Employment Cover Letter Tips

An employment cover letter should be designed as another sales document to get you an interview. Much debate persists about the importance and relevancy of cover letters in the job search process in today's market. Regardless, a well-written cover letter can only help you make a great first impression.

Tips for an Effective Employment Cover Letter:

Keep the cover letter short and concise. No more than 2-3 paragraphs.

Focus your statements on how you will help fill the employer's need - what's the benefit to them?

Use the same header on your employment cover letter as you do on your resume, as well as the same paper stock if hand-delivered or mailed. This provides consistency and makes it easy to identify your documents if they get separated.

Don't include expected salary information in your cover letter unless the job posting specifically requests it. Even then, use salary ranges.

Use bullet points to highlight specific accomplishments based on the position you're seeking. Make sure these accomplishments are included on your resume, as many hiring managers may not get a chance to read your cover letter.

Tell the employer exactly how and when they can contact you for an interview. Don't use generic statements such as "I look forward to hearing from you" - everyone says this! Instead, say, "I would like the opportunity to discuss this position in more detail, and may be reached at 111-555-1234 to schedule a personal interview".

Address the cover letter to a specific person. Call the company and find out who the hiring manager is.

Research information about the company, and use this along with the job posting to determine how you can help the company be successful.

Remember, your employment cover letter should sell you to a potential employer, and direct the hiring manager or recruiter to contact you for an interview.

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