The last time you applied to a company did you also make sure to include a cover letter? A well-written cover letter gives you a chance to sell yourself to the employer in a conversational style manner and explain why you are the ideal candidate. Plus, by writing a cover letter you will make it clear that you truly want the job.
Now let’s help you write one!
-1- Address the beginning of the letter to a name and include a "Mr." or "Ms" before it. Avoid the bland "Dear Hiring Manager" or "To Whom It May Concern." Make it personal! Do a little searching and find the name of the person you will be sending this to.
-2- In the first paragraph provide a brief idea of who you are and tell the employer how you have learned about the opportunity. The opening paragraph should answer the following questions:
-Who are you? -Where does your expertise lie? -How did you learn about the position? -Why do you want to apply?
-3- The second paragraph is about what you bring to the table and why they should they choose you. Tell them why he/she should be interested in you! Do this by highlighting a few valuable points from your resume that match the job description. Ask yourself, what is it about your previous job experience skills and abilities that will meet the company's needs and make you a good fit? Make it unique to that company so do your research!
-4- Wrap it up with a call to action. What would you like to happen next? For example, you could say, "I have attached my resume for your consideration. I look forward to an opportunity to meet with you in person and discuss how my skills could contribute to the company's success."
-5- Close with a simple thank you at the end and then add your name.
Thank you,
(Your name)
-6- Be sure your contact information is on the cover letter as well. This should be at the top right of the page and include your name, email, and phone number. Essentially it is the same contact info that is on your resume!
Avoid sending the same cover letter to every company. They will know and your application won't be taken seriously. Always put your best foot forward.
If YOU are worth their time then make them worth yours!
Questions? Comment for some help! : )
Thank you
Thank you for this information.
Hi Ashley This is really informative. Hope it will work next time when I follow the same rules.
To whom my name is Mrs Shirley Garner I really would love to work with you all
Thank you for asking why I left my last job. I loved my job and being self-employed, however, now I would like to work with a well-respected company as a full-time employee who would receive benefits. As a self-employed individual I loved the work but missed having benefits. I want to continue helping patients and being able to make a difference in people’s lives.
How long should we wait before calling them or visiting store to see if theybevreached a decision? When I go back to try and see resume cover etc I can't bring them up at times and I freak out as have laboriously written good stuff.
Thank you for your kind words and encouragement. At my age , I am running into closed doors as well as minds. I have a lot to bring to s team and am still learning myself. This never stops it is what we do . Keeps us young and spirited. I have to work as my benefits are just not covering rent and bills and I am not ready for the retirement pasture.i am not a quitter but it is a challenge to keep forging ahead. Your cheering us all. Onward is most helpful. Easy to see what a caring individual you are.
Thanks for the great information on "COVER LETTERS" With a Great OPENING LETTER, that will catch the employers ATTENTION Very Quickly. It shows that you take the Time & Interest in applying for that particular job. More importantly, it gives them The REASON to give more details of reading YOUR Resume. Good Luck to ALL of You.
Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Thank you