Resume Tips

Writing a Cover Letter

You cover letter should be written for each firm or position. Do not use a stock cover letter that says nothing; interviewers will see that. The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce yourself and briefly describe why you would be a good person to hire. Remember, the cover letter and resume describe how you can contribute to the company; that is, why do they want to call you in for an interview or even hire you.

• PROOFREAD, SPELL-CHECK, and GRAMMER-CHECK the letter BEFORE you send it to anyone
  • Poor grammer, spelling errors or references to another company show lack of attention to detail
  • Ask someone to read your cover letter (and resume) because he or she might see something you missed
• Get the hiring manager's name from the job description or the web site; avoid "Dear Sir or Madam" since it says you don't know them
• Include everything the employer asked for
  • Review the job description for the "job requirements" to be sure you meet all of them
  • Review any additional or optional "wants" from the employer to see if you meet any of them
  • Incorporate the "job requirements" and additional "wants" into the letter; you don't need to list them bullet for bullet, just include the important ones
  • Look for any application forms or other paperwork (proof of citizenship, etc) the employer requires to include everything with your submissio
• Do not send your cover letter or resume by e-mail unless explicitly directed to
  • Use standard mail so the interviewer has a clean printed copy
  • If using e-mail, create a PDF so you know how it will print
• Be professional at all times
  • Interviewers don't want to know detailed stories about your life, children, etc.
• There are lots of templates for cover letters, use one

If you work with a staffing company, they may help you write a cover letter or their relationship with the employer may eliminate the need for one.