Which Kind of Cover Letter Will Work Best for Me

Cover letters can often be tough, as there are so many different kinds of cover letters and there’s so much integral information expected in them in a short, concise document. This is why so many of get intimidated by writing cover letters. The thing is, the more information that you can get on the subject-as is true in any situation-the better prepared you will be for creating a cover letter that is effective and successful. One of the first categories on the topic of cover letters is the different kinds of cover letters: what kinds are there and how do you know which one will work best for your situation? Below, we address how to identify which of the basic cover letters to use when applying for a job position.

Open Position
One of the most common ways that people use cover letters is to answer a job posting they have seen online or elsewhere. When an applicant sees a formal job opportunity that is being advertised, they should submit what is called a targeted cover letter. This kind of cover letter is specific to a particular position, and should also present itself in a manner that is specific not just in the job title and company in the job posting; but also the skills and experience requested in the advertisement as well. So, if the position for a job wants someone who is fluent in Spanish and is proficient in certain software-make sure to incorporate this information in this targeted cover letter.

No Advertised Position
If, on the other hand, there is a specific company that you are interested in working for; but they do not have any open positions advertised, you can still send them your interest and information, but in the form of a general cover letter. This kind of cover letter explains your interest in a company, what your skills set and experience is, as well as an inquiry for any positions that might match your qualifications and interest. Most often, this type of cover letter is put on file, until a position that suits the applicant comes about; or until someone leaves that department or requires help. It can always benefit a person to address a company even if no position is available at the time. This shows the company that you hold them in reverence, and hold them in your long term goals-as a company to work for.

A Friend of a Friend
A great position to be in when trying to get a particular job is to know someone who works there, or someone who knows the hiring team. This is where a recommendation cover letter can help out greatly to at least, getting you in for an interview. You might think that for this kind of approach, all you would need is a targeted cover letter; but it is actually more appropriate to use a recommendation cover letter. This type of cover letter conveys all the same basic information as regards your experience, skills, education, etc; but it also begins the address with a recommendation from your friend of a friend reference.

In Closing
If you are an applicant who has already finished their interview, and you are waiting either for another round of interviews for a position, or to get the job offer itself; you need to use a follow up cover letter. This kind of cover letter works a lot like a standard thank you letter or email that you may have been told to use after an interview, to better your chances of hire; but it also functions as the last effort to sell your skills and experience, and to remind the hiring manager of your candidacy and worth when it comes to the open position.