Job seekers write the cover letter to introduce themselves to the employer and to convince them to read the resume. Hopefully, this leads to a job interview. The best way to get the employers attention is to detail their education, background, and how it relates to the opening. Applicants should show they have researched the company and know the companies background. This displays enthusiasm for the job and an appreciation for the company.
Writing the Cover Letter
Cover letters should be prepared in a standard business letter format. Prepare the letter on high quality paper or letterhead if possible. Preparing the cover letter on high quality stationary will lend an air of professionalism to the letter and perhaps help the job applicant achieve more recognition in the job interview process.
Cover Letter Spacing
All cover letters (like business letters) should be single space. The margin should be flushed to the left hand side. Use double spacing between the paragraphs.
Cover Letter Page Length
The maximum length for the cover letter should be one page. The body of the cover letter should be no longer than 2 or 3 paragraphs. Begin the letter with an appropriate salutation. This is a professional greeting. Always address the cover letter to a specific person in the organization. If the name is unknown. Call the office and find out his or her name.
Cover Letter Opening Statement
The first few sentences in the cover letter should tell the employer the job which is applied for and how the applicant knows about the job. The applicant should take this opportunity to let the employer know if he is responding to an ad in the paper, a friends request, recommendation. Add any other details known about the company, and why the applicant wishes to work for the organization.
Cover Letter Body
The applicant should briefly explain why he should be considered for the job opening. It is considered bad form to repeat the same information that is included in the resume. The information in the cover letter should expand on other information relevant to the job opening and the applicants skills.
Conclusion
End the cover letter with a thank you and ask for an interview with the company representatives.
Ex: I would like to discuss my qualifications for the computer programmer position in an interview. Please call me at 123-456-7890. Thank you for your time and consideration.
The Follow Up
It is considered good etiquette to follow up the cover letter and resume with a telephone call to the employer to discuss the interview. This shows employers the job applicants enthusiasm for the job and working for the company.
Take the information included here into due consideration when preparing a cover letter for submission to potential employers.
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