Writing a Cover LetterWriting a cover letter is your first step toward making that positive first impression on a potential employer. Yet focusing solely on resume writing will minimize your chances of standing out from the crowd. If your cover letter does not connect with your potential employer, you may not get the job. Outside the Box Tips for Writing a Cover Letter The first thing to remember is to be a learner. Learn about the company you are applying to. What type of services do they offer? Do you believe in their mission statement? Is the company a good fit emotionally and professionally? Will it be a place you will feel good contributing your talents? After you have learned all about the company, begin writing the cover letter. Connect with your potential employer by showing him or her that you are familiar with the company and its goals. Explain in detail what you can offer. In bullet format, list your talents as they relate to the job and below the list, add the benefits your services will provide. Be brief and to the point. Employers are not interested nor do they have time to read an autobiography. Before you submit your cover letter and resume, first inquire to whom you should address the letter. Avoid making the mistake of putting a blank line in place of the addressee’s name. Your potential employer will know that you have prepared a form letter. Even if you are submitting to more than one company, make your cover letter sound as if you wrote it specifically for the company you are applying to and in particular, to the individual responsible for hiring. You won’t catch the attention of employers by using fancy fonts or other non-professional formats. Your cover letter is a business document, and should be written and presented in a formal manner. Use black ink on white paper with your name and address as your letterhead. Avoid Repetition Don't repeat what you wrote in your resume. Also, don’t explain why you left a previous position, or why you are seeking a new one. Focus on the positive and answer the following:
Find out the best way to submit your cover letter and resume. You may want to visit the company to introduce yourself and present your resume personally. You only have a few minutes to make a good first impression. Your cover letter is your most important tool to help you acquire new employment.
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