How to Write a Cover Letter.
A resume without a cover letter is like a
burger without a bun.
If you really wanted a job from somebody,
you wouldn't send them a burger without a
bun, would you?
Of course not.
You will need and a computer, typewriter,
or some other mechanical writing device.
Step 1.
Address the letter to a specific person.
Writing &#8220;to whom it may concern&#8221;
is lazy—tracking down the right person shows
real moxie.
If you&#8217;re unsure who to write, call
the company and ask.
Make sure you get their exact title and the
correct spelling of their name.
Step 2.
Open your letter with a short introduction
that gets right to the point—say what position
you&#8217;re after and how you found out about
it.
Step 3.
Demonstrate that you understand what the company
does, and show enthusiasm for whatever that
is.
Read through the company&#8217;s website to
find details you can mention in your letter.
Step 4.
Relate your past work experience to the current
opening.
Don&#8217;t count on employers to connect
the dots and realize how your previous jobs
are relevant.
Step 5.
If you&#8217;re responding to a job posting,
adapt your writing to address specific things
mentioned in the post.
Keep your cover letter short and concise.
It shouldn&#8217;t be longer than a page.
A few brief paragraphs is enough.
Step 6.
If you are attaching additional materials,
like a portfolio or a reel, mention that at
the end of the letter.
Step 7.
After thanking your reader, sign off with
a suitable closing, like &#8220;Sincerely&#8221;
or &#8220;Best.&#8221; And type your name
on the next line.
If you&#8217;re mailing your letter, leave
four blank lines between your closing and
your typed name so you have room for your
signature.
Step 8.
Make sure you&#8217;ve included all your contact
information, even if it&#8217;s already on
your resume.
Step 9.
Proofread your letter carefully, word by word.
Have a friend read it over.
At least twice.
If you&#8217;re emailing the letter, send
it to yourself first to make sure there are
no formatting errors.
Step 10.
Send your letter!
And rest assured that your extra care will
set you apart from the crowd.
Did you know The average cover letter is in
an employer&#8217;s hands for eight seconds.
