It isn’t always easy to find the right job in a poor economy, but it can be done if you know how to stand out over your competition. Including a cover letter with your resume can either make or break your chances of getting the job.
Avoid fancy, script like fonts. A cover letter is a business letter and it should look like one. Scripty letters are hard to read and give the impression that the author is more interested in fooling around than in the business at hand. Use a simple, easy to read font and put plenty of white space between the lines of text. Include a letterhead with your contact information, the date, and proper opening and closing.
Introduce yourself, but do it briefly. Your introduction can be incorporated into an objective statement, such as, “My name is Lisa Jones, and I am applying for the position of legal secretary.” Or, you could use your introductory statement to state your qualifications. For example: “My name is Lisa Jones, and I have 17 years of experience as a legal secretary.” In the following sentence, state your objective, which the specific job you are applying for.
The body of the letter should be short but informative. It should contain relevant information about your education, experience in the field and current employment, if it is related to the job you are applying for. Only mention hobbies or personal activities if they directly relate to or would contribute to your abilities in that particular line of work.
The closing statement should express absolute confidence and willingness to do the job exceptionally. For example: “I would welcome the opportunity to join your team, and I am confident that you would find me an asset to your company.” Finally, make yourself available, but don’t beg. “If you wish to meet me in person, contact me at your convenience for a personal interview.”
It’s a known fact that employers seldom read resumes thoroughly, but the right cover letter will grab their attention and compel them to read the attached resume more carefully, and you might find the right job sooner than you expected.
For more tips check out my new book:
How To Write A Cover Letter For A Job Application That Will Blow Their Mind