How to Write a Cover Letter for a Job Application

When sending a potential employer your resume, you should always include a cover letter. A cover letter lets the reader know quickly what makes you qualified for the job. The cover letter also lets you draw attention to the most important pieces of your resume that you want the employer to notice. Many hiring managers do not even read a resume if the cover letter does not indicate they are a good fit for the position.

Instructions

1. Address your cover letter to whom you are sending the resume. If you are writing to the person doing the hiring as well as the HR manager, address the letter to one and CC the other or address one letter to each. Also, make sure you have the correct spelling and title. Addressing a letter to "Dear Miss" when the recipient is a Ph.D. shows that you did not make much of an effort to learn about the company. Do not address a letter "To whom it may concern;" do all that you can to find who the letter is going to. If you can't, address the letter with "Dear Sir or Madam."

2. Use the first paragraph of your letter to introduce yourself and what position you are applying for. This is a good place to put a brief statement such as "I believe my experience as a (volunteer/receptionist/director) will make me an excellent candidate for this position."

3. Expand on your experiences. The following paragraphs of your cover letter should relate directly to the job you are applying for. Use this section to highlight parts of your resume that are relevant. Make direct reference to qualifications and duties in the job description.

4. Thank the reader for his time in the last paragraph. You should also mention the best way to reach you (email or phone). If a job description asks for salary requirements, the closing paragraph is a good place to respond. You should end the paragraph with your next step. If you will be calling to follow up, mention it there. If you are awaiting an interview, mention that you look forward to speaking to him in the future.

5. Have someone else proofread your cover letter. Ask him to then read the job description to make sure your letter clearly fits with the job you are applying for.

Tips & Warnings

• Use spell check on a letter written on the computer. Nothing can sink your chances faster than an unprofessional cover letter. If you are mailing your cover letter and resume, use resume quality paper.

• Carefully read the job description; the biggest mistake people make is sending the same cover letter to all employers. Don't include every piece of your resume verbatim. Remember the purpose of your cover letter is to get someone interested in looking at your resume.