How To Compose A Cover Letter For A Resume
How do you compose a cover letter for a resume? People approach the topic of cover letter in many different ways, but how they do-typically means the difference between getting an interview or getting passed on by. Yes… the cover letter carries that much weight in the application process, and if this is the first you’ve heard of this-you’re likely not composing your cover letter in the right way either. Do not despair, as many people do not understand the purpose the cover letter serves an employer, and thus, do not create one that is successful in getting positive feedback. Here’s how you need to compose your cover letter the right way to get an interview.
Once upon a time, the cover letter was just a means of introduction of the applicant and what job they were applying to, and that they had attached their resume. It was for the purpose of the resume. Today, in many cases, it is more important than the resume, at least in the beginning stages of application. This is because employers and hiring managers have less time to review 1-3 page resumes, and need a quick way to review thousands of applicant’s qualifications conveniently. This is the purpose the cover letter serves. Few people know it, but many employers and hiring managers actually review the cover letter, and based upon the information listed there; either read or throw away the resume unread. This is why you have to make your cover letter count. Here’s how to do it:
Know the Information That Should Be Included:
The first step in accurately composing a cover letter is to know what information should be in your cover letter, and start formulating how you will put it together. What is this information? You should have your name, the job to which you are applying, and why you are interested in the position. Moreover, you should give an overview of your career qualifications in quantifiable means-where applicable-as well as why this makes you the best candidate for the position. Lastly, you should have a means of contacting you conveniently. Make sure to get all of this information together, and prepare to start shaping it into a short letter.
Keep It to Paragraph Format:
Next, you need to know how many paragraphs should be included in your cover letter, and what each paragraph contains in the way of your information. There is a very basic and definite structure to a standard cover letter, and knowing it is key to creating a cover letter that sells you a possible candidate for a position. Here is a brief breakdown of the paragraph structure:
• Paragraph 1: Should include your full name, the position that you are applying for, and why you are interested in this position.
• Paragraph 2/3: Should include your years of experience in your career, special skills, highlighted achievements in your career, and why you are the best candidate for the position.
• Paragraph 4: Should thank them for their time, give them a means of contacting you, and any other final words.
Be Concise:
Though your cover letter should review your most compelling career qualifications and history information, it should not repeat everything stated in your resume. This means you need to keep it concise. Anything longer than ¾ of a page will force a hiring manager or employer to pass your application on by. They want to see what you have to offer in a matter of seconds. If it takes longer to get this information, they will likely grow impatient and move on. This means really being able to sell yourself with the right wording and most important qualifications in a short amount of space-which is often a lot harder than writing a resume.
Here is the basic structure of what a professional cover letter should look like:
Sarah Watters:
45 Jones Street
Miami, FL 44532
(999)999-9999
sarahwatters@emailaddress.com
June 4, 2008
Mr. Jim Thomas
Greg and Greg Advertising
345A Houston Avenue
Miami, FL 44532
(999)999-9999
Dear Mr. Thomas,
My name is Sarah Watters, and I write to introduce my candidacy for the position of Administrative Assistant for Greg and Greg Advertising. I have included all requested documents, and am very excited to address you with this interest.
Briefly, I have over six years working as a professional Administrative Assistant for both the City Manager of Miami; as well as that of Hiring International’s Miami office. I am proficient in handling fast paced, multitasking environments which require me to communicate with hundreds of personnel and customers in a day, and keep all office procedure on track for the professional(s) I serve. I can type 80wpm and am well versed in all office programs that would be required of me.
I would make the best candidate for your position of Administrative Assistant as I bring a number of years of hands on experience working in highly demanding work environments, and requiring large amounts of responsibilities. I have exceptional organizational, communications, and multitasking skills and always get the task or project completed on time and in perfect condition. I take pride in my work, and I know Greg and Greg Advertising would take pride in it as well.
I am available at the following phone number: (999)999-9999, and would welcome the opportunity to discuss my career qualifications further, at your convenience. Thanks so much for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Sarah Watters
