Let’s discuss cover letters. Some recruiters like cover letters because it can give a good, general first impression, without having to go into specifics about each position. Some prefer to completely skip the cover letter and go straight to the resume. Either way, you should always be prepared and assume the recruiter will expect a cover letter.

Keep your cover letter short. Three or four paragraphs should be sufficient.

First, research the company. Check out their website, read their mission statement. Note anything that interests you about the organization.

The first paragraph should immediately reference:

• The position for which you are applying.
• Why you are interested in this position and/or company. Select something specific from the job description that you feel you are skilled in or something from the company that interests you and to which you feel you could make a positive contribution.
• Do not reference your resume, “As you can see by my resume, etc.” The person reading your cover letter knows you have a resume so this is wasted energy.

The second paragraph is your sales pitch. This is where you tell the recruiter/employer why you are qualified and why they should select you above all other candidates. This will typically be your longest paragraph and can be broken into two separate paragraphs if you feel that’s needed.

• Highlight two or three specific qualities or accomplishments that are relevant to the position. Also, provide specific examples proving those qualities or accomplishments.
• DO NOT copy/paste verbiage from your resume! This will be obvious to the recruiter and make you seem lazy and disinterested in taking the time to provide original content.
• You want to show the employer what you can provide to them, not what they can do for you. Try writing from their perspective; if you were looking for someone for that position, what would convince you to consider them further?

For the final paragraph, include the following:

• Thank the recruiter/employer for their time and consideration.
• Mention that you look forward to speaking with them further about the position itself.
• Be assertive, reiterate to the recruiter/employer your confidence in your skills relating to the position.

End with “Sincerely” or “Regards”. Something personal, yet professional.

Proofread your letter at least once. You may even want to have someone else proofread it to ensure any errors are caught.

Remember to keep the tone of the letter positive throughout. Breaking contractions can also keep your cover letter sounding more professional (ie., “We’re” to “We are”, etc.).

You may need to make small changes to your resume as well to ensure the skills listed within it relate well to the position. Typically a few tweaks here and there will do the trick.