What Is A Cover Letter

What Is A Cover Letter - Posted by https://www.market-connections.net

Resume Writing Ideas September 29, 2020

What Is A Cover Letter

What Is A Cover Letter

• A cover letter is a tool to use when you want to impress and leave that "first impression" behind.  Every resume should be sent or presented alongside a cover letter. 
• The cover letter is regarded as the "Introductory Step" and should be treated with the respect that it deserves and not be overlooked. 

How To Address A Cover Letter

• To address the cover letter, use a salutation like "Dear Sir/Madam". But if you do have the name of the recipient in HR, please be sure to personalize your cover letter

How To Start A Cover Letter

• Put your name and contact information at the top of the page. 
  
• Make your name large and bold enough to be easily read. 
  
• Be sure to include your city, zip code, phone number and email address. Since the cover letter is a condensed version of your resume you can make the print large enough to be easily read.

What To Put In A Cover Letter

• Start the letter with a compelling sentence.  Try to think of something to grab the attention of the reader.  You may want to try to establish a connection with the person here.  Alternatively, you could use a quote or a question.  While you may be tempted to be witty try to avoid coming off as obnoxious or too cute.  That will get your cover letter in the trash can. 
• Include the title of the position you are applying for.  Often the company has more than one job opening and you need to be specific. 
• The middle of the cover letter should be one or two short paragraphs that make relevant statements about your qualifications.  Try not to just summarize your resume but instead use relevant and interesting facts about you that are drawn from your resume.  ​

How To End A Cover Letter

• The last paragraph of the cover letter should be a call to action or an explanation of your next action.  For example you may want to include asking the person to contact you to arrange an interview or state that you will call to confirm receipt of the resume. 
• Close the letter with "Sincerely yours" and your name.  Type your name with a space above where you can sign it.  At the bottom type the words  "enclosure: resume"​