Cover letters are a form of introduction. You should aim at making that an impressive one. Cover letters can be used to personalize your skills and put forth your objectives in detail.There are different types of covering letters for different types of introductions.
Formats
You are Invited
This form of cover letter addresses the situation when you have been asked for a resume from the employer or you want to respond to an add in the newspaper or online job requirement. This format would emphasize your qualifications to the ones required. This is one of the most common formats which one is likely to use.
I am not invited but can I contact you ?
This format is typically for hidden job openings which you are aware of through your networking resources. This would be a follow up of a phone call or a conversation with the employer. You would need to match your qualifications to the requirements of the employer. You need to market your skills in this letter and convince the employer that you would add value to the company with your skills.
I have been referred
This format would hold good when you have been referred by someone in the company where you are applying. Many companies offer referral bonus to employees. So this would also be of some benefit to your friend who has referred you.
My qualifications and experience match the job
This letter would be ideal when your qualifications match the job profile advertised. This format is also known as the ’’T’’ Letter format. You need chart out your qualification against the requirements in the form of a bulleted list. Some resources where you can find jobs matching your qualifications are advertisements, networking, conversation with the employer, etc.
What do I write ?
You can start with putting the date and the address of the employer on the left side of the paper.
Address your employer. ( Dear Mr/Ms ABC )
The first paragraph would include you reason for writing this letter. State the position for which you are applying. You can also state the source from where you got to know about the opening.
The second para would require you to market your skills. Put forward your skills and state why you are interested in this job opening and how recruiting you would benefit the employer.
The third para would state that your resume is included. State your availability and your contact information.ANd dont forget to thank the employer for their time.
You can sign off as
Sincerely,
(your signature in ink)
XYZ. ( your typed name)
Put your address and phone number on the bottom left corner of the paper.
Some useful Tips
1. Address your cover letter to a specific person by name and Title. If that is not possible, you can address it to the HR manager.
Use blue ink when you sign the letter. You could use black as an alternate colour but blue is always better to retain originality.
Do not make your letter very long. Keep it short and sweet but loaded with important information. Make your sentences professional and not personal. The information given must be to the point.
Last but not the least, choose a paper for the cover letter which complements your resume. Try and use the same paper type which you used for taking a printout or typing your resume.
Well I hope this has proved helpful for you !!