How to Write a Good Cover Letter for a Job Application
Writing a good cover letter for a job application is an essential first step to landing a job. It's important to know the proper technique for writing a stellar cover letter because most hiring managers won't read every cover letter they receive in its entirety. There are ways that you can help your application stand out from the crowd, even if your background isn't a perfect match for the position you're seeking.
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Instructions
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Gather as much information as you can about the company you're applying to, the position you're applying for and the hiring manager, if possible. Read the company's mission statement, review the company website and read the job description thoroughly.
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Select two to three keywords you think describe an ideal candidate for the position. You can sometimes find keywords in the company mission statement.
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Format your letter using professional business format. Format your cover letter in block format. Use letterhead, if you have it, or type your name and address at the top center of the page to make your own letterhead. Type the date, leave a few spaces, and then type the address of the recipient, starting with the person's name and title. Leave two spaces, and then add your salutation. Start the body of your letter two lines below the salutation. The body of your letter should be three to four paragraphs long, each paragraph consisting of three to four sentences.
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Start the first paragraph of your letter with a strong opening. A strong opening lists the position you're applying for and highlights why you are the ideal candidate to fill the position. Try to use one of the keywords you identified in Step 2 in your first sentence.
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Highlight your relevant expertise, including the remaining two keywords from Step 2, in the rest of the first paragraph. The first paragraph will lead the hiring manager to decide whether to continue reading your letter, so you want to make a stellar first impression.
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Describe your relevant background and experience in the middle one or two paragraphs of the body of your letter. Use action words and phrases, and outline your accomplishments. If possible, provide actual numbers and statistics. For example, "Increased sales in my region by 25 percent within the first year."
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Express your respect for the organization and desire to be a part of the company briefly in the last paragraph. State that you would like the opportunity to meet with the hiring manager to discuss your qualifications in detail.
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Leave two spaces below the body, and close your letter with "Sincerely" followed by a comma. Leave three spaces and type your name. A few spaces below your name, type the word "Enclosure" or the abbreviation "Encl." to indicate that your resume is enclosed in the same envelope. If you are sending additional copies to additional parties, list them alphabetically a few spaces below "Enclosure."
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Proofread your finished letter, looking for spelling and grammatical errors. Rephrase any awkward sounding sentences.
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Print your letter on professional resume paper, if you are mailing it. Type the recipient's address and return address on the envelope instead of hand writing it, if possible. Hand deliver your resume and cover letter, if possible. Otherwise, place it in the mail.
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Tips & Warnings
Job applications are often emailed today, rather than sent in the mail. There will still be occasions where it's more appropriate to send a formal application by mail. If you are emailing your cover letter and resume, you should still follow professional business letter format. Rather than note, "Enclosure" at the bottom of your letter, note "Attachment" instead to indicate that your resume is attached. Have a friend or relative read your cover letter before you send it. Someone else may be able to offer you pointers from another perspective, and can let you know if your letter sounds awkward or is unclear.
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Comments
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thank you for information
