How to write a cover letter

The hard part is over, writing the resume, now comes the fun part, connecting with new people and learning about what they are up to! The cover letter is a very important introduction in this regard. It will reflect your personality, your interests, your style and put your resume in perspective.

Yes you should always include a cover letter. It is your chance to introduce yourself and explain why you are the right fit for this company or this job. It also allows you to explain sections of your resume of highlight particularly relevant experiences. You want to focus on how you can contribute to the future success of this particular company. It should be targeted and personal.

Before we get into the nitty gritty, one of the most important elements of a successful cover letter is to explain to the reader: why this company. What about this company and what they are doing is meaningful to you? Do you feel passionate about their mission or their products? Be sure to tell them.

Research: Do your homework. What is happening in the industry? Who are the big players and how does this company fit into the grand scheme? Is there any "breaking news" specific to your company or the industry? What drives the firm's profits? More specifically, what is the work environment like? Are they hiring? Why? Do you have relevant experience that will contribute to the company's success? As you sit down to write your cover letter, you want to know as much as you can about the company you are addressing.

Salutation: Address your letter to a specific individual in the company. It is easier to write when you imagine a person reading it! It also give you someone to follow up with and if the person is not the appropriate recipient, you can ask them for a referral.

Introduction: Capture the readers attention. Mention a referral or connection if applicable. Clearly state the purpose of the letter, ideally including why you care about what they are doing.

Body of the letter: Mention relevant information you learned about the company. Discuss the position you are interested in. Detail how your skills and experience are relevant and will benefit the company. Refer to your resume. This is your chance to highlight relevant experiences and skills, especially those that make you the unique and wonderful person you are. You believe you can contribute, tell them how. Do not make this too long, nor too short. Imagine a busy reader, you want to capture their attention, but if you are too long or repetitive, you will lose the reader.

Closing: Convey your enthusiasm. Thank them. Initiate follow up action with specifics on who is going to do what in what time frame. Be specific and STICK TO IT.

You want the reader to be excited about your interest in the company. You want them to think, "wow, what an interesting person, we would be lucky to have her or him join us" or "perhaps she or he should talk to so and so." Many people today are sending off resumes without cover letters and they end up going right across the desk and into the trash. A cover letter gives your appeal "stickiness" and will help you build a network as your navigate your job search.