Every smart resume builder knows certain things about the use of covers letters. Put bluntly, the proper use of a cover letter can dramatically increase your chances of getting the job. Not knowing the proper information leaves you at a disadvantage against competing candidates. By the time you finish reading this article, you will know exactly what the best job hunters know about crafting killer cover letters.
About Purpose
Most job applicants don’t even know why to use a cover letter. Of course, most professional resume writers say you must include one in your resume package… but why? Believe it or not, most of the pros don’t know why either.
The real reason for using a cover letter is to grab the attention of your potential employer. With their interest piqued, they’ll give your resume the time required to warrant an interview.
The smart resume builder introduces themselves briefly, explains why they’re applying, includes employer specific information, and invites the employer to consider the attached resume. Nothing more. Short, quick and to the point. The attention you gain gives your resume a stronger footing.
About Templates
There are boatloads of cover letter templates floating around the internet. With nothing more than a quick Google search, the resume builder can find more templates than he could ever use in a lifetime.
Still, the question remains: If the cover letter has to be unique to be effective, are templates worth it?
In a word: yes. Remember, the template is simply giving you a letter format proven to be effective in getting the resume read. The actual content should/must be unique to the applying job hunter. There is no need to reinvent the wheel, only a need to change out the spokes.
About Closing
The cover letter is simply a bridge for the employer’s thoughts. You want to walk them from the point before the picked up your resume package, to sitting down and reading your resume.
What that means for you as a resume builder is that the closing is the most important part of your cover letter. You have to take the reader by the hand and bring them directly to the resume.
How is this done? Simple: First, summarize the letter into a couple of lines. Then, clearly state exactly what you want the reader to do next. If your cover letter was engaging enough, the reader should willingly comply.
Many a resume builder also includes a line or two stating that they (the resume builder) will follow up in X amount of days. An alternative approach is to simply say that you are looking forward to a reply. The latter is less aggressive, but the former may show a bit more confidence and commitment to getting the job.
After your closing paragraphs don’t forget to “sign out”, using a valediction and your signature in blue ink.
Finally
Your cover letter can make or break your chances of getting the job… don’t take them lightly. Use the information above, and you’ll be at a marked advantage as you job hunt.