What guidelines should be followed to organize an effective cover letter?

Answer 1

A cover letter is a summary of an applicant’s skills and qualifications. Many employers require job applicants to submit a cover letter (along with a resume and job application) when applying for a job. The purpose of a cover letter is to convince the potential employer that you are the right person for that position. Therefore, your cover letter should be professional, well-written and interesting. Read on to learn how to create an effective cover letter, so you can secure a job interview.

Header Section

The header of your cover letter should include your contact information, the employer’s name and contact details, the current date and the salutation.

For example:

Your Mailing Address

City, State, Zip Code

Phone Number

Current Date (Month, Day, Year)

Hiring Manager or Supervisor’s Name (if you have this information)

Job title

Name of Company or Organization

Mailing Address

City, State, Zip Code

Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. __________________:

(If you do not have a contact name, simply write “To Whom it May Concern.”)

Introduction Paragraph

In the first paragraph of your cover letter, you should introduce yourself to the potential employer. State your first and last name, the position you are applying for, why you are interested in that position and where you heard about the job opening. Limit your introduction paragraph to three sentences.

The Body of the Cover Letter

The body of the cover letter should consist of 2 to 3 paragraphs (5 to 6 sentences in each paragraph) and should highlight your relevant knowledge, work experience, strengths and accomplishments. Be specific about your work history and achievements, and only include information that pertains to the job that you are applying for. It is important to demonstrate to the potential employer that you have the appropriate skills, training and expertise needed for that job position.

Closing Paragraph

In the closing paragraph, request an interview from the potential employer and state when you are available to meet with him. You should also let the employer know how to contact you to schedule an interview. In addition, refer the employer to your resume to obtain additional information about your work experience, education and qualifications. Be sure to thank the employer for his time and consideration.

Additional Information

Try to keep your cover letter to one page in length.

Do not include any personal details in your cover letter, such as your age, ethnicity, marital status, etc. Close your letter with an appropriate phrase, such as “Sincerely” or “Respectfully Yours.” Don’t forget to sign your name below the closing phrase.

Answer 2

Many employers ask that you attach a cover letter with your resume. This short letter will help your potential employer get to know you better, and serves as a supplement to your full resume. Since this is the first thing an employer will see, the cover letter needs to catch someone's eye, or your resume may never be reviewed at all.

Spelling and Grammar

The spelling and grammar on your cover letter needs to be perfect. This means after you type it, you should read it a second time, step away for at least a few minutes, and then read it again. It's also a good idea to let a friend or family member with good writing skills look it over to catch any errors that you may have missed. Give it to someone that will be honest with you. Even one misspelled word might turn off a potential employer and prematurely thwart your chances at the job.

Length

Generally speaking, your cover letter should be short and sweet as opposed to long winded. While you want to give the company all of the useful information it needs to hire you, it's important to not include filler content that will only bore the person reading it. Keep your cover letter within a few paragraphs, and be very succinct so that you get out what you are trying to relay in as few words as is reasonable.

Content

Always read the instructions provided by the employer, when applicable. If the company wants you to include salary requirements, for instance, and you omit this information, you may be taken out of consideration before your resume is even reviewed. Always lead with a sentence that is catchy and intriguing, ideally something that speaks to your unique qualifications for the job. Explain why you are the perfect person to fill the position right off the bat and then give detailed examples to back up your statement.

Salutations

Whenever it's reasonable, you should address your cover letter to the person who will be actually reading it. This shows your attention to detail, and creates a relationship between you and a specific contact person at the company. After the main content of your cover letter, sign off by using a cheerful salutation, like "Kindest Regards," or "Best Wishes," followed by your full name.