A well written cover letter can make the difference between landing a job interview or being rejected at the application stage. Whilst a resume lets the employer know what qualifications you have a cover letter explains what positions you are applying for and why you feel you are an ideal candidate. Most employers now ask you to provide a covering letter with your resume. When writing your letter consider the following:
Address your letter to a person
Make sure your letter is addressed to a real person. Don't use 'Dear Sir/Madam' or 'To Whom It May Concern'. You should be given this information with the job application details. If it isn't given, take the time to find out who to write to.
Keep it short and effective
An ideal cover letter should be one page in length so you need to keep your paragraphs short - 3 to 4 sentences in each one. Don't use long, unnecessary words and don't go into great detail about all your achievements.
Show how you are a match
Let the employer know how you can be of benefit to the company. Give examples of specific skills that they are looking for and demonstrate how you have used these skills previously.
Be confident
You need to come across as a capable, confident person, the kind of person that the employer is looking for. Choose strong effective words and avoid weak phrases like 'I feel', or 'I believe'.
End positively
End on a positive call to action. Let the employer know when you are available for interview. Make sure all your contact details are correct and easy to see on your letter.
Most employers place a great deal of importance on cover letters so take your time and make sure yours is perfect.
Good luck!
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