Are You Covered?

Cover letters tell the employer why…

Your cover letter is the first thing a prospective employer will see about you. Like all first impressions, it is critical.
It’s your opportunity to tell your prospective employer to stop looking, because you are the person they are looking for.
That means you can’t afford canned, one-size-fits-all statements.  This needs clear and it needs to be personal.  You want tell them why they need to stop looking. The best way to do that is to tell them what you can do for them.
A good cover letter makes the reader want to look at your resume. So give them reasons by telling them the job you’re applying for, where you saw it posted, and most importantly what you can do for them based on your experience. Remember this is a billboard, it’s not the place for details.  You can refer to the details in your resume to support your claims, but your purpose is to stir their interest so beware of too much information.  A good cover letter must also be short.
Wind it up by letting them know when you’re available, the best way to reach you and let them know you’re eager to meet them and talk more about the job. Always tell them the best way to reach you.
Other things you could include, if they are relevant, are your salary history and requirements, and your geographic work area preferences.
Finally, always have someone proofread both your cover letter and your resume.  Imagine what happens to resumes that have “detail oriented” misspelled.  It happens way too often.
If you need help developing your resume and cover letter, give us a call.  It’s our meat and potatoes!
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