First of all, avoid the temptation to get too wordy or share too many personal details. The employer wants to know what your competencies are in the field of accounting, not how many dogs and cats you grew up with or the fact that your Aunt Mary’s favorite sandwich is banana and bologna.
Ideally a cover letter should be no longer than one page—one and a half in exceptional circumstances. There should be an introductory paragraph in which you briefly present yourself and your credentials and relate how it is that you found out about the opportunity.
The second paragraph is usually reserved for a statement of just what qualifications you have and how you have utilized these in the past. While it is certainly important to project an air of confidence, you must be careful about overselling yourself or bragging.
In the third paragraph, you will be able to cite the reasons you feel that you could make a compelling contribution to company XYZ. This is the part where you will want to cite your eagerness to learn and grow, along with your willingness to ‘do what it takes’ to be successful.
The fourth and final paragraph is your opportunity to offer a summation of what you’ve said in paragraphs 1-3. Be sure to end with a memorable statement about yourself. And, don’t forget to also include a couple of letters of reference to save the employer the agony of having to procure them for himself.
Most importantly, be sure that the tone of your letter is upbeat, cheerful and professional. (No slang, or sloppy grammar is permitted.)
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