Cover Letter Tips

How important is a cover letter?

A great question asked by my follower Nolan Swanson. Cover letters are something I haven't talked about but they have a very significance importance. 

To answer the question:   YES!

A cover letter, sometimes called a letter of application, is attached with a resume when you apply for jobs and it gives you chance to explain with more detail why you are the best fit for the job. Most businesses request that you send one but sometimes they don't. That's because some companies assume that it's implied that you send a cover letter with your resume. 

A cover letter should be the same format as your resume because consistency is important. Generally cover letters have an introductory paragraph, 2-3 body paragraphs, and a closing paragraph. 

Intro Paragraph

States why/what you are applying for and then tells them a little about yourself. Are you a senior business major? Did you just come off an internship looking for a full time job? Let the employer know who you are.

Body Paragraphs (2-3)

Filled with points on why you're the person for the job. Show them requirements that you have that fit with the ones their looking for. Talk about the experiences you've gained while working your previous jobs. Leave out anything that doesn't pertain to the job you're applying for even it seems important to you. This is the time for your selling point on why you should be the person that gets the job. 

Treat it like an interview.

Closing Paragraph

Thank the person reading the cover letter for the time. They didn't have to read yours but they did so thank them for it. Have a call to action. Politely tell them you would like to meet with them or that you would want to schedule an interview. Leave your information and then let them know what else you attached to the cover letter.

Be professional and upfront but stay honest. A little braggy but not to cocky. Let them know they should hire you! 

Hope this helps and good luck!