Do you just disclose or do you titilate?

     No, we are not going to plan a hot night out!  We are discussing your cover letter.  Surprised?    Shocked?  Confused?  A cover letter is a personalized statement to a recruiter about your abilities that is designed to get an interview.   In a way, it is like flirting.  Your stationary and resume could be compared to your attire but your cover letter is like making eye contact.
     You make eye contact and smile before approaching someone.  Your cover letter needs to convey this.  It needs to indicate that you are desirable and  approachable. So, what should you put in your cover letter?  Start with the posting.  Read it several times and check for the name of the person to contact, buzz words and job requirements.  You may want to dissect the posting in order to answer the questions: who, what, when, where, why, and how.

• Who 
• who posted the job
• who are their clients
• who are they hiring (ie., job title)
• What
• what are the job duties
• what are the hours 
• what the characteristics of the person they want
• what are educational requirements
• what type of work experience are they seeking
• When
• when do they want the person to start working
• when are they going to interview
• when will they stop accepting applications
• Where
• where is the job
• where do you submit your application 
• Why
• why do they need to fill this position (ie.,relocating, expansion) 
• How
• are you to respond to the posting (ie., physically bring it, mail it or fax it)
• are you going to perform the job (ie., computer skills, language skills)  

     The answers to these questions are in the advertisement.  If you are not certain, then investigate the company.  Note, if the ad does not provide the name of the company, you may want reconsider the validity of this posting.  Companies have been know to advertise positions to find out who is looking for another job and/or to establish an applicant pool.  Use their buzz words and clearly indicate that you have the desired skills.  Your closing should be either a call to action or let them know that you will be contacting them.  Remember to thank them for their time and consideration.  Keep the cover letter to one page.

Take a Break!

     Take a break before you proofread it.  Compare what you wrote and with the advertisement.   Check your spelling, grammar and the reading level.  Now, do print preview.  Remember, how I compared the letter to making the initial eye contact and smile.  You would never want a piece of broccoli stuck in your teeth so you check yourself.  The same principle applies here. How does the letter line up on the paper?  Do you need to adjust the margins?  Is it in block format?  Did you use abbreviations?  Now print.  The envelop should be printed also. 

Take a Break!

     Take one last look.  Perhaps, you should have someone else read it.  Does the letter give the impression that you are the right person for the job?  Does the employer know how to reach you? 

     Keep a copy of your records.  Be certain to make the follow-up call, if you stated that you would be calling.

     Still not certain how to write a cover letter or would like someone to review your letters, please call me for a free consultation.  My number is 402.965.1496.