Resume Writing: Cover Letter Tips That Will Land You Quality Job Interviews

The dreaded cover letter.

I admit it. Even the best of us at times cringe when we have to write the cover letter. After all, intuitively it seems so redundant. What can I tell this employer that he isn't going to read in my resume?

At least that's how I used to think. Now I understand that the cover letter is meant more as a formal introduction, the chance you have to explain how you discovered the job opening or the company.

It's also an excellent chance to display those now well-developed direct-response copywriting talents you have.

Instead of making the cover letter just another letter that introduces you, write it with a bit of flair so that it creates a curiosity about just what your true potential is. A well-written cover letter can do more to advance your resume than you would ever have thought possible.

Where do you begin?

Here are a few tips to get you started.

1) Always address your cover letter to a real person. If you don't know the name of the person, call the company. This one action is far more important than you can ever know. Not only does it show you have initiative, but a letter addressed to Human Resources or Department Head will not receive the attention it should.

2) Use benefit-driven copy. Do a little homework. Find out something about the corporation that is relevant to your profession. Then use this as a reason.

Example: "Widget Corp. represents the largest producer of high-quality widgets, my experience in the accounting field would complement fit your high-pace needs nicely."

3) Show the reader that you went that extra couple of miles to research even a little about the firm. It's a sad fact that the majority of applicants probably did no research. Also, be as specific as possible when talking about the company for which you're applying.

4) Make your enthusiasm shine through. This goes without saying. Your potential employer wants to hire someone who really wants to join them and contribute to their organization's mission and goals. They would rather hire someone with enthusiasm and the drive than those who appear to care less whether they get the job or not.

5) Include a 'call to action'. The call to action could something as simple as "Don't hesitate to contact me." Or "I look forward to hearing from you." "I would be happy to discuss in further detail how I can be of benefit to your firm." Be mildly creative here. But make it clear that he can - and should - continue this relationship. Just make sure the reader knows that you desire further contact.