Jobseekers frequently underestimate the importance of resume cover letters. A well-written cover letter can mean all the difference in the world, or at least become the deciding factor in whether your resume gets read or cast into the circular file.
Jobseekers commonly make the mistake of duplicating their resume when they write the cover letter– although many of them just plain forget to write the cover letter to begin with! However, you need a cover letter that expands on and complements your resume.
Imagine that you’re the one sitting at a desk with piles of resumes to look at. Pretty much all of them are printed on good white paper. They all boast of each applicant’s skills and objectives.
Quite a few of them have letters, some of them very long. Overwhelming, isn’t it? Set yourself apart. The cover letter needs to get attention from the reader and give them plenty of good reasons for them to turn the page.
So where to start? You can find many examples of resume cover letters on the internet. They are available in several formats, for dozens of different types of jobs. You can find them all by using your favorite search engine.
Of course, if someone well-known to the company or interviewer has referred you and given you permission to use their name in your cover letter, do so! Networking referrals are a powerful tool, and can ensure that your resume at least gets read.
Next, look carefully at the job description, and reference it, applying your skill set in the appropriate places. This is where it can be tempting to simply repeat what’s in your resume, but it offers a great chance to go a step further. Use the job description to show the reader how your skills will benefit the company.
Above all, picture the interviewer reading the cover letter and asking, “What’s in it for me?” Chances are that’s exactly what the interviewer’s thinking every time he or she is reading resume cover letters. The interview is sure to be yours if your answer sounds good!
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- Carlie Evie
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