No matter how stellar your resume might be, it should always come with its partner: the cover letter. And if your resume is really as good as it can get, then your cover letter should also be of similar caliber.
The cover letter is the formal expression of a job seeker's intent to work for a particular company through a particular position. It is the first method of correspondence between the applicant and the company so it is really a very important document. On the other end, when the companies open their emails and/ or go through physical applications, it will also be the first point of reference. In it, the applicant is expected to introduce himself, present himself fit for the vacant position and he must also let the company feel like they need him for the job.
A cover letter has five main parts: the Recipient (and his/her information), Salutation, Body, Closing Remarks and the Signature. Actually it takes on the form of any other formal letter; only, this one has a distinct use.
First, you start off with writing the date at the topmost left part of the letter. After that, skip 2 spaces and write the name of the recipient in all caps. Next line: write the designation or the position of the recipient and then devote the last line in stating the office and the address (next line, if needed) of the office.
After that, use the salutation Dear Mr. /Ms. _____. For formality's sake, the colon must be used. The comma is also widely used but technically, the comma assumes acquaintance or previous correspondence.
In the body of your letter, start by saying your name, your age and your intent to apply for the vacant position. It is also wise to say where you saw the ad or where you got the referral to the job offered. Next up, mention related experience or relevant educational background. You can also state a few milestones that are relevant to the position. If you are a fresh graduate, you can mention extra-curricular activities that helped you gain skills needed for the position offered.
The majority of your letter must be devoted to convincing the recipient why you will be a good fit for the job. It is also important to mention that you are willing to be trained and that you are a team player. If you've gained much experience in your field, choose a few achievements and elaborate how you worked on them. Moreover, end the body of your letter by saying that you will be available for an interview at any time convenient to them.
After the body of the letter, give two spaces and then write a closing remark like "Respectfully Yours" or simply "Respectfully", punctuated with a comma. Below that, skip two spaces and write your name in full caps, followed by your current position (in the company, or simply "Applicant" if you're a fresh grad) and then your contact number. These 3 must be in 3 different spaces. The two spaces after the closing remark is where you attach your signature. It caps off your letter and reiterates that everything you stated was true and that that letter is officially a legal document.
CareerFact's comprehensive career guide has a section that discusses how to write an excellent cover letter in detail. It teaches what information to include, how to present it and how to tailor it according to the goals of your target company.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Jenkins_Sr.
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