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The Art of Cover Letter Writing

Writing a cover letter may seem like a tedious or unimportant aspect of the job search, but it can be the one thing that sets you apart from the competition. The cover letter is meant to be a brief introduction of you to the company you want to work for - shouldn't that introduction be as pleasant and memorable as possible?

Cover letters bring out your personality and expand your resume. Your resume could be seen as a complimentary piece of the cover letter. Let the cover letter draw the interest of your potential employer by showing who you are; however, remember who your audience is. If you are applying to a company like Patagonia, who train their employees on non-violent resistance, you can probably be less traditional and more creative with your style and tone. If it is a traditional Fortune 500 Company, your style of writing should reflect a more corporate audience. Hopefully regardless of the company you target, you are applying to organizations that you have researched well and have a need for your unique background and skills.

Formatting
The paper and print should be consistent with your resume and free from errors of any sort. The letter should be about a page and include a standard, professional heading and footing (i.e. address stamps, enclosure, etc.). That leaves about three or four brief paragraphs to introduce yourself and summarize how your skills can benefit the employer. In preparing a cover letter, try not to address "Human Resources." Do proper research on the company (even if it means calling the company direct) and address the letter to a person.

Opening
Like writing a short argument piece, the opening should tell the reader why they are reading your letter. The opening paragraph should include the position you are applying for, how you learned of the position, and include reasons for your interest in the organization. If a contact suggested that you apply, include that information in the opening paragraph. Or if you know someone who works at the company, highlight that as well - it may tip the scale and help you to the next round.

Body
In the body of the letter it is important to illustrate why you are the person for the job. This area should highlight your key skills in relevance to the company and position you are applying for. Try to write a paragraph outlining one or two specific examples of how your skills and experience will fit the company's needs. If you are a recent graduate, you may include information about your school and its emphasis (i.e. liberal arts, medicine, law). This area should not simply restate your resume, but provide the reader with more insight to your personality and value you can bring to the company.

You also want the reader to know that you are excited about the possibility of working with the organization. Explain that you would be a positive addition who is looking forward to the direction the company is headed. A genuine show of motivation and knowledge will set you apart from candidates sending generic form letters.

Closing
The closing paragraph should be brief, not more than two or three sentences. It should state your appreciation of the reader's time and inform that you will contact him or her shortly (usually within a week) to check on the hiring status or to arrange an interview. It is important not to sound too presumptuous or your potential employer might be turned off. Grace is hard to produce, but worth the struggle.

End with a pleasant salutation consistent with the rest of your letter. Sincerely should work in most cases. Always hand sign your signature, as it is a personal touch and shows respect to the company.

And remember, you only get one first impression - make the best of it.

Cover Letter Examples