A cover letter is a complementing document to your resume. It is another opportunity to sell yourself to the potential employer. It expands upon your resume and highlights your skills and achievements. A cover letter allows you to elaborate how your experience uniquely qualifies you for the job and how you can add value.
There are four main paragraphs in a standardized cover letter.
• Introduction paragraph: Introduce yourself, the position of interest, how you heard about the position.
• Experience paragraph: Highlight your professional experience(s) and identify how it relates to the requirements of the position you are seeking.
• Value add paragraph: Specify what you can offer.
• Closing paragraph: Focus on the next steps, such as requesting an interview and following up with an email or phone call.
There are a number of online references for sample cover letters to help you get started.
• monster.com
• vault.com
• theladders.com
Tips for writing a cover letter:
• Customize your cover letter to meet the desired qualifications of each position. Avoid sending a generic cover letter.
• Research the position and the company.
• Always address the letter to the hiring manager, if known.
• Maintain professionalism.
• Be concise.
• Edit and proofread your cover letter.
• Avoid repeating your resume.
• Do not use too many "I's" (overuse of pronouns).
• Avoid stating a date by which you are available to start.
• Never embellish your qualifications and experience.
Effective cover letters are essential to your job search. You should present yourself in the way that best highlights your strengths and competencies.
