Cover Letters for Resumes
Most people forget the very important fact that its excellent cover letters, not resumes that are the most beneficial to landing the almighty job interview. Well written cover letters for resumes will greatly increase your chances of being called for that “perfect” job interview or even the that highly sought after position – the one that will pay the bills!
How does one write those cover letters for resumes that rise above the other competition vying for the same positions in the job market? It is crucial to understand you will be writing more than one depending on the number of jobs for which you apply. And each one should be unique to the position and company to which you are applying. Next, there are specific rules of thumb you will want to follow. A checklist of sorts on what to do and Not to do. Use it as your guide for any cover letters for resumes you send out.
What to do:
Visit the website of the company – investigate recent news, the company’s profile and name of the person you want to contact. Research and learn as much as you can about the position for which you want to apply. This critical step will put you way ahead on its own. Use the first paragraph to effectively sell your qualifications and why you are an excellent fit for their needs. Respond to the job requirements and the job listing accurately and clearly. Describe how you can contribute to the company’s bottom line (their goals or mission). Send the original letter, not a copy, and always sign your name in blue ink. Request an interview and let them know that you will contact the company to follow up. Always use white standard “letter” sheet or A4 size paper. Always use direct, clear language in simple sentence structures and keep the letter to a single page. Provide a professional email address (i.e. – one that will not make a bad impression) and a daytime phone number that potential employers can readily reach you. You want to be ready when they are!
What Not to do:
Do not send a resume without a cover letter(obvious, I know, but you would be surprised). Never address the letter to some generic person or title – e.g. the “Manager” or “To Whom It May Concern.” Always put it to the attention of the indvidual name of a person or functional manager rather than Human Resources manager. Do not send a letter with punctuation, spelling and grammatical errors. Get someone else to edit your letter if necessary. Do not add “filler” to take extra space in your cover letters – keep it to the point. Do not send a generic letter to different employers. As I stated above, the letter must be tailored to a specific job and company. Avoid fancy styles or unorthodox formats. Write your letter using a professional and formal format with easy to read fonts and font sizes. Remember, this is not a creative writing contest, this is for a job.
