When thinking about the content of today's post, I have thought about my freshman year of college in which I remember interviewing for my Resident Assistant position at Lakeland. While going through the process, I recall the struggle I had when writing a cover letter that best represented my qualities and what I had to bring to the table. In response to these struggles I have had, the content of today's post will help you to write a cover letter that not only fits your accomplishments, but also exhibits your accomplishments in a professional manner.
1). Don't repeat your resume
Many people write their cover letter as an extension of their resume in paragraph form. While most resumes are glanced at for a minute, a cover letter is observed in much greater depth to see if your attributes would fit the job in which you are applying for. Use your cover as a way to show off your personality, curiosity, and interest in the field in which you are applying for. While it is important to show off your qualities, it is also important to know about the company in which you are applying for.
2) Keep it short
Never write your cover letter longer than 3 paragraphs. While it is important to write about what you have to offer, it is more important to keep it concise.
3). Addressing the letter
If you do not know who you are addressing the letter to, do not address it to anybody.
4). Never use phrases that are too generic
Avoid any phrases that are a "one size fit all" generalization. Try to make every sentence in relation to YOU and what YOU have to bring to the job.
5). Finish on a bang!
Make sure to finish your resume with how your experiences will fit the job. While also finishing your letter, make sure to also include additional contact information in a request to receive an interview in the future!
If you have any questions about the content of today's post please feel free to comment in the box below, or visit forbes.com for more tips and tricks on writing a cover letter.
Porges, Seth. (2012). 6 Secrets to Writing a Great Cover Letter.
