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The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce you and your resume as well as give some additional information about yourself to potential employers. You may also want to point out some parts of your resume you want the employer to pay special attention to.An individually typed cover letter typically accompanies each resume you send out. Knowing how to write a cover letter may make the difference between obtaining a job interview and having your resume ignored. It therefore makes great sense to devote the necessary time and effort to learn how to write effective cover letters. 1.Use the following paragraph format when considering how to write a cover letter. First Paragraph - Why you are writing Middle Paragraphs - What you have to offer Concluding Paragraph - How you will follow-up 2.Always include a line in your cover letter that says where you found the advertisement for the job you are applying for. If you saw it in a newspaper, be sure to underline the name of the newspaper. 3.Always tailor your cover letter to the specific job you are applying for. It's certainly easier to write generic or blanket cover letters than knowing how to write a cover letter specifically targeted to each position you apply for. However, if you don't invest the time in learning how to write cover letters you're probably not going to get the interview, regardless of your qualifications. 4.Make sure your cover letter is a match between your qualifications and education, and the requirements of the job. This takes some time and effort and it's not always easy, but, it's important. To do this, take the job posting and list the criteria the employer is looking for. Then list the skills and experience you have. Either address to how your skills match the job in paragraph form or list the criteria and your qualifications. 5.Explain the reasons for your interest in the specific organization and identify your most relevant skills or experiences (remember, relevance is determined by the employer's self-interest). They should express a high level of interest and knowledge about the position. 6.In responding to an advertisement, refer specifically to the qualifications listed and illustrate how your particular abilities and experiences relate to the position for which you are applying. In a prospecting letter express your potential to fulfill the employer's needs rather than focus on what the employer can offer you. You can do this by giving evidence that you have researched the organization thoroughly and that you possess skills used within that organization. 7.Emphasize your achievements as well as problem-solving skills. Show how your education and work skills are transferable, and thus relevant, to the position for which you are applying. 8.Close your cover letter by reiterating your interest in the job as well as letting the employer know how they can reach you and include your phone number and/or email address. If you want, you can make a bid directly for the job interview or informational interview and indicate that you will follow-up with a telephone call to set up an appointment at a mutually convenient time. Be sure to make the call within the time frame indicated. You know have the 8 essential elements of how to write a cover letter - follow these and success will be yours!
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how to write a cover letter, how to write a cover letter for a resume,
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