Cover letters from scratch
In a job hunt, a considerable amount of effort should be put into choosing an appropriate type of the cover letter. Your next step in this direction depends on what you are looking for: an application or a search assistance. There are letters, composed exclusively to help with the search, and ones, aimed to impress an employer directly.
Types of letters and specification
To write an outstanding cover letter, you should follow a specific structure, which generally includes a salutation section, your qualifications and a polite sign off. We cannot say this is a universal tip for job hunters across the world, as hiring managers may have other requirements on mind, but the mentioned information should be sufficient for a start.
Individual customizing
There are no small choices when it comes to writing a cover letter, and every word matters. For a start, you should know the letter is usually accompanied by a resume, and can earn you extra points for being sharp and witty.
Each cover letter that you write has to be individually customized to exceed the manager’s expectations. It also has to be tailored according to the job description.
Make sure your descriptions are clear and concise. If you are specific about your objectives and motivations, the hiring manager will see your determination and eventually choose you. Do not be afraid to include the latest achievements and career accomplishments, as they can make a difference in the selection process.
Parts of the cover letter
A cover letter includes three parts that define the general structure and are as follows:
- Salutation. Whether you work with the hard copy of the letter or send it by e-mail, you have to pay attention to greetings. A formal salutation is going to show your enthusiasm and readiness to cooperate with the employer.
- In the body of the cover letter, you provide the manager with the reasons you decided to apply for a job. You should also include a respectable amount of personal information, like what you have to offer to the company of your dreams and the follow-up activities as well.
- Sign-off. Cover letter closings should be professional and friendly. Find the sample of the appropriate sign-off and treat your future employer with respect. You don’t have to be overly wordy or beat around the bush too much, just ensure you sound polite and respectful to the hiring manager.
E-mail checklists
Before you send a cover letter to your employer, check it twice to make sure it’s grammar-free. Next, read the job ad and the description to get a clear impression of the company’s requirements. Edit the cover letter to match the requirements, if necessary. There is nothing wrong in skipping one piece of information or the other for the sake of clear formatting.
You should follow the employer’s guidelines and start a correspondence if there are issues that need to be set between you and the management. In case you are confused about the introduction or a sign-off, read this checklist and contact the interviewer to get a grip on the details. You can practice by creating your own cover letters and storing them on your computer.
Take the time to know the company you are applying to, their rules and regulations. Talking to a manager may prove to be beneficial, as you will have to contact the employees sooner or later to get what you need. Personalizing is another key point, as you address the person directly and use names instead of generic and gender-neutral constructions. Remember to thank your hiring managers for being patient enough to read your letter and respond to it according to the company’s standards.