When it comes to cover letters, there are some that would prefer to create a resume and end right there. The resume may list all of your experiences, employment and credibility, but it doesn't get to the meat of the story. Let's face it, there's a story behind your college major (why you chose to study it), your experience (How it will help you in what your applying for), and even awards/honors (Possibly one award of great significance). When applying for a brand new position, you want to make sure that you stand out among the thousands of applicants.
Here's how to write a cover letter that sells YOU:
Create a letterhead
There's nothing like creativity and a little dash of color to a page of black and white. Creating your own personal Letterhead will give employers the impression that you mean business and want them to take you seriously. Using an existing template is fine as well. Be sure it includes your name, address, phone number, e-mail and website (if you have one). Letterheads are convenient because you'll have all this information right there each time you need to compose a new letter.
Match keywords
In order to write an impressive cover letter [and resume, as well], you have to understand how the employer is using them. Remember, people will read your cover letter more than once, but the first time will be a skim-read. This is important because you want to you the right keywords to grab their attention immediately. You may not realize it, but the employer gives you the answers in the JOB DESCRIPTION! Grab your highlighter and highlight important words under the Description, Primary Responsibilities, and Job Requirements--Words that you can incorporate in your cover letter to show yourself worthy of the job.
Avoid the standard "To Whom It May Concern" or "Dear Human Resources"
Do your research and address their full name if possible! This will show that you are not lazy and will actually go out of your way to make sure that you are as personal in the introduction as possible.
Keep it short
For the avid writers out there or those who just can't help it... it may be a little hard to keep from writing two-page cover letter. Experience and detail is nice but you also don't want to bore the reader with too much fluff. Stick to the most important key points that will matter to the company you are applying for... not just what matters to YOU.
...But not too short.
Keep it short, but that doesn't mean writing a single paragraph! There are many who have A LOT of experience, have been involved in numerous efforts and/or have made an outstanding impact in their community, yet mention none of them in their cover letter. Big mistake. (Please proceed to the next tip...)
DON'T BE SO MODEST!
If you know the accomplishments you made will help your chances at obtaining a job, write about it! It doesn't matter if you were appointed as a staff writer on your school's newspaper and not editor, you were still involved! Expand upon one of the most groundbreaking stories you covered on campus. Have your own business? Let your prospective employer know! You're not being arrogant, you're just providing facts.
Don't lie
It's just that simple. If you know you were never President, Treasurer and VP of three different campus organizations, don't even think about including that in your resume or cover letter. Be honest. No matter what that "white lie" was, it's only a matter of time until you are discovered... which could potentially mean termination from a job you may have been given, and not to mention a loss of respect.
Some Side Notes:
- Be Organized and keep track of each job application you send, including the company name and position title
- When sending resumes, cover letters, or anything else the employer requests, use the file formats that they specify; if none is specified, always send PDFs.
- Save everything! This goes along the lines of being organized. It will make things easier to find in the event you get called in for an interview and need to review the job description and other materials.
