CLASSES & JOBS

A resume cover letter can be just as important as your resume. Your resume is not complete without a cover letter. If you do not include a cover letter with your resume, you may find that your resume is simply ignored and you may not even get an interview. Be sure to include a well written cover letter with every resume that you submit.

Before you begin writing a cover letter you should be aware that are three different types. The application cover letter is used when you are responding to a job opening. The second type of cover letter, known as a prospecting cover letter, is used when you are inquiring about possible job positions. The third type, the networking cover letter, is used to request information and assistance in finding a position.

You should send the cover letter that is appropriate for the reason you are sending your resume. It is good to remember that a form cover letter is not a good idea when you are seeking employment. The best cover letters include information specific to the job you are applying for and why you are interested in gaining employment there.

You should read about the company that you are applying for a position at prior to sending the resume. By doing so, you are telling the prospective employer that you are really interested, so much so that you took time out of your schedule to research the position and the company.

An effective cover letter addresses three general issues. The first paragraph should explain why you are writing. If you were referred by someone you should mention the contact by name. If you are responding to a job posting explain how you learned of the position and always include the title of the job.

Your skills and abilities should be put in the second paragraph. This is where you should describe what you can offer the company. It should all pertain to the job that you are applying for. Tell them how your knowledge and experience relates to the job at hand and how you can be an asset to the company.

The last paragraph should be the conclusion. In this paragraph you should explain how you plan on following up. You should tell them a time frame that you will be sending an email or making a phone call to follow up about the position. Be sure that you promise a time frame and keep to it.

You should advise the reader that you will provide references if they need them. You may want to find out the follow up policies for the company because some companies do not allow follow up phone calls or emails. They would prefer to contact you. If you are unsure of their preferences in this regards, you may want to change the last paragraph from telling them that you will call them to asking them to reach you. If you do this, be sure to include an email address or phone number that you will be available at.

Taking the time to write an effective cover letter presents an opportunity aside from your resume to sell yourself to a potential employer. A good cover letter also demonstrates your ability to communicate effectively in writing. This is a skill which is necessary for many positions. Cover letters are effective tools which can greatly increase your chances of being offered an interview and can help you to land that ideal position.