For some job seekers, a cover letter feels like an afterthought while their attention is focused on their resumes. Nevertheless, employers still expect to see a letter attached to every resume they receive; be sure yours represents you to your best advantage.
Professional resume writers recommend you treat your cover letter like a commercial: It is a short, targeted advertisement designed to convince an employer that you fit the job description.
Brevity is the Soul of a Cover Letter
Cover letters should be short and focused: one to two paragraphs or a short bulleted list of no more than five items.
Just like 30 seconds of TV time during the Super Bowl, this introduction should stay on target and deliver a message. Avoid wasting anyone's time with obvious statements like "I am looking for a job..." "My name is..." or "Resume attached" or repeating on the contents of your resume. Offer the human-resources representative a good, concise reason to read your resume and call you.
Proper Structure
Create a unique opening that will attract attention but explain your qualifications for the job based on the duties advertised. The cover letter should explicitly state how and why the resume attached describes a candidate who is perfectly qualified and experienced for the position.
Name-dropping in excess can be pretentious and extraneous, but sometimes it works. Mention the name of a co-worker, an important project or company only if you're sure it will be recognized by the HR screener and is relevant to the job description. For example, a cover letter for a position open to writers or editors could include a prestigious and well-known publication that the candidate has appeared in as long as it is relevant to the new position. Candidates for technical positions should offer examples of their own published research to establish expertise within their field.
Address to a Specific Person
While the cover letter targets the job opening, it should also be directed to the right person. Personally address it to the pertinent hiring or HR manager, and send it direct to them rather than using a general company or HR address. Do a quick Google search to find the right contact. Make sure you address the person directly in the salutation. Generic phrases like "Dear Sir or Madam" demonstrate that you didn't bother to do your homework.
A Bad Opening - What to Avoid
Above all, mind your Ps and Qs and eliminate any hint of grammar and spelling errors. Nothing will sink your chances faster than a poorly written resume or cover letter. Be sure to use natural language. Employ just enough jargon to demonstrate that you are an expert in your field, without making the document difficult to read.
Be sure to demonstrate your interest in the job. This includes asking for an interview and a declaration to follow up three to five days later. The follow-up also demonstrates dedication and eagerness and represents another chance to request an interview.
Author Resource:
Matthew Rothenburg is editor-in-chief of TheLadders.com, the premier Web site for online job search listings for $100K+ jobs and career advice .
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