10 Cover letter secrets to get you the Job Interview

1. Secret 1

The first secret is that the real purpose of the cover letter is to get you the interview. Thus you must ask for the interview in your letter. That is the whole point of the cover letter.  It is a tool to get you the interview.

2. As a tool the cover letter is an important as the resume. The best cover letter induces the reader to take a look at the resume. Use language that will entice the reader to take a closer look at the resume and want to meet you.

3. All resumes need an accompanying cover letter. Every resume should be accompanied with a cover letter.

4. Start your letter with the request to have an interview and some say it should be typed in bold:  I would welcome the opportunity to interview for the position of XXXXX.

5. Then go on to state why  you are qualified for this particular job (remember customization).

6. In the last paragraph suggest a meeting time. This may seem bold but it does get things moving. For example, Are you able to schedule an interview within the next 15 days? I’m available in the mornings. I am looking forward to listening to your expectations and answer your questions.

7. Make it clear in your last paragraph that you are enthusiastic about this  job.  Examples of words you should use: I look forward to meeting you as I feel confident we will relate well to each other.

8. In the main body of the cover letter – brag about yourself – highlighting your unique qualities and attributes. In addition, stress achievements.

9. The cover letter should be eye-catching by being readable, customized to this particular job and succinct.  In other words, concise, relevant and remarkable. The cover letter quickly sets out your key skills, qualifications and experience relevant for the particular job you are applying for. It will state why you are interested in this particular company and the qualities that you think make you a perfect fit for this particular job.

10.  Customize your cover letter. Tailor-made is best. To whom it may concern shows no depth of research on your part into the company’s hiring process. Try to ascertain who might possibily be reading the letter. Usually the cover letter is concise, no more than one page – approximately three to six paragraphs.

    Other cover letter postings at www.abetoday.com 

    http://abetoday.com/2012/02/21/burgers-without-buns-is-your-job-application-like-a-burger-without-a-bun/

    http://abetoday.com/2012/01/25/7-ways-to-write-business-letters-that-hit-the-right-spot/

    http://abetoday.com/2011/08/09/10-cover-letter-writing-secrets/

    http://abetoday.com/2011/08/08/18-cover-letter-mistakes-to-avoid-by-ashraf-chaudhry/

    
    

    

    See the mistakes to avoid by Ashraf Chaudhry http://abetoday.com/2011/08/08/18-cover-letter-mistakes-to-avoid-by-ashraf-chaudhry/