Most jobs, if not all jobs ask for a cover letter. A cover letter is an additional document sent with your resume that explains and identifies your most relevant skills and or experiences. They also allow you the opportunity to provide more information on why you are qualified for the job and why you are interest in the specific organization. Below are techniques that will help you write top notch cover letters every time.
Sample Cover Letters:
There are several different ways you can do a cover letter. The best thing to do is look at sample cover letters online to see what style works best for the job you are applying for.
Don’t use Sir or Madam:
Addressing a cover letter can be tricky but you should never use “
Dear Sir or Dear Madam.” These terms are outdated. Always try to address your cover letter to the person responsible for hiring you. You can find this information out from doing research online or calling the organization directly. If you cannot find out their name you can use
Dear Management,
Dear Director of Sales or the team you would be working with
Dear Marketing Team.
Format:
Cover letters need to be properly formatted, readable, without any mistakes and no longer than one page. The safest bet is to write your cover letter in three paragraphs. The first paragraph should be an introduction of yourself, the job you are applying for, where you found the job posting and why you are interested in the job. The second paragraph should talk about your skills and experience that relates to the criteria listed in the job description. This paragraph is the most important because it will show the company that you are qualified for the job. In the last paragraph, say thank you for taking the time to read your cover letter and resume, the best way they can contact you and that you look forward to discussing your qualifications further with them.
Tailor Each Cover Letter:
Ever cover letter should be designed and customized for each position you apply for. It can be time consuming to write a customized cover letter for each job you apply for but in the end it is worth it. Customizing shows the company you took the time to do your research and put in the effort to show the company why you are a good match.
“This is why you should hire me”:
If your cover letter is done correctly, the hiring manager will know that you are qualified for the job or not. No one should beg or list reasons why they should hire you. People get hired when a hiring manager intellectually and emotionally believes that the person can do the job.
Remember: Your cover letter is your first impression to the employer and it is just as important as your resume.