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Most resume cover letters are three paragraphs long:
1st paragraph: Introduces you, why you're writing, and some "hook" to get the
reader to continue reading: a quick statement of why you would be an asset to
the company, or a reflection of your knowledge of the position
.
2nd paragraph: Illustrates how your skills, experience and achievements make
you a good candidate for this particular job, and how you could help the company
in this position. This paragraph can highlight, or expand upon, some aspects
of your experience.
3rd paragraph: Closing paragraph, restating your interest and desire for an interview,
along with a time by which you will follow-up on your letter.
Resume Cover Letters
Your cover letter is an opportunity to sell yourself! To get an interview, your cover letter should illustrate how your specific skills
and achievements make you a good candidate for a particular job.
Expert tips include:
- Use good quality bond stationary and envelopes, which match your resume paper.
- Make your own personal letterhead by copying the contact information from your resume, and posting at the top of your cover letter.
- Use bullet points and lots of "white space" to make your cover letter easy to read.
- Address it to the hiring manager, not human resources. Do your research and, when possible, find out who is making the hiring decision.
- Tailor the cover letter to highlight skills useful to this position and company. (Investigate the company and industry, and show your knowledge here!)
- Cite specific examples of your achievements, and how they helped your previous
employer (and how they can help your next one!)
- When writing, always be thinking of your reader: they want to know "what's in it for me" and how you'll be a good addition to their team.
- Proofread, proofread, proofread! Mistakes in your cover letter can land it in the "rejects" pile.