Cover letters can help to deliver your ‘why’ behind applying for the position and allows opportunity to include other information that cannot be delivered on a resume. Sending a cover letter can show qualities of initiative, commitment, and eagerness, especially if the cover letter is not a required document. There are some companies who state they do not want to receive a cover letter, ensure not to send one if requested not to.
Getting Started
- Study the job description and highlight keywords. What is important to the employer for the position?
- Identify your skills and experiences which match the keywords in the job description. How can you connect them strategically in your story?
- Determine why you are interested in this employer or opportunity. What aspects excite or appeal to you?
Building Content
- Tailor letters to each position specifically. Incorporate keywords in your writing to match the employer’s needs. Applicant tracking systems often look for keywords.
- Consider your writing “tone” and style relative to the organization’s culture, which may suggest a more or a less formal approach.
- Identify your related experiences including:
- Actions taken
- Skills developed
- How these show you can succeed in the
position
- Determine 3 points to highlight.
- Develop a thesis statement for the introduction
paragraph based on your list.
Content examples
- Job Qualification/Responsibilities: Relationship building, Problem Solving or Ability to understand and communication complex technical systems
- Experience: University Foundation, Internship at City Center Mart, Research Assistant in Psychology Department
- Action: Persuaded alumni to donate to the University, Resolved customer problems, questions on electronics and other product lines, learned and used SPSS to write report summarizing data
- Skills: Communication, interpersonal and sales, Problem solved, ability to explain technical details to non-technical customers, ability to lean and use complex systems and communicate data.
- Relationship to Job: I can build relationships with customers and generate sales, I can solve client concerns and explain complex technology to their clients, I can quickly learn XXX Organization's platforms and effectively communicate with their clients and teams.
Thesis Statement
Based on my customer service experience and strong problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills, I believe I would be an asset to XXX Organization as an Account Manager who will work hard to build relationships with current and new clients, broadening their use of XXX's platforms.