How to write a compelling information security analyst cover letter
From installing software like firewalls to protect sensitive data stored on computers to developing new security protocols, information security analysts have many essential responsibilities. To earn a job as an information security analyst, you will need a well-written and compelling cover letter.
In this guide, we will teach you the 5 key steps to writing a cover letter as an information security analyst. Keep reading to learn all about:
- How to craft your cover letter header & headline
- Why to include a personalized greeting on your cover letter
- What to say in your information security analyst cover letter introduction
- Ways to show your value as an information security analyst
- How to end your cover letter with an effective closing statement
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1. How to craft a proper cover letter header & headline
The first essential step to writing any cover letter is to create a well-formatted header and headline.
A cover letter header is a concise block of text – typically found in the upper left corner – that details all the necessary identifying information about the applicant and the employer.
As for the cover letter headline, this is a brief title statement that helps to hook an employer’s attention while simultaneously previewing the information to come.
To better illustrate how to create your header and headline, we have provided more in-depth explanations and examples of each below:
Formatting the header
A header can vary in its formatting, depending on the overall style and appearance you are trying to achieve. For your cover letter header, you should aim to have between 3 to 4 lines of text that include:
- The name of the company you are applying to (& the department name, when applicable)
- Your name and professional title
- Your professional contact information (phone number, email address, LinkedIn, etc.)
Here is an example of a well-formatted header on an information security analyst cover letter
To: Soul Systems Technologies, Information Security Department
From: Joe King, Information Security Analyst
(123) 456-7890 | joeking@email.com | linkedin.com/in/joe-king
Writing the headline
When writing your cover letter headline, you should always use a keyword related to the position, an eye-catching number or trigger word, a powerful adjective or verb, and a promise.
Here is an example of an effective information security analyst headline, followed by a brief breakdown of its key elements
My 4-Step Approach to Strengthening Information Security & How It Can Benefit Your Company
Trigger Word/Number: 4-Step Approach
Keyword: Information Security
Adjective/Verb: Strengthening, Benefit
Promise: Your Company – the addition of these words in your headline indicates to the employer that you will relate the information found in your cover letter directly to the needs of their company.
2. How to include a personalized greeting on your cover letter
For your information security analyst cover letter, it is crucial to use a personalized greeting rather than a generalized one.
A personalized greeting addresses a specific person or department by name, requiring you to thoroughly research the company before applying. By doing so, you show the employer that you have completed your due diligence as an applicant and that you have great attention to detail.
However, this information may not always be readily available for applicants to find. In this scenario, you can opt for one of the following alternatives:
To the [Company Name] Team
Or
To the [Company Name] Hiring Manager
3. How to write an eye-catching information security analyst cover letter introduction
The headline and greeting of your cover letter serve an essential purpose of initially grabbing an employer’s attention. To keep them interested, you will need a compelling cover letter introduction that includes:
- A brief overview of your professional history and goals
- A statement on why you are enthusiastic about applying to this company
- A mutual acquaintance (when possible)
Here is an example of a strong information security analyst cover letter introduction
To the [Company Name] Hiring Manager,
I am a driven Information Security Analyst with 6+ years of experience working in the banking sector. My mentor and university professor, Jack Smith, is a professional associate of your company’s CEO and recommended I apply for this position.
4. How to show your value as an information security analyst
With the introduction written and out of the way, it’s time to provide a more in-depth look into who you are and what professional qualifications you possess in the body paragraphs of your cover letter. A good cover letter will typically contain between 2 to 4 body paragraphs that answer these key questions:
- What excites you about working at this company?
- What do you hope to learn from working at this company?
- What accomplishments or qualifications make you stand out as an applicant?
- What key skills do you possess that are relevant to the position?
Showcasing your accomplishments should be a priority, as they help to demonstrate to employers the real-life value you can bring to their company.
Here is an example of how to describe an accomplishment in an information security analyst cover letter
As an Information Security Analyst for [Former Employer], I developed and implemented a new security application that reduced instances of fraud by 65%. This application also provided an automated regulatory program that reduced time spent on updating compliance systems by 50%.
5. How to end your cover letter with an effective closing statement
To conclude your cover letter, you need an effective and memorable closing statement that includes:
- An enthusiastic sentence saying you are looking forward to hearing from them
- An additional sentence stating you will follow up, including how you will contact them or how they can contact you
- A formal sign-off
Here is an example of a well-written closing statement from an information security analyst cover letter
With my self-driven attitude and commitment to quality, I am confident I will be an effective Information Security Analyst at your company. I would greatly appreciate connecting with you directly to discuss this opportunity further and am available to meet any weekday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The best way to reach me is via email at joeking@email.com or at (123) 456-7890.
Warm Regards,
[Applicant Name]
