Tip of the Day Tuesday

25 Tips to Make Your Perfect Cover Letter:

1. Write an original letter for each application
2. Differentiate yourself from other job applicants
3. Address your cover letter to a specific person
4. Write a positive letter
5. Be direct – don't beat around the bush
6. Write a letter that can easily be skimmed
7. Don't repeat your resume in your letter
8. Research the company before writing the letter
9. Specify what job you are seeking
10. Follow up after a week if you have not heard back
11. Be specific—don't generalize your accomplishments
12. Sign your letter before you send it
13. Have a few friends proofread you letter
14. Explain who you are and why you are writing
15. Focus on your experience, not your education
16. Proofread! Proofread! Proofread!
17. Open your letter with a sentence that gets the reader's attention
18. Write to the reader
19. Write a "you”-oriented letter Limit your "I”s
20. Don't forget to spell check your letter
21. Sell yourself in your letter—don't be bashful
22. Use a formal business letter format
23. Type your letter
24. Invite the reader to contact you for an interview
25. Print your letter on the same paper as your resume

Three Things Every Cover Letter Should Do

Every cover letter should include the name of the position for which you are applying and where you saw it advertised. It’s usually best to include this information in the first letter of your cover letter so that your potential employer knows what you are applying for and how you found out about the position. Keep in mind that they are probably hiring for more than one position, especially if it is a larger company.

Your cover letter should also add value to your resume. That means that it shouldn’t just repeat the information on your resume in a letter. In order to add value, your cover letter needs to have new information in it. The cover letter should be personalized and form a bridge between your “standardized” resume and the position you are applying for. Let your cover letter show how your background is relevant to your resume.

Last, use your cover letter to preview your resume. If your cover letter is written well, the potential employer is more likely to read your resume. Use your cover letter to tease the employer and encourage them to read your resume.

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