Many people overlook cover letters. They may even wonder if they really need one. So do you really need one? Of course! Cover letters not only tell the hiring manager what position he is applying for, but also provide the first impression of you and your skills. Use it to sell yourself and your skills. So how do you write an unforgettable cover letter?
Use a business writing style. That means using short words, short sentences, and short paragraphs. Make your writing clear, concise, and easy to understand.
Address your cover letter to a specific person. If you don’t know who the hiring manager is, find out before you send your letter and resume. The Internet is a wonderful tool that you have at your fingertips. Use it to your advantage!
Use the same high-quality paper that you write your resume on.
Stick to a single font and size. Use 10, 11, or 12 point Arial or Times New Roman font where possible; But definitely match the font on your cover letter to the font on your resume.
Tailor your cover letter to the specific job you are applying for. This is where he tells the hiring manager what job he is applying for, where he heard about the position, and why he is the best candidate for the job.
Have at least three body paragraphs; introduction, discussion and conclusion.
In your introduction, state the position you are applying for, explain how you found out, and ask for consideration for the position. It should be 2-3 sentences.
Your discussion paragraph consists of 3-5 sentences explaining how you are the best candidate for the job. Focus on skills, education, experience, and character. Mention the good things your managers and teachers have to say about you.
In your conclusion, repeat your interest in the position. Remind the reader of your contact information. You can tell them you’ll initiate follow-up (be sure to contact them if you say you will!). Thank the reader for their time.
Remember to sign it! Nine out of ten of my business students forget to sign their cover letters before handing them in. If you can’t remember to sign your name, how will you remember to do your homework at work?
Net! If you know someone who works for the company, mention their name in your cover letter. Be sure to ask them if it’s okay with them; but if it is, you should use as much as possible!
Use adjectives. This is your chance to use lots of specific adjectives to describe yourself. Combine them with the ones that appear in the job advertisement if possible. You are highly motivated, energetic, friendly, outgoing, etc.
Be courteous and friendly, but not casual. Remember that you are not writing a letter to your potential employer. They want to know that you will be a great employee, but also that you will be easy to work with. The attitude you present in your cover letter says a lot about you and your personality.
Check for spelling and typing errors. These errors are so easy to fix. However, unless you are an exceptional author, you will need to print your draft and edit it with a pen. Computers don’t know everything, and they won’t catch typos or other simple mistakes that make you look sloppy.