Write a Killer Cover Letter

If you’re in the market for a new job, chances are you’ve been asked to submit a cover letter along with your resume. You may not realize the extent of its value. In one respect, it is more important than the resume, since it is the first thing that a hiring professional sees. As far as having your resume read, the cover letter can “make it or break it.” It needs to contain attention-grabbing information. This is especially true in a highly competitive field. Why should a hiring manager look at your resume when there are 200 other ones waiting to be read? By offering a well-written cover letter, you not only introduce yourself, but you also pique the interest of a potential employer. If you don’t capture the reader’s attention right away, your resume could be overlooked.

The Basics

Are all cover letters really read? The answer is “no”. However, sending a cover letter with your resume is still a standard procedure for today’s job search. Some letters may be only glanced at, while others will be carefully read, word for word. There’s no way to tell how your letter will be received in advance, so you need to be prepared. Anytime you mail a resume, enclose a cover letter with it. If you are faxing, it’s always better if you include the letter, but you can fax just a resume. Letters going through e-mail cannot be signed, but should still be included. Some posting sites may not enable you to send a cover letter and employers are aware of that. If you already have an interview scheduled, you don’t need a cover letter. It’s a selling tool, and its purpose is primarily to get you the interview.

The Content

Keep your letter limited to one page and focused on attributes that do not appear on your resume. You might begin by stating the position you are applying for and why you feel qualified for it. The worst mistake job seekers make is repeating information that is already on their resumes. Next, I have found certain information to be more appropriate for the letter, rather than the resume. Since employers want to know what you can do for them, do not focus on why this position would be ideal for you. Instead, build yourself up in the letter by stating some strong skills or abilities not mentioned on your resume. For example, you could inform the employer that you are experienced in participating in key decision-making processes, motivating and encouraging employees, managing conflict resolution, and/or prioritizing tasks to achieve goals in time management. Include the fact that you are a fast learner or multi-tasker. Mention that are able to maintain high standards of quality control or quality assurance. Highlight your record of attendance and reliability, if that has been positive for you. In other words, avoid specific accomplishments included in the resume, but include what you can “bring to the table.”

Final Advice

Research each company. You may include why you want a particular job if there is a specific reason – such as, you have heard that the company is run well and promotes positive employee relations. Lastly, you can mention what you enjoy most about the field you work in. Teachers can describe their teaching philosophy and how it relates to what they are able to offer.

Remember, a resume is a summary of your education, qualifications, and experience. If has not yet occurred, it does not belong on the resume. With this in mind, the cover letter is a good vehicle for mentioning important information that is not on the resume, such as, plans for relocation or the name of the individual who referred you for the position and encouraged you to apply. Any additional details that were left off of the resume belong on the cover letter. This could include information about furthering your education, goals you have set, or pertinent details associated with work experience that is over ten years old.

Make sure the letter is free of any grammatical errors and has the proper punctuation. Employers feel that sloppy correspondence reflects what kind of worker you will be.

If you are provided with a contact name, use it to personalize the letter. If not, “Dear Human Resources Professional” will do. When you are finished, mail it and forget it. Then go on to your next cover letter. If you follow this advice, job offers should begin to arrive soon.