Cover letters are an annoying but essential tool in securing a job in today’s job market.
I’ve worked hard to perfect mine. Can’t say they look much like the one here… I hate writing them but truth be told for every job out there, there are people who have resumes that look very similar or even better than yours. If the layout isn’t better the content and experience could be.
The cover letter may be your only chance to be an individual. To show who you really are. To outline what it is that makes you different and more suitable than the other 500 zillion other grads and experienced professionals.
Here is an outline of a cover letter that should only serve as a skeleton, much effort is needed to make this a unique piece:
Date
September 15, 2012
Employer Contact Information
Name
Title
Company
Address
City, State/Province, Zip/Postal Code
Salutation
Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name:
First Paragraph:
The first paragraph of your cover letter should include information on the position you are applying for, including the job title. If it is an online competition you may want to include the competition number in brackets after the position.
Middle Paragraph(s):
The next section of your cover letter should describe what you have to offer the employer. Mention why you are qualified for the job and how your skills and experience are a match for the position for which you are applying.
Final Paragraph:
Conclude your cover letter by thanking the employer for considering you for the position. Include information on how you will follow-up.
Closing:
Sincerely yours,
Signature:
Typed Signature
-End-
*Note: There is no standard for what a cover letter must be. You may choose to scrap this all together and just do you. If you have no creativity by all means copy and paste, it would be better than nothing. In all honesty the only “Correct” cover letter is one that gets you a job!
How do you set yourself apart from other people? What do you focus on when writing cover letters that you believe helps?
The Art Of Adaptation: Little details go a long way.
