6 Cover Letter Writing Tips That Get Results

It’s usually not a good idea to send a resume to someone blindly. A more effective method is to provide a cover letter along with it. Depending on your circumstances, the cover letter would explain your situation and ask the recipient for a specific action.

Writing a cover letter is not a one and done method. You will need to personalize it for every situation (more on this later). A cover letter should be only 1 page in length and get straight to the point.

Many people wonder if they can send an e-mail version of the cover letter in the body of the email. Yes, that can work only if it is not too lengthy. While it is okay to use a sample cover letter to write a cover letter for yourself, you still want to make it your own.

Cover letters do not have to be complicated if you know what you are trying to accomplish. Here are a few cover letter writing tips that get results.

6 Cover Letter Writing Tips That Get Results

Write to a Specific Person

“To whom it may concern” and other similar openings are too impersonal. Find out who the hiring manager is by calling the company and asking. Or do some research on their website.

Be Precise

Misspell names or use incorrect job titles, and you’ll create a bad first impression. Do your homework and put forth the extra effort. Again, you can verify the correct spelling of a name and other details by calling the company.

Personalize Your Letter

Computer-generated cover letters that automatically insert a name don’t fool anyone, and they can be a turnoff. Target your mailings to a select group of prospective employers by tailoring a cover letter to each recipient.

Use a Friendly Opening

If you’ve had prior contact with this hiring manager, begin with this reminder. If not, then begin by stating the reason for your letter. For instance:

“I am interested in the position of Regional Sales Manager, which you recently advertised in the Retail Sales and Marketing newsletter.”

Target Your Skills and Experience

You need to know something about the company or the person you’re dealing with. With this knowledge, you can present the relevant skills and experience you have that may be of interest to the employer. For instance:

“I am very familiar with your organization’s innovative marketing techniques, as well as your unique policy in promoting environmentally sound products. I have been active in environmental protection projects myself, both as an employee of my previous company and on my own. I recently introduced a new line of office products that exceeds federal standards, is environmentally safe, and selling well”

Close with an Action Statement

Clearly identify what you’ll do next. Don’t leave it up to the employer to contact you. Be proactive. Close on a positive note, and let the employer know that you’ll be contacting them soon. For instance:

“The enclosed resume outlines my skills and experience in sales and marketing. I would like to meet with you to discuss how my experience would benefit California Office Products. I will contact you soon to request an interview for current or future positions.”

These are the basics of writing an effective cover letter. Use these cover letter tips, and you’ll be on your way to getting that job you want.

Article By:

Darren loves to help people learn business skills that they can use to better their lives. Check out his blog at Gain Business Skills and get free updates via his RSS feed.

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