Start with an original and personalized cover letter.
Some people do not realize that a cover letter can be just as important as a resume, if done right. Though the application process has evolved over time, submitting a cover letter is still pertinent. A cover letter shows your writing style, and for some hiring managers, can serve as a writing sample.
One of the biggest mistakes a person can make on a cover letter is submitting the same generic one for every open position. This is a significant error, as not every position is the same, and the information you are providing may not always relate to the company. If you were a clown who did face painting at children’s birthday parties, listing this information is not relevant when you are applying for an aeronautical engineer position; so be mindful of the information you are including.
Most importantly, write your cover letter yourself. Using search engines to see examples is fine, but when you plagiarize, you can guarantee at some point a hiring manager will know, leading him or her to form a decidedly negative impression of you, and your application file. You do not want to come off as lazy, someone who ‘steals’ ideas or worse: has the same cover letter as another applicant. David Koeppel, an author for The New York Times, writes in his article, Want Your Letter to Stand Out? Here’s a Tip: Write it Yourself, “it is also more likely that employers will receive similar or nearly identical résumés and cover letters copied from easily accessible Web sites.” So stand out from the pack and write your cover letter on your own.
If you have a generic cover letter that you send out en masse or are not sure where to begin, below are some tips that will help you format your letter:
1.) The header on your cover letter should mirror the header from your resume.
2.) Try your best to locate the hiring manager’s name. If you are unable to, address it to ‘To Whom It May Concern’.
3.) Your cover letter should be constructed into three or four paragraphs, and not exceed one page in length.
4.) In the first paragraph, explain why you are submitting your resume for consideration. Also, be sure to include the job vacancy number within the first sentence.
5.) In the second paragraph, list your relevant qualifications. Be sure that they relate specifically to the position for which you are applying.
6.) In the third, explain with examples pulled from past experiences how you plan to assist their organization.
7.) In your last paragraph, provide them information about where you can be reached and indicate that you are interested in interviewing. Wrap up by including a professional closing remark.
8.) Proofread! I recommend that you read your cover letter out loud; as well as have another person review it.
For more information on how to write a cover letter, you can visit the APU or AMU Career Services website, which has examples and more in depth information. Also, if you would like further assistance, career coaches can help with many aspects of your job search and career planning, to include but not limited to, resume and cover letter reviews. Contact the Office of Career Services at careerservices@apus.edu , for any questions or concerns you might have about career development!
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