A cover letter is as important and a perfect support to your CVÂ or resume. However, the cover letter is oftentimes ignored and taken for granted. The letter, which has evolved into an email in the modern world, is the front page of your CV thus it is the first being read.
This letter space gives you the opportunity to express additional details that are not included in sometimes complex written CV. Generally speaking, your cover letter and your CV will reveal yourself in the best manner. Therefore the difference of your achievement depends on how you properly prepared your cover letter, whether success or failure.
Reminder: The listed comments will basically fit in to most covering letters however there are other aspects that you should consider like making it a unique presentation to you and to whom you are going to send it. Most employers are already fed up with those generic formats and they feel disappointed with those mail merged letters being forwarded to several recipients with the company name only varied. Basically, make your letter more personal.
Step 1: It should begin with an address.
You start your letter with your address placed on the top right corner. Then the name and address of the prospective employer follow. Be sure to know exactly the person you are going to deal with in your application specially their title. You can confirm it through a brief check online or through enquiry by calling the company. There would be more of a personal approach if you address your letter to a real person than using the usual sir/madam.
The common cover letter has no required general format but it would make sense if you place your thoughts accordingly and avoid redundant mistakes that may confuse the reader. And even though you have more freedom to express in your cover letter than your CV, you should always consider some particular aspects such as conciseness, intelligence, and clarity.
You may find it a bit hard to start with the letter. On the other hand, you can make it simple and begin by telling them exactly your desire with direct to the point approach.
Step 2: Why is the job good for me?
After you have already expressed your intentions, it is now the right moment to tell your prospective employer the main reasons for your desire to have the job. During this stage, you have to be very specific. Aside form being motivated because of the compensation, try to say other aspects that appeal to you about that particular job. For instance, you might be applying to become a write at a newspaper with concentration on travel issues then try to merge the two together.
Step 3: Why do I fit for the job?
After you have expressed things of what attract you for the job, it is time to convince your reader that you deserve for the job. In this section of your letter, you list down your qualifications and strengths that are pertinent to the position. Consider the specific requirements listed on the job description and refer to these terms when telling about your capabilities.
You may have already mentioned some of these on your CV but you can expand them more clearly without unnecessary repetition. It is best when you express your strengths and achievements in real life approach. Like for example if you want to tell them that you are good in dealing with other people, state some evidence:
Always try to show to your reader something beneficial and unique. You can opt for your examples to supplement more skills that may not be straightforwardly appropriate. Bringing in skills like computer literacy or leadership skills can be a great idea. Present interesting examples that make you unique from others that are also applying for the job.
Step 4: Closing Remarks
Close your letter with the affirmation that you are available for an interview. If the starting date is not specified, it makes sense to tell your employer that you are ready to start as soon as possible. Provide contact information so that your employer can get in touch with you if necessary. Present your contact information at the top of the cover letter, and in your CV. If you opt to print your letter than send it though email, then affix your signature on it for an additional touch of professionalism.
By arranging thoughts of your cover letter in a highly organized way, you can clearly convey your intentions and the reasons why you are the best person for the job. Always remember that your presentation can make you or break you. An unorganized cover letter might give thought to the reader that you lack the organizational abilities and discipline that are essential for most modern jobs. Be reminded always that your covering letter expresses the first impressions of your employer about you.
And by the way, always anticipate what your employer might think about you as you prepare your cover letter.
Image by PeterSchofield, MacroMarcie
