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The Purpose
A cover letter should
do more than just introduce your resume. It is an excellent way to personalize
your application packet. When possible, each cover letter should be addressed
to the individual who will be conducting the interview. A cover letter
allows you to reveal information about yourself specific to the job you
want. You should include items such as how you found out about the job,
and why you are the perfect applicant.
Do I Need One?
Probably. A cover letter
should be used in the following situations:
- Any time an application
packet is mailed to an employer
- When you want
to make a good impression on an employer, no matter what kind of job
you are seeking
It is not always
necessary to have a cover letter for entry-level jobs, first-time jobs
for youth or when an employer asks for an application or resume only
Why Write a Cover Letter?
- A cover letter
is a professional way to round out an application package.
- Many employers
will notice if a cover letter is not attached.
- Not having one
will put you at a disadvantage when competing against others for employment.
- Will a cover letter
introduce new information about your qualifications that are not on
the resume? Sometimes
- Do most employers
spend much time reading cover letters? Usually Not
Cover Letters Should Be:
- Short and easy
to read, eye-catching
- No more than one
page, preferably three or four paragraphs
- A brief highlight
of your skills and/or experience, just enough for the reader to want
to move on to the resume
- Free of spelling,
typing and grammatical errors
- Positive and upbeat
Cover Letter Strategy
- Use the employer's
job description or ad to learn the language of the company.
- Research companies
that you would like to work for.
- Send out a generalized
cover letter highlighting your qualifications and simply change the
address to each company.
- 70% of job openings
are not advertised in the paper or at employment agencies. This strategy
will help you reach a portion of these job openings.
- Keep a record
of where you sent your letters and follow up to find out hiring procedures.
Information to Exclude:
- Reason for job
search Explanation of employment gaps
- Compensation &
job hopping
- Lack of experience/education
- Physical handicap/serious
illness
This is your
time to shine.
Highlight your most positive qualifications!
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Cover
Letters
So,
you've got a killer resume. Now compliment it with a great cover letter.
Here is some information and a few on-line references that can help you.
Use the navigation at the bottom of this page to navigate through this
section, or use the navigation at the left to jump to a specific topic
in this section.