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How to Get a Job Interview With the Perfect Cover Letter

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By Psalmist4M
User-Submitted Article
(12 Ratings)
Get a Job Interview With the Perfect Cover Letter
Get a Job Interview With the Perfect Cover Letter

Writing a cover letter is more important than some are lead to believe. A resume without a cover letter may be overlooked or completely ignored by a hiring manager. This is a reflection of your first impression. Here's how to make it a good one.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Hiring manager's name
  • History on the company you are pursuing
  1. Step 1

    Always SPELL CHECK your letter to ensure no goofs. Spell the Company name correctly (always verify).

  2. Step 2

    Avoid, Dear Sirs or Dear Hiring Manager. Make it personal by calling to get the Hiring Manager's name and the proper spelling if possible. This also shows initiative.

  3. Step 3

    State the job you are applying for in the first line of the letter. Also reference the job id number if one is in the job posting or the person that referred you or you have associations with from the company.

  4. Step 4

    Use personality and show how you have researched the company by referring to the facts that have impressed you about the company. Also, emphasize Your strengths, what you can do for the company, what you bring to the table to meet their needs.

  5. Step 5

    Keep it brief. Too much info or too little info could give the wrong impressions.
    -There should be eye catching phrases that capture their attention.
    -Too little details may imply lack of preparation, inexperience, or possibly too great a learning curve may be required.
    The letter should make them want to know more and desire to explore your resume.

  6. Step 6

    Today, some companies allow video introductions online. Take advantage of this to present yourself and technically knowledgeable and advanced. It also shows creativity and an ability to think "outside the box".

  7. Step 7

    Thank them in advance for their time and consideration to your submission.
    Ensure they are left with an idea of you as an asset to help them achieve their mission.

  8. Step 8

    Don't forget to offer to follow up and do it. Again this shows true interest and trust, that you will keep your word and commitment.

Tips & Warnings
  • It's ok to let them know you want the interview and look forward to it
  • Express boldly how excited you are to be a part of this company
  • Don't be lazy and use a carbon copy standard cover letter. They can see right through that.
  • Don't use the word "I" unless absolutely appropriate and unavoidable
  • Don't repeat excerpts from your resume verbatim, use imagination and your writing skills (maybe combine details to make it flow smoothly)
  • If your letter cannot get his attention in five to ten seconds, you may be overlooked

Comments  

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on 10/4/2009 Great tips to a successful cover letter. Thanks!

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on 10/4/2009 Great tips to a successful cover letter. Thanks!

mmetro said

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on 9/12/2009 Easy to follow instructions on how to write that perfect cover letter!

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on 9/6/2009 several great idea's...good article

AnneZ said

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on 7/28/2009 Good tips! Lots of people need jobs! 5*s

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