5 Steps To Writing A Cover Letter

A cover letter is one of the most important steps to getting a job. It is often the first thing that a potential employer sees about you ? even before your resume. It can be the determining factor in whether or not you get an interview for the job. So, the cover letter has to be excellent. Unfortunately, cover letters are also a bit awkward to write and you may not know exactly what should be included. Use these tips to write the perfect letter.

Include all business letter formats

This is a professional document, so it needs to exactly follow all appropriate formatting. This includes the your address; the date; the reader?s full-name, title at the company, and address; and a proper closing.

Do your research

No matter what the job is, all employers are looking for conscientious and thorough workers. By making it clear to the reader that you have done your research on the job and company, you give evidence that you meet those qualifications. Address the letter to the correct person and comment on specific projects the company has done or is working on and your experience will benefit that.

Use the space wisely

The cover letter is an introduction to your resume. Many employers will not even read the resume if your cover letter is not good. You want to make the most of your letter, saying exactly what you need to say and nothing more. A long letter becomes forgettable, whereas a short letter holds the necessary details.

Say how you will follow-up

The follow-up to a cover letter is important. In your closing statement, say you how and when you will follow-up. Unless the advertisement for the job specifically says no phone calls, you should call. Once you write how you will follow-up, be sure to do it. While you will likely not get through to the person you want to speak with, you can at least leave a message and hopefully the employer will be told you are persistent; this shows you are truly interested in the job. If you do get through to the employer, it gives you a great opportunity to secure an interview or just get your resume read.

Choose your skills carefully

While you may have a vast set of skill and experience, not every detail needs to be included in the cover letter. Choose two or three pieces from your resume that best apply to your potential performance at the company. Highlight these in the letter. If they catch the reader?s eye, then the rest of your experience will be read in the resume.

As a recent college graduate, Liz Childers has done her fair share of cover letter writing and seen how it can pay off. She now is a freelance blogger who covers topics like using a picnic basket or tent for camping.

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