WHAT TO INCLUDE IN YOUR COVER LETTER
As is true of a resume, it is critical to create a new cover letter for each job that requires one. If a job posting does not specifically ask for a cover letter, do not go to the trouble of writing one.
A cover letter should always relate specifically to the job for which you are applying and to the skills you believe you will bring to it. In the case of most cover letters, the following elements should be included.
Contact Info:Don’t skip over this step! It is easy to forget, but it is important to make sure the hiring manager knows how to reach you. Include your full name, home address (including zip code), phone number, and email address. You can also include your LinkedIn web address if it is not already included in your resume.
Greeting:Your greeting should be short, professional and the foundation for a positive first impression. The most important part of the greeting is doing your research to find the hiring manager’s name. You should never say, “To Whom It May Concern” or just “Hi.”
Use the company website, LinkedIn or other social media resources to find the name of the hiring manager who posted the job. If you cannot find his or her name, call the office manager at the company and ask for it.
It is appropriate to greet them by their first name. For example, “Nancy,”.
Opening:The opening of your cover letter should be used to get the hiring manager’s attention and set yourself apart from the rest. Show your personality while remaining professional, and most of all, show them that you are passionate and knowledgeable about the work that you do.
In your cover letter’s opening, explain who you are as a professional as well as the skills relevant to the particular job. Relevance is key! Hiring managers often see generic cover letters, so show them you are serious by tailoring yours to the job and company.
Body:The body of your cover letter should not simply be a long form version of your resume work experience. In addition to including the most relevant hard skills found in the job description and your resume, expand on your experience with specific examples of professional success.
One of the best ways to sell yourself is by sharing measurable results. Explain what you’ve accomplished in your career and what you’ll do if hired. Percentages, dollar amounts, years, and other numerical values are the key to making the body of your cover letter work for you.
An example of a measurable result is, “While working for GMC, I grew the email subscriber base by 22% in two years.”
Closing:The goal of the closing is to be simple and informative. Inform the hiring manager of any attachments, online portfolios or samples included with your cover letter.
Many people use this opportunity to say something like, “I’m really looking forward to hearing back.” While it shows you are excited, phrases like this can also sound a little desperate. Try something like, “I’m looking forward to finding out if I’m a match for this position” as an alternative.
Finally, sign your name with something professional like “Sincerely,” “Best,” or “Yours.” If in an email, remember to include any necessary attachments at the bottom.
