Your cover letter may be the first thing your potential employer sees. Some employers
read them, others don't; but if they do, you want to have the best letter
possible.
The hiring managers that do read cover letters usually use them to determine
whether it's worth their time to go on to read your resume.
If you are uncomfortable or unsure of writing a letter on your own, you may
want to consider hiring someone to do it for you. One option is to
hire a freelancer for a professional,
cost-effective solution.
Tips for writing a cover letter:
- Keep it short. One page is usually plenty.
- If you can, address it to a specific person. If you know the hiring manager's
name, address it to him or her. If you don't, get the name of the Human Resources
officer who will be handling your resume. Addressing it to someone makes it more
personal.
- State the position you are applying for. At the very beginning of your letter,
tell the reader what job position(s) you're interested in.
- Tell them where you found their job listing. This helps the reader gain
a little perspective on where you're coming from and what job posting you've read.
- Briefly state your qualifications. Indicate that your resume is enclosed
with further details.
- Indicate when and how you can be contacted. Again, be brief; simply state
a phone number where you can reached during the day. If you have an alternate number,
state that as well.
- Don't use slang. The person reading your letter may not
understand the slang term.
- Check your spelling and grammar. Be sure your letter looks and sounds professional.
- Be courteous. This should go without saying - you want to be polite to
the person who may be able to get you an interview.
- Try to infuse the letter with some personality. If your letter
looks and sounds exactly like everyone else's, you run the risk of having
your letter and resume tossed in the recycling bin. You will be more likely
to catch someone's interest if you can offer something unique. On the other
hand, don't go wild; set limits for yourself using the guidelines above.
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In this section:
Beware of Envelope Stuffing Opportunities!
Tips on Finding Work At Home Jobs
How to Write a Cover Letter
Resume Writing Tips
Preparing for an Interview
Interview Skills
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