Writing an Effective Cover Letter
Purpose of Cover Letters
Capture the reader’s attention Demonstrate how you can be of value to the
company by showing exactly what you can offer
– Strengthen your value by using “power words”
Convince the people who read your letter that they want to interview you and probably hire
you Accomplish all of this in the time it takes someone to skim over your letter
Grab Employer’s Attention
Type on good quality, white or off-white paper Present a neat, clean look Absolutely no errors
Use the correct name and title of the person to
whom you are writing
– Not sure? Call the company and find out.
Mention a mutual acquaintance, a respected
teacher, a businessperson, etc. who has suggested you contact this company
Show You’re Someone of Value
Either through their ad posting or job description, determine what the company needs and how you can meet those needs. DO NOT GIVE A CHAPTER-ANDVERSE ACCOUNT OF YOUR EDUCATION AND WORK RECORD!
Power Writing
Select “action words” that make you
look like a can-do kind of candidate:
– “trained” – “organized” – “designed” – “operated” – “managed” – “developed” – etc.
Ask for an Interview
The technique of sending out résumés
and waiting to be called has a fatal flaw: It’s too easy for even an interested personnel manager to put off the call. With target letters, you take the initiative: “I’ll be in your area next week and will call you” shows that you plan to follow through.
Keep Letter Concise
In TV commercials, every second counts; every scene and image is there for a reason. A cover letter, for the same reason, should not run more than one page. Edit it carefully.
Tips for Superior Cover Letters
Every good cover letter: Presents a good appearance Uses an appropriate format Provides a friendly review Targets your skills and experiences Defines what you plan to do next