Help With Writing a Cover Letter

Getting to the Point

Within the first paragraph of your cover letter, introduce yourself and reveal how you learned of the position. Instead of simply stating your name, include your professional title. For example, "I am a certified public accountant seeking to fill the position of...." Always include the exact job description when available. If you're sending a general letter to express interest in an employer, adding positions you hope to fill suffices.

Read the job description and research the company before writing your cover letter. Never send a generic letter to an employer. Generic letters rarely make employers want to read your resume. Instead, tailor your cover letter information to fit the job description. Communicate professional strengths you possess that relate directly to the position open or the company's mission. In certain cases, none of your professional qualifications may match the job opening. Think of a way you used the required job skills in your community or personal life.

Cover letters are generally one page with three paragraphs. However, if you have a long, relevant work history, you may need more than one page to describe your qualifications. Whenever possible, keep information concise. If you have a number of examples of your qualifications, created a bulleted list so that it's easy to read.

In your research for information on the employer, learn the person's name responsible for hiring. Address the person in your cover letter by name. Avoid generic salutations such as "Dear Sir or Madam" whenever possible. By personalizing your letter, you're distinguishing yourself from other applicants who failed to perform thorough research.