Embarking on the path for a new paraprofessional role, you've likely polished your resume and started your job applications, only to discover the requirement of a compelling cover letter. This isn't just a repeat of your resume; it's a snapshot of your proudest professional triumph woven into a narrative. Striking the delicate balance between formal tone and genuine personality—minus the clichés—can be tough within the confines of one page. Let's unlock the secrets to crafting a cover letter that leaves a lasting impression.
- Writing the essential paraprofessional cover letter sections: balancing your professionalism and personality;
- Mixing storytelling, your unique skill set, and your greatest achievement;
- Providing relevant (and interesting) information with your paraprofessional cover letter, despite your lack of professional experience;
- Finding the perfect format for your[ paraprofessional cover letter, using templates from industry experts.
Leverage the power of Enhancv's AI: upload your resume and our platform will map out how your paraprofessional cover letter should look, in mere moments.
If the paraprofessional isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:
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- Librarian cover letter example
- Retired Teacher cover letter example
- Academic cover letter example
- Music Teacher cover letter example
- PhD cover letter example
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- Computer Science Teacher cover letter example
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Paraprofessional cover letter example
Leah Torres
Chicago, Illinois
+1-(234)-555-1234
help@enhancv.com
- Concrete achievements: The cover letter specifies a quantifiable improvement (18% elevation in test scores) due to the applicant's initiatives, which provides evidence of effectiveness and a result-driven mindset.
- Relevant experience: Past roles are directly connected to improving educational outcomes, underscoring experience with student assessment tools and pedagogical strategies relevant to the role applied for.
- Leadership and innovation: The letter highlights the candidate's role in pioneering strategic interventions, showcasing leadership, initiative, and the ability to innovate within an educational context.
- Willingness to collaborate: It is made clear that the candidate values collaboration, acknowledging the importance of teamwork between students, educators, and parents, which is vital for an Educational Support Specialist role.
What should your paraprofessional cover letter look like - formatting and organizing your information
Have you ever wondered what are the must-have sections you need to include in your paraprofessional cover letter? Our builder sets those up for you with:
- Header - dedicated to your contact information, the role you're applying for, and the date (don't forget to include your name);
- Greeting and opening paragraph - to create a personalized and memorable experience for recruiters;
- Body paragraph - emphasizing your skill set and knowledge that aligns with the role and helps you to stand out;
- Closing paragraph - leaving a great impression and ending with an optional signature.
Use a cover letter template to discover the best formatting for your paraprofessional cover letter: that is single-spaced paragraphs and wrapping your content in a one-inch margin.
Ensure that both your resume and paraprofessional cover letter are in the same font. Stand apart from the crowd by using modern, yet simple fonts, like Chivo and Rubik, instead of the overused Arial and Times New Roman.
Did you know that the Applicant Tracker System (or ATS) won't be assessing your paraprofessional cover letter? Instead, submit your profile in PDF to recruiters to keep the same formatting and the design intact.
The top sections on a paraprofessional cover letter
- Header: Include your contact information and the date, as well as the employer’s details, to set a professional tone and make it easy for the hiring manager to reach out to you.
- Greeting: Address the letter to a specific individual, such as the hiring manager or school principal, to demonstrate that you've done your research and are personally invested in this application.
- Introduction: Start with a strong opening paragraph that highlights your enthusiasm for the paraprofessional role, your commitment to education, and any relevant experience that sets the stage for why you are the ideal candidate.
- Body: Use this section to detail your experience working with students, educators, and within classroom settings, reflecting on specific skills such as patience, adaptability, and communication which are crucial in a support role in education.
- Closing: End your cover letter with a confident conclusion inviting them to review your resume, expressing eagerness about the opportunity to discuss how your background aligns with the needs of their educational institution, and thanking them for considering your application.
Key qualities recruiters search for in a candidate’s cover letter
- Experience working with diverse student populations: illustrates adaptability and sensitivity to the needs of students from various backgrounds.
- Knowledge of specialized education techniques: demonstrates preparedness to support students with different learning styles and abilities.
- Patience and compassion: vital for managing challenging situations and providing a supportive learning environment.
- Strong communication skills: enables effective collaboration with teachers, students, and parents.
- Flexibility in work assignments: essential for adapting to various classroom settings and student needs.
- A background in the specific area of support (e.g. autism, dyslexia, ESL): shows specialized skills to assist students with particular educational challenges.
How to start your paraprofessional cover letter: with a greeting, of course
Have you ever considered just how powerful a personalized salutation can be?
We sure have news for you! Your paraprofessional cover letter should start with the right salutation to recruiters, nurturing a sense of respect and individuality.
Greet recruiters by using their first name (e.g. "Dear Tom" or "Dear Patricia") if you've previously established contact with them.
Otherwise, opt out for the less familiar, "Dear Ms. Peaches" or "Dear Ms Kelsey", if you've found the recruiter's name on LinkedIn or a corporate website.
"To whom it may concern" is never a good option, as it creates a sense that you've been sending out your paraprofessional cover letter to anyone. Instead, use "Dear HR team" or "Dear (company name) recruiter" for a feeling of exclusivity.
List of salutations you can use
- Dear Hiring Manager,
- Dear [Department Name] Team,
- Dear [Specific Job Title] Hiring Committee,
- Dear [Mr./Ms./Dr. Last Name],
- Dear [Company Name] Recruitment Team,
- Dear [Mr./Ms./Dr.] [First Name] [Last Name],
Introducing your profile to catch recruiters' attention in no more than two sentences
The introduction of your paraprofessional cover letter is a whole Catch 22 .
You have an allocated space of no more than just a paragraph (of up to two sentences). With your introduction, you have to stand out and show why you're the best candidate out there.
Set out on a journey with your paraprofessional cover letter by focusing on why you're passionate about the job. Match your personal skills and interests to the role.
Another option for your paraprofessional cover letter introduction is to show you're the ideal candidate. Write about how your achievements and skills are precisely what the company is looking for.
However you decide to start your paraprofessional cover letter, always remember to write about the value you'd bring about. Making it both tangible (with your metrics of success) and highly sought out.
What comes next: your paraprofessional cover letter middle paragraphs
In the next three to six paragraphs (or the body of your paraprofessional cover letter) you have to prove your unique value.
Most candidates tend to mess up at this stage. They tend to just copy-paste information from their resume.
That's one big no-no.
Remember that when writing your paraprofessional cover letter, it has to be personalized. And, your ultimate aim is to catch the recruiter's eye.
So, look back on key job requirements and write down a list that includes the ones you cover.
Next, select just one key achievement from your professional (or personal) history that meets those advert keywords.
Narrate a story around how you've grown your skill set and knowledge. Also, aim to show the unique understanding or soft skills you bring about, thanks to your past success.
Finishing off your paraprofessional cover letter with what matters most
So far, you've done a fantastic job in tailoring your paraprofessional cover letter for the role and recruiter.
Your final opportunity to make a good impression is your closing paragraph.
And, no, a "Sincerely yours" just won't do, as it sounds too vague and impersonal.
End your paraprofessional cover letter with the future in mind.
So, if you get this opportunity, what do you plan to achieve? Be as specific, as possible, of what value you'd bring to the organization.
You could also thank recruiters for their interest in your profile and prompt for follow-up actions (and organizing your first interview).
What to write on your paraprofessional cover letter, when you have zero experience
The best advice for candidates, writing their paraprofessional 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 paraprofessional 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 recruiters over shouldn't be difficult if you use your paraprofessional cover letter to tell a story that:
- Is personalized by greeting your readers and focusing on key job skills greets;
- Isn't spread all over the place, but instead focuses on one key achievement and selling your value as a professional;
- Introduces your enthusiasm for the role, passion for the job, or creativity in communication;
- Is also visually appealing - meeting the best HR practices;
- Ends with a nod to the future and how you envision your growth, as part of the company.
