Your resume can be very impressive but if your cover letter is not equally impressive it's entirely possible that your resume will never get read. First impressions are lasting impressions. Most people spend just a few seconds reading a cover letter so it has to make your case clearly and effectively.
Below are a few tips to consider when writing a cover letter :
- Every cover letter you write should be customized for the job you are applying for, clear and concise, correct grammar and error-free.
- Send a customized cover letter with each resume you send out. Even if an employer doesn't request a cover letter it's helpful to send one.
- Target your cover letter. Take the job posting and list the criteria the employer is looking for. Then list the skills and experience you have. Either address how your skills match the job in paragraph form or list the criteria and your qualifications.
- Don't rehearse your resume. Your cover letter should complement not duplicate your resume. Expand on your resume and highlight your background as it relates to the job.
- Be simple and clear - Get right to the point and write short, targeted letters. Each letter should be one page or less.
- Personalize your letter - If you can, address it to the individual responsible for hiring. If need be, research online or make a phone call to find out who the hiring manager is.
- Spell check and proofread. Then ask someone else to read your correspondence before you send it.
- Review samples of cover letters to get ideas for format and content for your letter.
- Keep copies of all your cover letters, so you know what you sent to whom.
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