Cover Letters

Location: On the Internet.

Prerequisites: The motivation to learn.

Required Text: None.

Objectives: Learn how to write effective cover letters.

A cover letter is the very first impression a potential employer will get of you. It’s therefore important to make sure your cover letter does its job and presents you in a professional manner. A cover letter generally falls into one of two categories: Either you’re responding to a specific job posting, or you’re sending a letter of inquiry regarding the possibility of a job opening.

You must always include a cover letter when you send a resume. The cover letter serves several purposes. First, it tells the reader why you are writing, specifying the position for which you’re applying if you’re responding to a job posting or expressing your interest if you’re sending a letter of inquiry.

You want your cover letter to serve as both an introduction to your resume and an impetus for the employer to read it. For that reason, your cover letter should target each particular employer and focus on what you can do for that company. Use the cover letter to highlight the parts of your background and experience that are most relevant to this particular employer. Even if the same information appears in your resume, you want to simply tell the employer from the start what you can bring to the position.

The cover letter should also reflect your attitude and personality to some extent. You want to appear professional, and you want to demonstrate that you have good communication skills. You also want the letter to indicate why you want this position and that you’re enthusiastic about the prospect of joining the company.

Finally, the letter should reference anything the job posting specifically requests or anything you’re sending along with the letter. For instance, if the job ad asks for a resume and work sample, indicate in the cover letter that you’re including those items. You should also indicate how and when you plan to follow up on the cover letter and resume.