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Think cover letters are dead? Think again. As the economy slows down
and the job market tightens, a strong, well-written cover letter is
more important than ever.
What
exactly is a cover letter?
A cover letter is one of the best marketing tools you can use in your
job search. To help ensure that your resume will be reviewed, you must
convince the reader that your background is an excellent fit for their
organization. You can accomplish this by answering the most
fundamental employment question: "Why should I hire you?"
A well-written cover letter can make the difference between your
resume landing in the "yes" pile or in the "to be filed" pile. So,
here are some tips to help you create a winning cover letter.
Customize
Start by developing a generic "prototype" letter, which can then be
tailored as you respond to different opportunities. Follow these easy
steps:
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Review the position's criteria.
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Create a list of what the employer is seeking (e.g., specific
skills, years of experience and education).
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Incorporate these items into your letter, citing specific examples
of the desired qualifications that you possess. Space is limited, so
don't try to respond to each and every item on the list. Give the
reader enough information to whet his or her appetite, intriguing
them to go to the next step: reviewing your resume.
It's Not
About You
Well-written cover letters should emphasize what you can do for the
company, not what they can do for you. Within your letter, you should:
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Actively describe how you can help them meet their objectives
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Provide examples of some of your successful projects that are
similar to the ones listed in their posting
Remember that your goal is to illustrate how you can help them meet
their goals and objectives.
Sell, Sell,
Sell
This is not the time to be modest. Actively sell yourself. Tell the
company why they should hire you. Don't worry about being too
egotistical. Just make sure you are coming across as someone who is
confident and can do the job.
Simplicity
Works Best
Limit your cover letter to one page. Your goal should be three to five
paragraphs. Any more, and your letter and resume will surely wind up
in the "to be filed" pile.
Common
Errors to Avoid
Don't get thrown out of the game before it even starts. Here are some
common errors to avoid:
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Dear Sir.
As you know, many readers today are women. If you are unsure of
someone's gender, start your letter off with "Dear Hiring Manager."
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Spelling errors.
Take time to proofread your work. Spelling errors will almost
certainly cause your letter to be tossed aside.
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Grammatical errors.
This is a sure way to have your letter wind up in the wrong pile. If
need be, have a friend look over your letter to ensure that the
grammar is correct. (Note: Make sure it's someone who paid attention
in English class.)
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Too short and sweet.
"Hi - Here's my resume" just doesn't cut it. This type of letter
indicates laziness, which is not the impression you want to convey.
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Painfully long.
This is almost as bad as "short and sweet." Make it too long and
your letter will never be read.
Write a well-written cover letter and you will find that many more
doors will open for you. Yes, it does take a fair bit of time, but we
are talking about your career. Your future will hold several more job
changes if you learn the basics now. If you do, you'll have a much
easier time seeking employment in the future. |
