How To Write A Cover Letter For A Job

If you are trying to learn how to write a cover letter for a job, most likely you know that you must do a professional job in order to impress the employer and have him consider you a candidate for the position. Doing a half-way or poor job of writing your cover letter can toss your chances of employment right out the window.

This is your first (and possibly only) chance to make a great first impression, and you want to do the task right. Below, you will learn how to write a great cover letter for a job, greatly enhancing your chances of securing the position!

Why write a cover letter?

A cover letter introduces you and your skills to a potential employer. Anyone who submits a resume, whether the employer asks for a cover letter or not, should include one. If you do not include a cover letter with your resume, a potential employer may view you as lazy or simply not professional enough to be thorough in your efforts.

While you may not feel that you have the skills to write an effective cover letter, you can do it – with a little instruction.

How to write a cover letter for a job

In the top right hand corner of the page about 1 inch from the edge, include your name, address and contact information.

Skip down a line or two, and enter the date. Next, skip 3 or 4 more lines and place the name of the contact person, followed by the name and address of the company. If you can avoid it, never address your cover letter to "Dear Sir/Madam" or "To whom it may concern."

Next, you will want to include a brief introduction that states why you are writing and what position you are interested in. You want this opening to catch the readers attention so that he/she will read the body of your cover letter.

Now, you should write two to three paragraphs briefly outlining your talents and qualifications, relating them directly to the position for which you are applying. Keep this information short, and do not replicate data that is in your actual resume. Indicate your enthusiasm and desire for the job, and demonstrate your willingness to assist the company in reaching its desired goals.

It is always good to remember that an employer wants to know what you can do for their company, not what they can do for you. Research the company and the industry, so that you can speak intelligently in your cover letter and indicate that you are familiar with their history.

Before you send out your cover letter, always review and proofread your work for spelling and grammar errors. Check all punctuation, keep your information as brief and to-the-point as possible, and sell yourself! Keep an upbeat tone throughout your cover letter, and show the employer that you are a professional.

You can find more detailed information concerning how to write a cover letter for a job online.