How to Write a Proper Job Cover Letter

Before the interview and before the resume comes the cover letter. Your true first impression, the cover letter can speak volumes about your professionalism and presentation before you are truly able to speak for yourself.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet access

Instructions

Treat the Cover Letter Like a Job Interview on Paper

1. Use a template or program. You don't need to memorize proper business letter format but you do need to know that there is a proper format. Using guidelines from your word processing program as well as grammar and spell check can help you be sure that every period is in the right place.

2. Spend time on appearance and presentation. Composing a properly formatted cover letter can be time consuming. Allow yourself at least 30 minutes to write an original letter. If you are faxing or emailing a cover letter, be sure that it is in the proper format and maintains its appearance in electronic form. Be sure to proofread as well as spell check, since repeated or omitted words and words used incorrectly in the context will not be caught by spell check.

Create the Perfect Cover Letter

1. Write specific cover letters for each job you apply for rather than creating a general cover letter. Showing specificity reflects your interest in that job rather than your interest in just any job.

2. Refer to personal contacts. Name-drop if someone referred you for the job or you spoke to someone previously about the position.

3. Write with confidence. You need to convince the employer that you are the best candidate for the job. Focus on your strengths and try to convey to the reader that his or her applicant search is over.

Contact Potential Employers Through Other Means

1. Attach a resume. Be sure that the information in the cover letter reflects but does not simply repeat the information in the resume. Using a specifically targeted cover letter is pointless if you are using a general resume that does not highlight your relevant experience.

2. Follow up your cover letter with a phone call or email. Call hiring personnel to make sure they received your information. This will often force them to look at something that might have been sitting in a pile.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider looking at cover letter samples online. Knowing what is out there and what is expected is a smart way to approach your job search. Make sure your cover letter is competitive with the letters that already exist in the job market.

• Don't feel the need to explain any negative job experiences in cover letters or job interviews. There are very few questions that an employer can ask regarding your personal life and you can determine whether you want current or previous employers contacted.