How to Write a Great Cover Letter

In today's economy it is unfortunate but true: a lot of people are out there looking for work. How do you separate yourself from the pack when applying for that perfect job? With a finely crafted cover letter! Show your future employer that you are just the right person and you have an even better chance of catching their eye.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Job posting
• Word processing software / Typewriter

1. Carefully read the job posting. Employers take time crafting a job description that will get them the perfect candidate. Can you excel at this job? Even if you don't meet all of the minimum requirements, you can still let an employer know why you would be perfect in the body of your letter.

2. Choose three requirements from the ad that you can meet. Choose from the minimum requirements as well as the "preferred" set (see step 6 if you don't meet all the minimums).

3. Use a standard cover letter format (see resources). In the first paragraph, simply state that you are writing to apply for the job that was posted. There should be nothing generic about your cover letter! Use the specific job title and the paper/website/bulletin board where it was posted.

4. In the next paragraph, show how your work history / experiences demonstrate your ability to meet the job requirements. Let the employer know exactly why you can best meet their needs, using their own words. For example, if the job posting says "Must be detail oriented and able to multi-task," start your second paragraph with: "As you can see in my work history, my last three positions involved substantial multi-tasking, often including (task 1) (task 2) and (task 3). I excelled at following through on all tasks and was efficient and detail oriented."

5. Write one concise paragraph for each of the three requirements you identified in step 2.

6. If you are not able to meet one of the minimum requirements, let the employer know how you can overcome that limitation, and why you will nonetheless excel. For example, if the job posting says "Must be proficient in C++" you can list "While I am not currently proficient in C++, I am an expert in Visual Basic, which has a similar structure. And as you can see from my work and education experience, I am a fast and efficient learner. I will be able to use my VB skills and research knowledge to get up to speed very quickly."

Tips & Warnings

• Use power words in your cover letter and resume (see resources)
• Think about all of your past work experience, you may be able to draw on an unusual source (such as volunteer or school work) to document your skills and abilities
• It is important to be honest and truthful in your letter. Do not make up facts, your own experiences are unique and valuable, use them!

Resources

• Power Words for Resumes and Cover Letters
• Cover Letter Template (example 1)
• Cover Letter (example 2)

[kaydeosborn]

on 1/13/2009 Great advice! Exactly what I was looking for! 5*s