Including an effective and informative cover letter with your resume is a key component when applying for a job. Below are three simple tips for creating the best cover letter.
Include Selective Personal Information
Many cover letters read similarly and include the same key words and phrases (i.e. "I am seeking a position where I can best use my education and experience" or "I have strong communication skills and love working with people"). Therefore, it is important to give potential employers an idea of your personality and what sets you apart from other applicants. For instance, if you are applying for a job that requires travel, include in your a cover a letter a short paragraph about an exciting travel experience. This will show your enthusiasm for performing what will be a key responsibility.
Brag About Problem-Solving
All of us have had a work experience where we were confronted with a problem and had to find a way to solve it. Potential employers want to know about these experiences. Giving an example of an issue you resolved at a previous job shows dedication and quick thinking. Include in your cover letter a paragraph explaining how you saved the company time or money, increased company profits, prevented a workplace accident, etc.
Proofread, Proofread, Proofread
Your cover letter will quickly be dismissed if it contains spelling and/or grammatical errors. Spell check is a wonderful tool, but it will not catch every mistake. Have at least one person (preferably with a professional background) proofread your cover letter and your resume. Often we read the document so many times that we overlook simple errors. If you are addressing your letter to a specific person, be absolutely certain the name, address and title are accurate. It is also important to make sure that your formatting is correct; font size and type, spacing and alignment should all be uniform.
-Kristy O'Malley, Business Consultant - WIA & SESP
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