Cover Letters
Writing good cover letters is critical for conducting
an effective job search. In fact, some employers report a well-crafted
cover letter is sometimes more important in getting the job than
the resume or interview. A good cover letter should:
- catch the reader's attention
- motivate the reader to want to know more (review
resume)
- move the reader to take action (schedule an interview)
Never mail a resume without a cover letter. It
is important that you try find out the name and title of the person
who will be reviewing resumes and/or conducting the interview.
If you find that this information is not accessible, address the
letter to the president of the company or to Dear Sir/Madam:.
Each letter should be no longer than three or four paragraphs
and limited to one page.
The first paragraph:
Immediately explain why your background makes you the best candidate
for the position for which you are applying. Keep the first paragraph
short and hard-hitting. Or, indicate the position you are applying
for and how you found out about it i.e., through networking, advertisements,
or on the Internet.
The middle paragraph(s):
This is the heart of your letter. You want to tell them why you
are the right person for the job. Focus on their job description
and address some of the key points with examples of how you meet
their needs. Make an outline of what they say they are looking
for. What is there about your own experience, education, and skills
that meet their stated criteria? Weave all of this into a narrative
that motivates them to want to meet you.
Sample Cover Letters (http://resume.monster.com/archives/coverletter)
The last paragraph:
In the closing paragraph, request an interview. Include your phone
number and the hours when you can be reached. Alternatively, you
might prefer to mention that you will follow up with a phone call
to arrange an interview at a mutually convenient time.
Since your cover letter will be seen as a sample
of your written communication skills, you must proofread the letter
carefully for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. You may
also want to use your cover letter to mention any information
that is not shown on your resume like temporary phone numbers,
or where messages can be left.
|
