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Writing A Cover Letter

The document provides dos and don'ts for writing an effective cover letter. It advises to [1] address the specific job requirements, speak to the organization's needs, highlight keywords from the posting, and promise results while demonstrating passion. The cover letter should [2] be short at 3 paragraphs or less, use traditional formatting, address the reader by name, state the interest in an interview, and thank the reader. It also advises to [3] avoid restating the resume, having a boring opening, rambling, using jargon, and underestimating the importance of a strong cover letter.

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ravish kataria
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152 views

Writing A Cover Letter

The document provides dos and don'ts for writing an effective cover letter. It advises to [1] address the specific job requirements, speak to the organization's needs, highlight keywords from the posting, and promise results while demonstrating passion. The cover letter should [2] be short at 3 paragraphs or less, use traditional formatting, address the reader by name, state the interest in an interview, and thank the reader. It also advises to [3] avoid restating the resume, having a boring opening, rambling, using jargon, and underestimating the importance of a strong cover letter.

Uploaded by

ravish kataria
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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The Do’s and Don’ts of Writing a Cover Letter

Writing a succinct and informative cover letter is crucial. Hiring managers generally scan through a cover letter, so
grabbing their attention immediately can be the key to getting an interview.

Do
• Address the job announcement: Understand the requirements and job details and
responsibilities. Cover letters should be specific for the job to which you are applying. One
general cover letter will not suffice for multiple, unique roles.
• Speak to the needs of the organization: Start with an opener that shows you understand
the industry and can meet their needs. Make specific reference to the company’s mission if
appropriate to show that your goals align.
• Highlight key words from the job posting: Your cover letter could be scanned for
keywords and dismissed immediately if appropriate words are not included.
• Promise to deliver results: Detail why past experiences and challenges make you the
perfect fit for this position. If you’ve overcome specific obstacles to succeed, this is a great
place to communicate those experiences.
• Show your passion: With hundreds of applicants to consider, hiring managers are looking
for the person who will be enthusiastic and committed to the position and organization.
Demonstrate why you are that person with concrete examples but avoid over-exaggerating.
• Keep the letter short: Three short paragraphs should cover what you need to say without
overwhelming the recipient. Your cover letter should not exceed one page with 12-point font.
• Use traditional formatting: Research sample cover letters to learn where to place various
required information, such as your contact information, the hiring manager’s contact
information, signature, etc. Be sure to use a professional font, such as Times New Roman or
Arial.
• Address your reader: Find out the name of the hiring manager if it is not already included in
the posting. Avoid generalized greetings, such as “To Whom It May Concern.”
• Know what you are asking for: State clearly that you are interested in interviewing for the
position. Conclude your cover letter with this message to drive home your intentions.
• Thank your reader: Be sure to show your appreciation for their time and consideration.

Don’t
• Reiterate your résumé: Make your cover letter a unique representation of why you are the
perfect person for the job.
• Have a boring opening statement: “Please accept my résumé”, and “In response to the
position…” will not grab their attention. Express what makes you a unique candidate in the
first sentence to hook the reader.
• Ramble: The recipient will look to your résumé for more detail, so make your cover letter is
expressive but easy to digest.
• Use jargon: Don’t confuse the recipient by using industry or military lingo. Try to translate
your skills to demonstrate why they make you the perfect fit.
• Underestimate the importance of a good cover letter: A bad cover letter can negate a
great résumé. Proofreading and customization are essential to making an impression.

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