Wednesday, April 2, 2014

Cover Letters

Cover letters are a one-page additional supplement which allows you "to cover" or explain in detail everything you couldn't express in your CV or resume. 

To get started, consider the answers to the following questions before writing your cover letter:
  1. What is the title of the job for which you are applying and does it also have a reference number that you should include?
  2. What is the type of job or level of the position you are seeking?
    • "entry-level"
    • "management"
    • "senior level"
  3. What skills do you possess that you are not using enough in your current role? Also what opportunities are missing in your current role? The answers to these questions will help you explain why you are interested in leaving your current position. For example, are you looking for:
    • "room for advancement”
    • "an opportunity to learn new skills"
  4. What assets can you offer to the company? List a few in your cover letter, such as:
    • "extensive experience with start-ups"
    • "demonstrated ability to solve problems"
    •  “ability to manage teams"
  5. What will you help the company accomplish, if you get the  vacant position?
    • "meet its goal of providing only the best in customer service"
    • "expand its customer base and increase its revenue


One example Cover Letter is as follows:



The Basic Outline


Your letterhead should include your full name, address, telephone number, and email address.

  • Your name should be in bold 14- or 16-point font.
  • Your address and other contact information should be in normal 12-point font.
  • The font of your letterhead should be professional looking and easy to read. Example fonts could be Arial or Times New Roman

Write the recipient’s name and address and the date below the letterhead.

From here on out, use 12-point Arial or Times New Roman throughout the entire letter, set your margins to one inch, and use single spacing.


Address the recipient. Be sure to refer to the recipient by his or her proper title (Mrs., Mr., Dr., etc.). If you’re not sure who the recipient is, write, “To Whom It May Concern:” or “Dear Sir or Madam.”


Introduction. State your purpose in the first paragraph. Tell the employer why you are writing to them in two or three sentences. State the position for which you are applying and how you became aware of the position.



Outline your qualifications in the middle paragraph(s). Make sure to match them to the requirements of the position. Also make sure to include positive statements about yourself and your work.  



Make the closing paragraph between two to four sentences. Direct the employer to your enclosed resume and make sure you specify that you're available for an interview. Finish off by thanking the recruiter for his/her time and consideration.


Write an appropriate closing. It’s a good idea to thank the reader for his or her time. After that, write “Sincerely,” “Respectfully,” or “Regards,” leave several spaces, and type your name.


Add your signature. If you will be submitting your cover letter digitally, it’s a good idea to scan and add your signature




Tips:


  1. Spell-check
  2. Proofread
  3. Try to avoid the passive voice
  4. Avoid slang and colloquial expressions
  5. Make your points clear and concise, your cover letter should not exceed one page
  6. Personalize your cover letter for each position to which you are applying 


How to write a Cover Letter Video





The following information has been found on WikiHow to write a cover letter:
How to Write a Cover Letter


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