What should a cover letter say?
A cover letter is one that accompanies a resume that you send to an employer. The cover letter acts as an introduction, telling the employer you are interested in working for their company.
If you can, take the time to write an individualized cover letter for each resume you send. Learn about the company and the job that you are seeking. Then you can tell the employer why you are the right person to work there.
- You should clearly state the job that you are seeking.
- It should include a reference on how your skills match what the employer is looking for.
- Your letter should look professional but friendly. It should be no more than one page.
- It should contain no spelling, grammar or punctuation errors. Have someone check it for you.
- It should show the employer that your communication skills are strong. It should contain a brief statement about your skills and experience, but not go into the detail the employer will find in the resume.
- Avoid clichés – the kinds of things that everybody says. Just use your own words and try to allow your personality to shine through!
- Avoid the use of the word “I” too much. You want to boast a bit, but not too much.
- You might try to use what are called “power words” such as innovation, advanced, professional, proven, inspired, introduced, directed, launched, and delivered. These words may help catch the attention of an employer.
