The Cover Letter

These pesky “marketing letters” are an important tool in your job search!  Some people think that cover letters are redundant because the employer can just read about how their skills match what they're looking for, on their resume.  This is simply not true – cover letters are important and should be used! 

In some instances, you may not need a cover letter. For example, if the job posting is asking specifically not to submit one or perhaps through your experience you have realized that jobs in your industry prefer to just have a resume submitted for job postings. 

Using a cover letter shows the employer that you took the time to write a letter directed to the company and about the specific position that they have available.  They also provide an opportunity for you to market yourself to the employer. To not write one is to pass up a key opportunity.

Remember, you don’t need to write an essay.  The cover letter should never exceed one page. The simpler the better. The format below will work just fine.  Ensure you are showing the skills/experience the employer needs and HOW you have those skills/experience and what makes you as Asset to the company and position!  Don’t just repeat the job description and hope that will work.  Show off your skills/experience and be original - employers receive hundres of applicaitons for jobs they have posted, you need to make yours shine through! 

Cover Letter Basics

·        A cover letter is used to show how your skills and experience match what the employer is looking for; to highlight your strengths and abilities

·        Use terms/phrases taken directly out of the job posting to show your skills/experience, for example, if the job posting states “We are looking for someone with exceptional customer service skills” – use this wording in your cover letter

·        It should not be more than a few paragraphs long – we’re not writing a book here

·        The header on your cover letter should match the header on your resume

·        Try and find out who your cover letter should be addressed to (the person who will receive it)

·        Make sure you sign your letter!

Standard Cover Letter format

Heading (Your Name, Address, Telephone, Email and any social networking addresses you would like to add) – should match your resume’s heading

Date

Receiver's Name

Company Name

Address

Fax

Email

Subject: (Job Title or Job Number)

Dear ___________:

Introduction Paragraph:  should indicate how you learned about the position available

Main Paragraph:  You should summarize the skills, experience and qualifications that make you a good candidate for this position.  Make sure you look at it from the employers’ point of view; reference the job posting to include what the employer is looking for.  Include significant details that may make you stand out in the employers’ eyes.

Closing Paragraph: Thank the employer for taking the time to review your resume and show your interest in scheduling an interview to further discuss this position.  Add that you have enclosed (if mailing) or attached (if emailing/faxing) your resume for review.

Sincerely,

Your Name

Telephone Number

Some job postings will ask specifically for a cover letter, while others ask that you don’t send one.  Remember to always follow the employers’ instructions in the job posting. 

If you are emailing your cover letter/resume, you have two options for your cover letter:

1.  Create your cover letter directly in the body of the email or;

2.  Attach a MS Word document

Either way is typically fine with the employer (except for when they ask specifically how they would like you to send it).

Your job search is what you put into it - so make every application count!

~Sunny & Sassy