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How to Write a Professional Cover Letter

Contributor
By sdwriter68
eHow Contributing Writer
(12 Ratings)

As a Human Resources recruiter I frequently get asked how to write a professional cover letter. The goal of the cover letter is apply for a position. A cover letter should also be used to highlight and elaborate skills on your resume. A good way of tackling a cover letter is to divide into three short paragraphs. Read on to learn how to write a professional cover letter.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Plain business stationary
  • Computer
  • Printer (optional)
  1. Step 1

    The first sentence in your cover letter should indicate your interest in the position. A good example: I would like to interview for the receptionist position. Recruiters often are recruiting for several positions. You want to make sure your cover letter and resume go in the right pile.

  2. Step 2

    In the first paragraph you should also indicate why you feel you are a good candidate for the position. An example of wording: I feel I am an excellent candidate as I... It is a good idea to mention your best technical and software skills here. It is useful to use key words that match the job description. Of course, you should be honest. Do not indicate you are analytical if this is not your strongest suite.

  3. Step 3

    The second paragraph should elaborate and highlight the skills on your resume as they pertain to the position. This is a good place to mention the sales you increased or the marketing project you managed. You can also mention a hobby that is relevant to the position. This is not always possible to do on a resume. Remember that a resume should normally not exceed two pages.

  4. Step 4

    The third paragraph should thank the reader for their time. A good way to end a cover letter is by requesting a time and date to have an informal meeting to discuss the position.

Tips & Warnings
  • Do not add silly fonts, pictures or graphics on a cover letter
  • Cover letter should not exceed one page
  • Make sure you edit your cover letter or have someone else read it

Comments  

xrayness said

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on 7/10/2009 Excellent instructions; thanks for sharing.

berlinn said

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on 7/10/2009 thank you

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on 3/26/2009 Great tips! I am in the process of writing a cover letter and needed to know exactly what the recruiter is looking for. Thank you! 5 stars.

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