How to Write a Cover Letter

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By Angela Harris


Why Use Cover Letters for a Resume?

An effective cover letter to go with your resume can make or break your chances at securing your dream job. You should include a cover letter with every job resume, even if it isn't required. An employment cover letter makes your resume look more professional.

The cover letter for a resume is your very first impression to your potential employer. Professional cover letters are not difficult to prepare, but they should be absolutely perfect. Be sure there are no grammatical or spelling errors. If your cover letter is interesting and professional, the interviewer will be compelled to look more closely at your resume and maybe even schedule you for a job interview.

A general cover letter is so named because it serves like a report cover for your resume. A cover letter for a resume covers all your pertinent information in a few, short paragraphs. This lets the hiring manager skim over your information to see if you fit the job qualifications.


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How to Write a Cover Letter

The heading at the top of a general cover letter simply consists of your name and address, followed by the employer's address. The employer's address should include the name of whoever is in charge of hiring for the job. Find out who is doing the hiring so that the letter can be addressed directly to them. Be sure the name is spelled correctly. Separate the addresses with a space between them.

The rest of the cover letter for a resume will consist of only a few paragraphs. State the title of the position in which you are intereseted and tell how you learned about the job opening. State job skills and experience that you possess that will be beneficial to the job opening. This should reflect information on your resume, but in more detail.

The last paragraph of professional cover letters should thank the interviewer for taking the time to review your resume. Also request the opportunity for a job interview. State that you will call to schedule a meeting. Be sure to make the call!

End your cover letter with a business closing, such as Sincerely yours. Sign the cover letter and include your typed name below the signature.

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Last Tips for Professional Cover Letters

Remember to keep your employment cover letter short and simple. It should be no more than four or five paragraphs long.

That is all there is to an effective, professional cover letter that will help you get job interviews. Make the most of it, and have a successful interview as well!

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