A cover letter is a letter that accompanies your resume and introduces you, highlighting your reasons for sending the resume to the particular employer. A covering letter must accompany ALL non-electronic resume postings. For e-mail, you should substitute the cover letter with a short introduction in the body of the e-mail.
The prospect of getting a call for a job interview depends a lot on how you phrase your cover letter.
Tips to make the best impression with a power-packed one!
How to address the recipient
Address a specific recipient.
Inappropriate address:
“Dear Sir or Madam”
“To Whom It May Concern.”
This lazy approach will show that you were not concerned enough to find out whom to address your letter.
Appropriate address: “Dear ”
Paragraph 1- Opening – Tell why you are a Good Fit for that Job.
Weak opening: ‘I am writing today to apply for the account manager position you have posted on your company Website.’
Better opening: ‘I have increased the size and sales levels of my client base in every position I have held, which in turn has increased the revenues and profits of my employers. I want to bring this same success to the account position you have posted on your Website.’
Paragraph 2 -Synopsis
Make a mention of academic and professional experience relevant to the job. Ensure to stress accomplishments than job responsibilities.
Weak synopsis: ‘I have an MBA from XYZ Business School. I have completed my BE in the year 2007. I have worked as a Summer Trainee in ZBC Company for 2 months.’
Strong synopsis: ‘I have a formal training in business management with a keen interest in the area of Event Management. The exceptional organizational abilities and detail orientation I deployed to conduct college festivals at my college, are directly applicable to the skills needed for event management. With exposure to interacting with corporate for fund-raising, I can prospect new business opportunities, successfully manage client relationships, give presentations, and much more.’
Paragraph 3 – Relate
Tie yourself to the Job/Company. Echo the words and intent of the given vaccancy.
Weak relation: ‘I will like to apply for the job of Software Programmer in ABC Company.’
Strong relation: ‘I have a strong background in programming. I came across this opportunity with ABC Company and found it very exciting. It matches my interest and skills in the area of mobile computing and I can contribute to the success of the organization while pursuing my professional goals.’
Final Paragraph – A call to Action
You want to get an interview call. Come right out, ask for an interview and then follow up.
Weak call to action: ‘I hope you will consider my resume favorably and consider me for the position. I look forward to hearing from you.’
Strong call to action: ‘I look forward to being interviewed at your earliest convenience. Thank you so much for this opportunity. If you require any additional information, I can be contacted at the phone numbers listed above.’
A well thought-out dynamic cover letter can attract the employer’s attention and get your phone ringing!
