Write a Cover Letter

Your cover letter must reflect you as an employee. It should pretty much tell the possible employer why he should hire you. It should get his attention and clearly pinpoint why you excel amidst the other applicants.

In the heading, the first paragraph must include your address and the date you are writing the letter. Put one space. In the second paragraph, put the name of the employer. Underneath his name is his title. Make sure that it is accurate. Then put the company name underneath, as well as the address.

Generally, the body of the cover letter begins with the greeting “Dear Mr./Ms. Employer.” It is preceded by the position you desire. Make sure it is short and sweet. Two to three sentences can do.

Make sure though that is covers the reason why you are writing the letter. Also indicate the position you are applying for. This is the opportunity to make yourself shine in your letter. Indicate your previous experiences and personality traits that will go hand-in-hand with this possible position.

For brownie points, you can show in your letter your interest in the position. Establish a connection briefly and specifically.

Proceed with the second paragraph by elaborating further on the points you have presented, specifically the reason why you are qualified for the position you are applying for. Focus on the experience and qualities that you believe will give you the edge among your competition.

The second paragraph is usually the longest in the cover letter. If you want, you can break this part into two so that it won't look lengthy. Just do not forget to indicate these points:

- Your first sentence is the opener to the whole letter. It is a short and brief introduction that already contains your accomplishments. It also gives light on your skills and why you are qualified for the job.

- The body of the letter provides the evidence to the points you have just claimed. Briefly cite internships, activities, projects or past work experiences that you have been associated to. Attach your resume but do not reiterate what is already visible in it word per word.

- Your final sentence is a wrapping up of what you have previously discussed. You can mention the position title as well as the company name so that the reader is reminded of the position you are applying for.

End your cover letter with a paragraph containing two to four sentences. You can refer to the resume you attached. You can also request for an interview. It is important you thank the reader/employer for his time and consideration in reading the letter. End it formally by writing your name and putting your signature above it.

Finally, here are some tips on how you can make your cover letter more professional

1. Research on the company as well as the specific responsibilities the position you are applying for entails. In that way, you will be able to tailor your letter to what the company needs.

2. Do not start your sentences with an “I.” Do not write in the passive voice like “This experience has allowed me to” or “Because of my internship, I have become responsible.” You should always make yourself the subject in each sentence of your letter.

3. Try to not use contradictions like I'd, it's and didn't. Spell each word out.

4. Spelling, punctuation and grammar mistakes are major turn off. The cover letter reflects your writing skills.

5. Do not forget to sign your letter using black ink.

Mario Churchill is the President of CareerJimmy and author of “Amazing Cover Letter Creator.” Visit him at: http://www.amazing-cover-letters.com for your “instant” cover letters today.

Posted by Jeff Bosco with no comments.
Read more articles on Cover Letters and Resume.