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To obtain a job interview, you should always include a cover letter when you send your CV to a firm/company. It is the professional way/manner to give introduction about you and your key points in your resume. It is nothing but summary of your resume.
There are many purposes behind writing a cover letter: to apply for a position, to inquire about job openings, follow up cover letter, thank you cover letter etc.
No problem what purpose is for sending a cover letter, it should includes the points listed below.
Plan your cover letter before you write it. You should pre-plan the things, which you are going to write in your cover letter.
Your contact address with the date. There must be the date at which you are writing the letter to the potential employer.
Address letter to a specific person, if you do not have information regarding the name of a contact then call the organization and ask for the hiring manager/director name of your interest.
Your cover letter should never be more than one page. To grab the reader's attention, letter should be of one page in length because the employer read many letters.
Your cover letter must be in standard business format.
Be specific. Write only important information about yourself like special courses, skills, experience etc. Don't repeat your resume.
Don't make any mistakes. You should avoid mistakes in grammar and spelling writing.
There is a format for writing a cover letter. Below is a guideline for writing a good looking and a well organized cover letter.
First paragraph
In the first paragraph mention the following things:
- Why you are writing (include which position you are applying for)
- How you learned of the position
- Your current status (student or employed)
- If you have completed your degree or when you expect to graduate
- Make a preliminary assertion as to your strength as a candidate
Middle paragraphs
This paragraph is important from the point of view of detailing
- Present specific examples highlighting how your background, experience, achievements, and/or qualifications meet the needs of the position description, department and/or organization
- Explain your interest in the organization
- Discuss your knowledge of and interest in some of the specific characteristics of the job, organization, and/or department
- Address if your profile differs from the job description
Final paragraph
Here you can indicate:
- How you can best be reached
- What is enclosed with the letter
- Your availability for and interest in an interview
- Follow up action on your part
- Thank the reader for his or her consideration
Structure and Details
Appropriately address the salutation to a specific person, not job title (spell their name correctly). Organize your letter well. Before giving your cover letter check for any spelling or grammar errors. Use an appropriate font type and size ?Not to big or not to small. Don't forget to leave contact information in the letter. Write in the tone of a confident (but not arrogant) professional. Be direct.
A cover letter is your opportunity to tell the employer what you are applying for and why you are a good match for the position and the organization. You should submit a cover letter with every resume, whether for an internship or job. While a resume provides a summary of your skills and experience, a cover letter takes it a step further by allowing you to highlight your specific qualifications.
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