Job Search Letters
COVER LETTERS
When writing a cover letter, keep the following two things in mind:
- Write it for the reader
- Connect the dots
The most common mistakes people make in writing cover letters is
including every skill or quality (hoping something, anything
captures the reader's attention) and writing it for themselves instead
of tailoring the message to the reader. Secondly, people fail to
connect their experiences and skill sets to what the employer has
requested from applicants (as outlined in the job description).
While you might be tempted to create a generic letter that you send
to every employer, don't. Each employer is unique and
your cover letter can convey your understanding of the employer and
the position for which you're applying. Remember, the employer can
find more than one person with the skills they need for the job - what
they have trouble finding is someone who is truly interested in the
company and their position; an easy way to demonstrate that is to
tailor your cover letter to the reader!
Anatomy of a Cover Letter
A cover letter is typically four, brief paragraphs in length. The
challenge is to write something compelling using as few words as
possible. The cover letter is meant to support your marketing document
(your resume) but is also your opportunity to tailor your message to
meet the employer's needs and capture their attention. Following is an
outline of the four paragraphs with samples of each using the generic
job description provided above.
Paragraph 1
A brief introduction of who you are and the opportunity to which
you're applying (or, in the case of a cold letter, the opportunity
you're seeking). If a person who has some relevance to the reader
referred you, mention that person here (no name-dropping for the sake
of name-dropping, please). This is also where you can demonstrate
knowledge of the company or industry, presented in a compelling
manner. This is not where you communicate how you would benefit from
being employed by the company - the employer assumes you'll benefit by
their employment - rather; mention how your skills might benefit the
company.
Sample:
As a recent graduate of Delaware Valley College with a major in XYZ
and two years of internship experience in the XYZ industry (or company
name), I was excited to see your recent advertisement on DelVal
JobLink for XYZ (position title). I possess the skills you've outlined
in the description and have a strong interest in applying my skills to
benefit the company.
Paragraph 2 & 3
Time to connect the dots between the job description and your
experience. Analyze the description and review your outline of how
you've demonstrated the skill sought.
Sample:
During my recent internship with XYZ (company name) I worked
closely with the Account Services team tasked with tracking customer
satisfaction. I developed strong communication skills through my
direct interaction with customers, conducting face-to-face and phone
surveys. Additionally, I presented weekly updates to my manager and
the team in both writing and during staff meetings. I received
positive feedback from both customers and my manager and was
recognized by my employer for my strong contributions to the team.
While working 20 hours per week I carried a full-time course load
at Delaware Valley College and maintained a strong academic record,
earning Deans List for two semesters. I developed strong
organizational skills while in school allowing me to excel in my
academics, my internship and participate in student organizations
including A and B (organization names).
Paragraph 4
Close the letter with a summary and ask for an interview. Provide
contact information (in case your resume and letter are separated) and
mention follow up.
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