If you were giving a beautiful piece of jewellery to someone, you wouldn't wrap it in yesterday's newspaper would you?
So why would you go to all the trouble of crafting a fabulous resume, only to send it with a half hearted, poorly crafted covering letter?
Well, you wouldn't. Not if you were really serious about getting that ideal job.
A good cover letter should not sound like a re-hash of your resume.
It should pull highlights from your resume and tie it gracefully with
the job description. Consider it a bridge between your resume and the
position you're seeking.
Make your cover letter visually appealing and coordinated with your
resume. Use the same personal information block in the heading of your
cover letter and your resume. A cohesive resume package is a very
attractive selling point. If using paper (i.e., not online), use the
same high quality paper for the cover letter as for your resume. At the
same time, do not overdo the style elements. One type font is never
wrong (unless you are in the arts).
Be concise. Never use two words when one will do (avoid verbosity).
The more unconventional the employer, the more leeway for creativity you have in writing a cover letter.
You don't have to explain everything. You may leave the employer wishing to learn more about you.
You should use a different cover letter for every job application. It
must be specific to the exact role that you are applying for.
You should always request an interview.
Warnings
This is not your autobiography. Keep it well under a page.
Avoid generic, empty language ("I will bring a depth of experience," or,
"I believe my qualifications and experience suit the demands of the
position"). Be specific and concrete about what you can bring to the
position.
I was searching for some tips today to help out my friend who has applied for a retail cashier position. I have checked out some tips on other mediums online for ways to furnish his cover letter and make him stand out from amongst other applicants. I'd really like to thank you for this work.
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