How to Write a Cover Letter that Gets Results

Trying to get a new job? If so, one great weapon is a well written cover letter. Even if you have a great resume and wonderful qualifications, a bad cover letter can ruin your chance of getting the job you want. A cover letter is the big chance you have to get a second look from the employer. You need to use this to your benefit. If you are not sure how to write a cover letter, here is a step by step guide to help you write a cover letter that gets results.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Research the job you are applying for. Don't write a word until you have done your research. You need to make your cover letter relevant to the specific job you are applying for. Write a generic cover letter and you won't be the one getting the job.

2. Grab the attention of the reader with a great opening sentence. You only have a few seconds to get the attention of the employer. They are probably reading hundreds of cover letters, so you need to make yours stand out above the rest. Use your opening sentence to get their attention fast so they'll take a closer look.

3. Make your cover letter short. Many people make the mistake of writing a long cover letter. The problem is that no matter how many great things are included in a great cover letter, most employers aren't going to read more than about 20 seconds. Usually it is a good rule of thumb to keep a cover letter at half a page or less.

4. Make use of bullet points. When you want to write a cover letter that gets results, bullet points can be very helpful. This way you can make important parts of your letter stand out. They draw the eye and will ensure that important things you want to highlight will easily be seen.

5. Always add in your contact information. If the employer likes you and wants to contact you, they won't be able to if you haven't included your contact information. Insure that this information is at the top of your cover letter. It is also a good idea to include it again at the bottom of your letter. You don't want to miss the job of a lifetime because the employer couldn't find your contact information.

6. Sell yourself with the cover letter. A cover letter that gets results is all about selling yourself. Use this letter to sell yourself to the reader. Show off your abilities and your achievements. No one else is going to sell you to the employer, so you have to do it with your cover letter.

7. Take time to proofread and edit the cover letter before sending. Many people learn how to write a cover letter, write a great letter that shows off their qualifications well, and then they forget to proofread. Most employers won't be impressed with a cover letter that has errors in it. So double check your letter before you send the letter out. Run spell check and grammar check, re-read the letter, and ensure there are no errors. Then you'll be ready to submit your letter to the employer.

[sbarry77]

on 10/23/2009 great tips on cover letters!! 5* and recommended

[MyJB]

on 7/17/2009 Good tips on writing a well researched and job specific cover letter.