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Cover Letter Tips |
| by Webmaster - 12/07/2007 |
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| "The purpose of the cover letter is to act as an introductory agent for your resume." |
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It also allows you to convey information about yourself that should be given but not necessarily belong in a resume.
Simply put, your letters should tell the reader why you are writing, what position you are applying for, what you have to offer, and why this organization is of interest to you. You should close by advising them of your intention to call them in several days, to arrange further discussion of employment opportunities.
Your letter should always be addressed to a particular person. This person should have decision-making power and be in your area of expertise. It should never be addressed as “Dear Sir/Madam or To Whom It May Concern”. Both salutations allow for a greater chance of your materials never reaching the intended addressee. Of course, there will always be situations when regardless of how diligent you are in your research, you will turn up zero in the specific name category. Try addressing a particular individual’s function (i.e. “Attention: Recruiting Manager”).
Why are you writing - Let the reader know what has prompted you to communicate with them. Was it something you read or heard, if so, paraphrase the content. If your correspondence is in regards to an advertisement, clearly indicate what position you are applying for and where the advertisement was found.
What do you have to offer - Specify special skills, training, or educational experience that may increase the reader’s interest in you. Cite a particular example of a recent accomplishment in a way that will wet the reader’s appetite and help him/her see the benefits that you can bring to the company.
Why is this organization of interest to you - Here is an opportunity for you to tell them where your special skills can best be put to use. Through the use of words, create a picture that will actually assist the reader in imagining you as a member of their team.
The close - This area provides the writer with an opportunity to control further communication and follow through between the writer and the recipient. Always make certain to request an interview. Give an approximate time in which you will contact the company. Never ask them to contact you at their convenience (with exception to executive recruiters and blind ads). Although a cover letter is not intended to land you the job, it most definitely can either increase or hurt you chances of your resume being read.
Used with permission from www.CareerSoar.com copyright www.CareerSoar.com |
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