How to Write a Cover Letter
The following is a step by step guide on How to Write a Cover Letter
When applying for a job, it is essential that you know how to write a cover letter. Most employers’ today desire a cover letter be included with your resume, so that they can quickly scan a brief overview of your knowledge. This article will go in to detail about how to write a cover letter, so that you can make a great first impression on a potential employer.
It is important that you write a separate cover letter for each employer, targeting your information to the position you are applying for with that particular company.
How to write a cover letter
1. Use white or ivory colored paper only. When writing a cover letter, it is essential that you keep it clean and professional looking. Do not use paper that has borders, and use simple, clean fonts that are easy to read.
2. Next comes your name and contact information. At the right hand side of the page, include your name, address, and contact information including phone number and e-mail address. Include the date immediately following this information.
3. Address your cover letter. Following your own information, place the name, title and address of the person you are sending the cover letter to at the left-hand margin. This should include their first and last name if possible, along with company name and address.
4. Writing your salutation. Now you are ready to begin your letter, which starts with the salutation. This should begin with a "Mr." or "Ms.", unless you know for certain that the woman is a "Mrs." or "Miss". Get first and last names whenever possible, as it is unprofessional to use "to whom it may concern" in a cover letter.
5. Begin writing the body of your cover letter. Skip a line, and then begin writing the body. Do not indent; simply skip a line between paragraphs. In your cover letter, you want to describe briefly the skills and qualifications that make you the perfect candidate for the job.
Use action verbs to demonstrate your abilities when possible, and never go in to why you are leaving your current job; instead, briefly explain why you desire the job you are applying for.
6. Sign off. Upon completing your cover letter, skip two lines and type your ending signature. This is usually "Sincerely" or "Yours Truly". Skip another two to three lines and type your name, then sign in the space in your own handwriting.
Additional tips for writing a cover letter
It is most effective to include 3 to 4 paragraphs in the body of your cover letter. The first paragraph should explain who you are and the reason you are writing. In the second paragraph, briefly describe your skills and qualifications, mentioning only the information that may impact that particular company and position.
The third paragraph will describe briefly how you will be an asset to the company. In the final paragraph, request an interview and express your desire for the company to contact you regarding the position.
The tips above describe how to write a cover letter that will make you stand apart from other applicants, putting you at the top of the list of likely job candidates.
