Job Searching Advice: Cover Letters: Add a Personal Touch
written by Marissa Virtusio
A cover letter. What is it ?
Sometimes, we call it an application letter. In your job search, a cover letter introduces your resume (Neile,1991). Is it needed? Well, in "Resumes for Hard Times" Bob Weinstein remarks that "you can get away without one" but enclosing a cover letter is adding the right professional touch. In today's competitive world, professionalism can indeed make a difference.
In this regard, I highly recommend Caren Neile's Tips for Winsome Cover Letters which are as follows:
· Custom-fit your cover letter to the specific job or company with your background in mind.
· Open with a convincing lead. Make the employer's day by writing opening lines that stand out - but don't overdo it.
· Manifest your skill in research. If you are replying to an ad, why not use some of the words or phrases the company has mentioned?—like "industrious", "hardworking". Make sure you have researched about the company, its needs, the needed job responsibilities, and how your skills and experience will make a good match to it.
· Hit the mark by targeting the letter to the right person. Don't risk ignoring or insulting a female employer by writing "Dear Sir" or "Gentlemen". "Dear Sir or Madam" will do if you can't get any name. Remember, you should get the information right : the address, the spelling of the person's name, the company name, the job title you're applying for and that of the person you're writing to. Be brief and concise. Let your resume speak more for you.
· Proofread and ask somebody to check for typographical errors.
· Your cover letter as well as your resume should have the same type paper and envelope. No flower-designed stationeries, please. Standard, matching paper presents a professional look.
· By all means, type (don't hand-write) the letter and use correct business-letter form.
Type an original cover letter or application letter for each resume you send. It may take a good part of your time but it's worth it.
· Don't be too personal, intimate, or sweet. Polite and professional is the secret.
· Use blue or black ink in signing your name and leave out the loops and squiggles.
· As you end your letter, leave one space after your typed name and type "Enc." at the left margin to notify that you have attached an enclosure, i.e., your resume together with the letter.
So, here's A Sample Cover Letter
(Courtesy of How to Get a New Job and Earn what You're Really Worth)
Your Address
City, State, Zip
Telephone Number
Date
Name Of Employer or Personnel (HR) Manager
Title of Employer or Personnel (HR) Manager
Name of Organization
Street Address
City, State, Zip
Dear Name of Employer or HR Manager:
Paragraph One: Introduce the purpose for mailing your resume (like you want to apply for the position the company has advertised). State the source used—such as a classified ad, recruiter, friend, and of course, a web site like trabaho.com. If you want to drop someone's name, check first if it's okay and research about the person's credibility and reputation in the company.
Paragraph Two: Describe yourself briefly with regards to your current job, education, willingness to relocate, etc.
Paragraph Three: Expound a little bit more about your contribution to your field, as far as experience, enthusiasm, education, or expertise.
Paragraph Four: Politely request a date for an interview. If there's a need for you to travel, recommend a time span during which you'll be able to do so. Reiterate your interest in the company.
Sincerely OR Very truly yours,
Your Signature
Your Typed Name
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Reference: Neile, Caren (1991). How to Get a New Job and Earn What You're ReallyWorth. USA: Globe Communications Corp. |
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