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Cover letter
A cover letter is your chance to explain to an employer why he
or she should consider you for the job. In other words, your cover letter is a
targeted sales tool which should be tailored to the specific position you are
seeking.
The cover letter is also a good opportunity to show potential employers your
writing skills, and for those job-seekers whose native language is not English,
a chance to show that you are comfortable with the language.
A typical Cover Letter includes three basic parts:
Paragraph 1 - self
introduction & interest statement: In this part, you introduce who you
are; how you heard of the position or the company; why you are writing. The goal
in this paragraph is to convince the recruiter why you are the candidate to be
invited to the interview.
Paragraph 2 - value
matching. In this part you discuss your experiences and skills that
match the criteria for the position: why you are interested in the position
and/or company; how your qualifications fit the specific skills needed for the
job; some specific examples of how your past experience has prepared you to do
the job for which you are applying; any other relevant skills, qualities,
achievements, and experiences that make you the best candidate for the job.
Paragraph 3 - asking
for consideration. This is the closing part of the letter. In this part,
you repeat that you are hoping to be considered for the job; thank the employer
for his or her consideration. As the closing, put "Sincerely" or "Sincerely
Yours" with your typed name and signature.
DOs...
- In the first
paragraph, name the title of the job for which you are applying and be specific
about how you heard about the position or company.
- Try to find out
the name and title of the person who will be able to hire you and use the name,
instead of writing "Dear Sir" or "Dear Madam."
- Write the letter
based on exactly what the ad or job listing says the employer is looking for;
try to give an example from your experience for every qualification listed in
the ad.
- Don't forget to
sign your name.
- Reread the letter
carefully and check for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. It's a good
idea to have someone else proofread the letter as well.
- Keep the letter
brief--under 1 page. Keep the paragraphs to 2-4 sentences each.
- Say that you are
enclosing a resume.
- Include your phone
number in the last paragraph.
- Make sure the
envelope is clearly and properly addressed.
DON'Ts...
- Send a resume without a cover letter.
- Discuss salary unless the ad or job listing
requires it.
- Repeat information that appears on the resume,
except in the briefest, introductory manner.
- Generalize about personal qualities or past job
titles. Instead, give specifics about your skills and experience.
- Talk about what the job will do for you.
- Give unnecessary personal information.
- Include anything that you will not be able to
explain in an interview.
A sample of Cover Letter
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