One problematic area is if they ask for salary requirements to be included in your cover letter. This technique is used to make screening easier - if someone can’t follow simple application directions, why waste time on an interview? Pay careful attention to the information they request and be sure to address it. For example, if you took some time away from the work force, but have kept your skills and knowledge up-to-date.Īdditionally, in some job ads, the company will ask for specific information to be included in your cover letter. This is always a challenge for career changers and individuals looking to relocate and a good cover letter can make a big difference.Įxample: Your cover letter can also explain away other aspects of your particular career situation that might not be appropriate to include on your resume.
They will look at your resume and cover letter and immediately trash them if they don’t see a fit - assuming that you are another one of those annoying applicants who applies for every job posted. Recruiters receive thousands of unqualified resumes for every position. That person will be deciding whether or not you are worth their time to interview and your cover letter can help confirm that your resume goes into the “yes” pile rather than the “file for future opening” pile (or the real or digital garbage can).Įxample: Your cover letter can be used to communicate your intention to make a transition in your career or move to another city/state. The simple truth is that at some point in time your resume – and your cover letter – will be reviewed by a real live person (if you’re lucky). No one really reads cover letters anymore, right?” Wrong. “Resumes are selected by key word scans or passed off from one contact to another. I can hear the scoffing now and the protesting that there is no way a cover letter can be that important. That is why in my 2009 book, “The Complete Guide to Writing Effective Resume Cover Letters: Step by Step Instructions,” I refer to your cover letter as your handshake and your sales pitch all rolled into one. If you don’t get the cover letter right, you may never get the opportunity to wow them with your new suit, confident eye contact, and compelling interview stories.Įven if you network your way into that job interview (and even if you got a great referral from one of your advocates), the hiring manager will look at your resume and/or cover letter and use them to form or influence an opinion prior to meeting you. And in most cases, your first impression on a hiring manager begins with your resume and cover letter. Source: Creative Job Search, a publication of the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.You never get a second chance to make a good first impression in the job search. Sincerely, (Your Signature in blue or black ink) Your name Finally, thank the employer for his/her time.
You might state that you'll be in the area on a certain date and would like to set up a meeting, or you'll call on a certain date to set up a meeting. Be sure to communicate your plan to follow up. Include a statement or question that will encourage the reader to respond. Include day and evening contact information.
You may want to suggest alternate dates and times, or simply advise them of your flexibility to meet. Third Paragraph: Mention that your resume is enclosed and indicate your desire to meet with the employer. Remember, the reader will consider this an example of your writing skills. Include something special or unique about yourself that will benefit the employer. Don't repeat the information on your resume. Second Paragraph: Explain why you're interested in working for this employer and specify how you fit this position. Name the specific position or type of work for which you're applying. _:įirst Paragraph: State the reason for writing.