When I first started my job search I didn’t understand why I needed a cover letter or I guess, I never understood the value in writing one-I mean wasn’t my resume enough? I learned from one of my professors that a cover letter complements your resume by praising the additional skills and qualifications you have for the job that are not mentioned on your resume. You will want to take the time to create a cover letter that will catch the employer’s attention so they will continue to read your resume and potentially offer you a job interview. After learning the significance of a cover letter and the role it plays in the hiring process it can take me a couple of hours to write a strong one. It is hard writing about yourself no doubt, but if you put the time in now, your efforts will pay off in the end. REMEMBER-for each job you apply for, you will need to modify your cover letter to meet the skills and qualifications outlined in the job description. So enough about me, let’s explore how to write a cover letter that is going to grab the employers attention and remember your name. Your cover letter should include detailed, specific information about why you are a good fit for the job. Some employers ask for cover letters and some don't. If they don’t, you should submit one with your application! It will show your hard work and how interested you are in the job. Information to include in your Cover Letter:
Information to keep out of your Cover Letter:
The balance gives some great suggestions about customizing your Cover Letter: It is very important that your cover letter be tailored to each position you are applying to. This means more than just changing the name of the company in the body of the letter. Each cover letter you write should be customized to include: Which job you're applying for (include the job title in your opening paragraph) How you learned about the job (and a referral if you have one) Why you are qualified for the job (be specific) What you have to offer the employer, and why you want to work at this specific company (match your skills to the job description, and read up on the organization’s mission, values and goals to mention in your letter) Thank you for being considered for the job They also provide a Cover Letter Writing Guide Cover Letter Writing Guidelines Here's an outline of the items that should be included in every cover letter. Before you get started, it can be helpful to review some cover letter samples, just so you have a visual of how everything fits on the page. These cover letter examples, both written and email, are designed for a variety of different types of job applications and employment inquiries. Do be sure to take the time to personalize your letter, so it’s a strong endorsement of your ability to do the job for which you’re applying. Header A cover letter should begin with both your and the employer's contact information (name, address, phone number, email) followed by the date. If this is an email rather than an actual letter, include your contact information at the end of the letter, after your signature. Your contact information should include: First and Last Name Street Address City, State Zip Phone Salutation Begin your cover letter salutation with "Dr./Mr./Ms. Last Name." If you are unsure if your contact is male or female, you can write out their full name. If you do not know the employer's name, simply write, "Dear Hiring Manager." This is better than the generic and formal, “To Whom It May Concern.” Review information on how to choose the right cover letter greeting to select one that works for the job and company you’re applying to. Introduction Begin your introduction by stating what job you are applying for. Explain where you heard about the job, particularly if you heard about it from a contact associated with the company. Briefly mention how your skills and experience match the company and/or position; this will give the employer a preview of the rest of your letter. Your goal in the introduction is to get the reader's attention. To get started, see examples of engaging opening sentences for cover letters. Body In a paragraph or two, explain why you are interested in the job and why you make an excellent candidate for the position. Mention specific qualifications listed in the job posting, and explain how you meet those qualifications. Do not simply restate your resume, but provide specific examples that demonstrate your abilities. Remember, actions speak louder than words, so don’t just “tell” the reader that you are, for example, a great team player with strong communication skills and an excellent attention to detail. Instead, use tangible examples from your work experience to “show” these traits in action. Here’s more information on what to include in the body section of a cover letter. Closing In the closing section of your cover letter, restate how your skills make you a strong fit for the company and/or position. If you have room (remember, just like your resume, your cover letter should be no longer than one page - here's more information on how long a cover letter should be) you can also discuss why you would like to work at that specific company. State that you would like the opportunity to interview or discuss employment opportunities. Explain what you will do to follow-up, and when you will do it. Thank the employer for his/her consideration. Signature Use a complimentary close, and then end your cover letter with your signature, handwritten, followed by your typed name. If this is an email, simply include your typed name, followed by your contact information, after the complimentary close. To check out the balance click www.thebalance.com/how-to-write-a-cover-letter-2060169 A big mistake I made when I finished writing my cover letter was submitting to the employer before having someone else proof read it for me! No wonder I was never contacted for the job interview. Having a friend, parent, case manager at an employment agency, teacher, etc. read your cover letter is important! Have them check and make sure you have the correct: Employer Company name and the correct spelling Other big cover letter mistakes I made include:
Top Tips for Acing Your Cover Letter:
1 Comment
|
Archives
November 2017
Categories |