Structure of a Cover Letter

Overview:

Here's what goes into a good cover letter.

Some Don't for Cover Letters:

1. Always tailor your cover letter to the specific job. Generic cover letters are completely ignored by employer especially the mid to small employers.

2. Never discuss what you WANT from the employer. Instead talk about what you CAN DO for the employer.

3. Never write about personal details such as your children, your hobbies, your family relations. Keep everything about the job and how you qualify.

4. Keep everything very succinct. Don't ramble.

5. If your cover letter isn't well edited with your spelling and grammar perfect, don't even bother to send it.

Description:

Cover Letter Structure

Date

Address

Salutation

Paragraph one: Mention the title of the job, where you heard of the opening (date and name of publication or Web site), and that your resume is included. Make a statement that you believe you are a strong candidate and/or include relevant facts from your research to demonstrate your specific interest and knowledge about the company.

Paragraph two: Briefly describe your professional background, focusing on specific skills, activities, accomplishments and experiences. Select several significant requirements from the ad and match your accomplishments, qualifications and experience to them, making sure the match between their stated needs and your qualifications is obvious. Consider using bullets to make them stand out.

Paragraph three: Optional additional information on your qualifications.

Paragraph four: Reinforce your qualifications and suggest next actions. Include your phone number or e-mail address. Thank the reader for his/her time and consideration.

Closing

Name

Enclosure

Submitted by:

Date added:

Tuesday, 23 Jun 2009