Starting the process of job searching can be a intimidating experience. Job searching equates to starting a process in your life where you are entering something foreign. For the most part you will hear about the significance of having a well-manicured resume. Although this is important, remember that your resume will not get looked at unless you have an articulate and influential cover letter.
Included are some tips that will help you write a cover letter. Hopefully, these tips will increase your chances of receiving your next job.
Your cover letter should always be sent in with your resume. This is your first chance to validate your writing skills, aptitude and managerial skills. The overall goal needs to explain why you are fascinated in this job as well as what skills you can offer your new employer.
BreakingDown Your Cover Letter
Initial Paragraph “Attention Grabber”
When you are first introduced to a person you always have a first impression. Think of this paragraph as the first impression you want to leave. First and most importantly be authentic! Describe how you found out about the job and why you are attracted to the position. Although this is the first paragraph, do not wait to start promoting yourself. Use specific examples of how your skills will promote this company. However, don’t just list what jobs you have done in the past. That is for your resume. This is your chance to share how those past jobs will benefit you entering this work environment.
Second paragraph The “Must Call” Paragraph
In your pervious paragraph you articulated interest in the position and gave a nice first impression of who you are. Now you have got to get the employer to pick up the phone and call you for an interview. This is the paragraph where you give explicit examples of why you should get this job. For example, what success have you had in a pervious work situation, what skills do you have and how will they benefit this new employer. Your “attention grabbing” paragraph should focus more on your image as a person; this should focus on your image as an employee.
Here are some simple tips. Remember to include details. Everyone can be a “hard worker,” but giving an examples of being a hard worker is much more important. This goes for all-purpose categories, “a leader,” a “motivated” employee. Give examples!
Next, don’t replicate your resume. Share what you learned and how it will benefit you. Don’t just repeat what they will see when they flip the page.
Even if you are just out of school and starting your first job, sound confident. Focus on what skills you already have, NOT what you expect to learn. This implies that you will need to be coached. Employers want to higher a person to do the job, not educate a person to do the job.
Finally, share experiences that will help in all areas of the company. Perhaps you have strong writing skills, but are also affable. These traits make you look well rounded.
Paragraph 3
“Seal the Deal”
This should be the briefest part of your cover letter. This is where you take one last sentence to communicate why you are attracted to this job. Convey your interest for meeting in person for an interview. Finally, end with a thank you statement for taking the time to evaluate your cover letter and resume. Finish with a sentence about how you look forward to hearing from them.
If you follow these simple tips you will have a better chance at getting your foot in the door for an interview. If you are still stressed to write your cover letter and resume please visit www.coverletterresources.com you will find a link to a wide range of resources that will not cost you a lot of money, but will help you with this process. Well worth their wait in gold.
Good luck!
