Writing a Successful Cover Letter
May 21, 2009 by admin
Filed under Cover Letters
Your Cover Letter is Just as Important as Your Resume
It is amazing sometimes how often job seekers regard the cover letter as an afterthought. In fact, the purpose of the cover letter is to make someone want to read your resume. It is the
Length. A cover letter should neither be too short or too lengthy. Approximately one page is good rule of thumb for the length of your cover letter.
Salutation. Always, always, always try to address the cover letter as “Dear Jane Smith”. This may require doing some research on your part – checkout the company’s website, call the company, etc. If you absolutely cannot get a name to address your letter to, use “Dear Sir or Madam”. Never use “To Whom It May Concern” – that is just too much like spam mail.
Introduction. The introduction is the first one to three sentences of your cover letter. The introduction should
not be where you cite that you saw their job posting or that you want an interview. This is your one shot at an opening line. Use the introduction to quickly summarize what you bring to the table. Do
not try to be funny or cute.
Example: After a successful election, I am searching for another exciting opportunity where I can utilize my eight years of communications experience. Throughout my political career, I have worked hard to supplement by master’s degree in Public Affairs and Crisis Communications with hands-on press and media experience. My professional expertise working with national and local media outlets on behalf of progressive organizations as a hard-hitting communications staffer makes me an excellent fit to work as the Senior Press Secretary for XYZ Politics National.