The Resume Cover Letter

Once my job search skills were honed and my resume was polished, it was on to the next item designed to help me find a job. That item was a quality cover letter. Once again, I found myself at a disadvantage due to the fact that it had been so long since I had engaged in job hunting. Not only did I not have a cover letter but I was under the impression that it really was not that important. However, after doing some research as a part of my search for employment, I discovered that a cover letter can be the difference between getting an interview and having your resume tossed aside without ever being reviewed. Your resume cover letter effectively serves as an introduction of you to potential employers and they may choose to only interview those to whom they have been properly introduced. Of course if you don't get an interview, then it stands to reason that you don't get the job.

Just having a cover letter is a start but if it is of low quality, then you may be better off not using it. I'd rather not have a cover letter than to have one that does a poor job of representing me. In my opinion, a bad cover letter can do more damage than good. A poorly constructed cover letter tells a story about you just as a high quality cover letter does except in a negative manner. There are obvious things that you need to pay attention to such as spelling, grammar, and punctuation but there are many more things to consider in order to really make a positive impression.

First of all, it is a good idea to customize your resume cover letter to suit each position for which you apply. A "one size fits all' approach will probably make you seem lazy and will definitely sound boring. Work in the name of the company and the title associated with the position for which you are applying. If you were referred by someone, make sure you include this fact along with the name of that person in the first paragraph.

Next, demonstrate to your potential employer that you have taken the time and initiative to learn enough about the company and the open position to focus your cover letter appropriately. Tell them why you would be a good fit for that specific position and for the company in general. Perhaps you can mention something related to the company's mission statement and explain how it aligns with your beliefs or background. Back up these declarations with pertinent facts about your accomplishments, skills, education, and job history that may not have been detailed in your resume. Keep in mind that the cover letter is intended to be a complement to your resume and not a mere duplication.

In the concluding paragraph, set expectations. If it is a situation where it would be appropriate to follow up, then indicate that you will do so and how you will do it (i.e. letter, phone call, email, etc.). Don't forget to thank whoever is reading your letter for taking the time to do so and for considering you for the position. Also let them know how to contact you for an interview and include your contact information.

Finally, don't make your cover letter too long. Just get to the point and include the necessary information as discussed above. Remember that the ultimate goal of your letter--combined with your resume--is to get you an interview. This is simply another tool designed to help you along that path. Don't try to make your resume cover letter your interview. I also want you to understand that these are just a few basic tips about creating a quality resume cover letter. There are many resources available online that go into more detail but this should be enough to get you started, but, as always, I encourage you to do more research to increase the quality of your final product. In fact, I am still in the process of perfecting my cover letter because I know that when it comes to doing things designed to help me find a job, I can't over do it. Hopefully you are of the same mindset.