Your Real First Impression: The Cover Letter

A resume or curriculum vitae (CV) offers an overview of a professional’s work experience and other qualifications.

It is the first point of contact that a potential employer has with the job applicant. Technically, it is the cover letter that first introduces the candidate to the employer. Let us explore about cover letters and their significance in the employment procedure.

Deciphering the Cover Letter

A cover letter is a formal note that is sent along with the resume. It is written in order to promote yourself to prospective employers, and complements the CV.

Since it is usually the first item that an employer comes across about the job seeker, it has to be grammatically correct and convincing. Your cover letter is meant to market you for the specific position and persuade them that you are perfect for the job.

The potential employers make use of this cover letter to filter aspirants. If you get through then it is followed by a long process of interviews and group discussions.

The cover letter need not re-phrase your CV, it has to offer more insight and new information about you as a professional. It should highlight your skills and portray you as apt for the job that you are applying for.

Scripting Cover Letter For a Resume

When applying for a job, it is always a good practice to accompany your resume with an interesting cover letter. The following steps will help you create a professional cover letter that will make a strong impact.

Sample cover letters

It is always advisable to go through a few basic cover letters before creating one on your own. This helps you get an idea about how particular information can be conveyed in the right manner and how to steer clear of industry jargon. The fundamentals remaining the same, your information can vary depending on what you want to display.

Include significant facts

While writing a cover letter, you must include information like your introduction, state the job position you have applied for, and clarify how you located the opening.

You must also elaborate as to why you are fit for the role and inform the employers that you are qualified enough for that position. You must also appeal for an interview and thank the company in the end added with your regards. Knowing the background about the company always helps you frame the letter in an appropriate manner.

Include job details

Always remember mentioning how you received news about the job availability – word of mouth, posting on a job portal, or classifieds. Then elaborate on the job position and why you want it. Most big companies provide a job number along with the position, in such a case include it in the letter.

Additional data

If the job posting requires you to specify additional information like amount of work hours a week or expected remuneration, make sure you answer it in the letter.

Customization

You can always personalize the letter in accordance with the work you are applying for. Additionally, it is better to address a cover letter to a particular person. Directing the letter to a specific person’s name and title improves the chances of response. However, you must ensure that the spelling of the name is right.

These tips will help you go a long way in the journey of your professional life. A brief and crisp resume cover letter will always add value to your CV.