
I personally do it a lot!
In fact, this is my SECRET TIP, which I use regularly in my freelance cover letters.
The idea is to highlight the most important words and sentences you want clients to notice in CAPS.
It really worked for me many times.
So do give it a try!
5. Break down your cover letter into SMALL SECTIONS with Questions, Subheadings, and Bullet points:
Break down long paragraphs into a maximum of three lines, include subheadings, and leave enough space between each section of the cover letter.
It makes your cover letter conversational and easy to skim through.
If you do it the right way, clients are more likely to read it till the end and RESPOND.
Here is how to do it:
Why am I the best fit/perfect match for this project?
I’ve gone through the details of your project requirements, and I noticed that you are seeking a candidate proficient in [mention specific skills, e.g., content writing, graphic design, SEO]. My background in [mention relevant experience, e.g., crafting engaging content, designing visuals, optimizing for SEO] positions me perfectly to contribute effectively to your project goals.
What you’ll receive with the final delivery?
Upon project completion, you can expect a comprehensive and polished deliverable. This includes [mention specific deliverables, e.g., well-researched articles, visually appealing graphics, optimized content for search engines].
Why should you hire me / trust me with your project?
This is a great opportunity to highlight your Unique value proposition.
Here is how I successfully handled similar projects in the past:
Give a short description (2-3 lines) of the most similar previous project with a link or project attachment.
Include Bullet Points while highlighting achievements, work samples, qualifications, or experiences:
Just make sure that the bullet points are concise and relevant.
Use hyperlinks to direct the client to your work samples, making it easy for them to review your previous successes.
Example Freelance Cover Letter Following All the Tips I Discussed in this post:
| Hello [Client’s Name], I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position you posted on [Freelance Platform]. As an experienced content writer with a passion for creating engaging and impactful content, I believe my skills align perfectly with your requirements. WHY ME: Proven Results: In my previous role, I increased website traffic for a client by 30% by implementing a targeted content strategy. Diverse Portfolio: I have successfully created content across various niches, from technology and finance to lifestyle and health. My versatility allows me to adapt quickly to your project’s unique requirements. Qualifications: Hold a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and possess advanced proficiency in SEO techniques to enhance your content’s discoverability. MY WORK EXPERIENCE: Freelance Content Writer (XYZ Company): Led a team of writers, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality content and achieving a client satisfaction rate of 95%. Editorial Intern (ABC Magazine): Gained hands-on experience in editing, proofreading, and curating content for a reputable publication. I am confident that my skills and achievements make me the ideal candidate for your project. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my expertise can contribute to your success. MY WORK SAMPLES: [Hyperlink to Work Sample 1]: A blog post that ranked #1 on Google for the target keyword within two weeks, driving organic traffic and user engagement. [Hyperlink to Work Sample 2]: An informative infographic that received 500+ social shares, showcasing my ability to create shareable and visually appealing content. Thank you for considering my application. Kind regards, [Your Name] |
Now, it’s your turn:
Which tip resonates with you the most, and how do you plan to apply it in your next cover letter? Share your thoughts, and let’s ignite a conversation that drives everyone toward winning freelance opportunities!”
