A
cover letter is used to introduce the résumé. It is your
chance to tell the employer why you would be a good fit with their company.
Here are six tips to get started:
Make it personal. Find the name of someone to send it to within the
company. Use the Internet and don't forget to try to call. It is worth
the extra effort. If you have to use something generic, try Dear Human
Resource Professional or Sales Manager.
Be concise; limit your cover letter to one page. You can go into further
detail in the interview.
Avoid
starting every sentence with “I.” This will make it flow better.
Do NOT mass-produce your letters. It is easily recognizable.
Though you will have a basic format, each cover letter should be written
specifically for the position/company you are applying to and address
specific skills you have that match the qualifications they seek.
Show, don't tell. Don't just say you have certain skills; include specific
examples. This may mean speaking of one or two accomplishments.
PROOFREAD, PROOFREAD, PROOFREAD!
Components of a Cover Letter
Your Street Address
City, State ZIP
Date
Name of Contact Person
Title
Company Street Address
City, State ZIP Dear
Mr./Ms. Last Name:
The opening paragraph should arouse the
interest of the employer. State why you are writing and give
information to show your interest in this specific organization.
If it is a letter of application, name the position for which
you are applying and how you heard of it.
The middle paragraph should create a
desire on the part of the employer to know more about you. Explain
why you are interested in working for this employer. Point out
your achievements or qualifications in this field, especially
those that meet the job description or requirements. Refer the
reader to your general qualifications on your enclosed résumé.
Highlight important points from your résumé. Also
highlight points that will be of particular interest to this
specific organization.
The closing paragraph should pave the
way for the interview by asking for an appointment, by offering
to call the employer in the near future or by making some similar
suggestions to facilitate an immediate favorable reply.
Sincerely,
(sign here)
Your Name
Enclosure (You are noting that you have
enclosed your résumé.)
A
cover letter is used to introduce the résumé. It is your
chance to tell the employer why you would be a good fit with their company.
Here are six tips to get started: 
Avoid
starting every sentence with “I.” This will make it flow better.