The cover letter is every bit as important as your resume and should always accompany your resume or CV. Your cover letter introduces you (and your resume) to your prospective employer. Your cover letter serves to ask for an interview. When all is said and done, the prospective employer will feel compelled to call you in for that important interview to learn more about you. Below is the structure on how to write an effective cover letter.
The structure of a cover letter could be summarized by the 3 words:
You: in the first paragraph, you speak about the company
Me: then you tell about your credentials
Us: you ask for an interview
For instance in this last part you could say:
âI would welcome the opportunity to meet with you to discuss my potential contributions to your company.â
Top left hand corner of letter, write your contact details, date
Joe Martin
2150 Park Lane
New York, NY 77777
(098) 235-4555
February 20, 2010
Write contact details of prospective employer
Mr. John Smith
Director
Adequatis Consulting
5854 Tombon Road
New York, NY 77777
Dear Mr. Smith,
Opening paragraph â Tell why you are applying to this company and the opening you are applying for if you answer to an ad.
Secondary paragraph(s)- Provide descriptive information to provide the reader with good reasons to invite you to an interview. Use a variety of the following:
1. Education
2. Work experience
3. Ability to work in a team
4. Interest in your position
5. Interest in the activity of the company
6. Responsibilities in previous positions
Closing paragraph â This will be written so your prospective employer will take action!
Take the initiative and suggest a good time for you to come in for an interview. Be sure to include all of your contact information, including your email.
Close with:
Sincerely, (if you started with dear Mr Smith)
Enclosure (this will be your resume)
Address your letter directly to the person in charge of hiring.
You can learn more about acing your interview from Patrick Taranto by clicking job hunting mistakes.