Question: what does a good cover letter aim to do? Answer: It is intended to allow the reader to learn pertinent details about the writer that are not expressed in the resume.
It is, however, a tricky document to write. First of all, it demands that you know yourself well, and that you are able to predict which of your abilities are likely to be of greatest interest to the company you are applying to.
Of necessity, you’ll want to keep it to a maximum of 3 paragraphs, excluding the opening and closing paragraphs. Stick to the points you have decided to make, and make sure that you are using the appropriate level of language. i.e., neither jargon nor slang will enhance your cause. Be sure to convey respect and don’t go to extraordinary lengths to find 7 syllable words to use! Keep it simple and use vocabulary with which you are already familiar.
Open your letter with a strong statement that will capture the reader’s attention. If you are knowledgeable about the company you might start out by saying “I noticed that you have just rolled out your new product line.” Then go on to say how you feel you would be able to assist in promoting it.
The goal of your letter is to come across as a savvy professional who can work in many different capacities and provide a skill or talent that they may not have at present. Make sure to state how the company will benefit by hiring you. (Perhaps you can increase their sales quotas by virtue of your fluency in another language, or maybe help a division re-invent itself or maybe you can offer your assistance in streamlining one or more in-house procedures.
Another compelling technique is to send along a sample of your work: a client mailing or brochure that you created. That way, the manager doesn’t have to take your word about your competency: he can see it for himself.
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