Rules for a Cover Letter

A cover letter is a short letter addressed to a potential employer that serves as an extension to a resume. The cover letter provides the potential employer with a personal introduction to the applicant and his job credentials.

Research the Employer

Letters with informal headings such as "To Whom It May Concern" leave a company feeling the applicant is not interested in researching the company. However, applicants who research the company not only show interest, but will also have a follow-up contact.

Attention-Getting Introduction

Applicants should give reasons why they feel they are essential to the job position. Address a company's specific needs when explaining any qualifications. For example, an applicant should explain how her previous job experiences and educational background make her the best applicant for the position. Examples of job experience and education levels relative to the position will make an applicant's qualifications more concrete to the employer.

Ask for an Interview

Express interest in obtaining a position with the company by asking for a job interview at the conclusion of the cover letter.

Eliminate Mechanical Errors

Eliminate all misspelled words, grammatical errors and punctuation mistakes in a cover letter. Errors in a cover letter will leave a bad impression. Keep the cover letter to one page.

References

• Indobase: How to Write a Cover Letter
• University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire: FAQS About Cover Letters