The cover letter is a document often paired with a resume to further explain your skills and experience all in an effort to get that first interview. Even if not always necessary for the position, it never hurts to provide recruiters and/or potential employers with some additional information about who you are and what you can bring to the table. Although the content of the cover letter should change for each application, there are three objectives that should be achieved no matter what. In the following post, we will look at those goals and give examples of how to accomplish them.

Goal #1 - Grab Their Attention

When a new position opens up, hiring managers often have many applications to sift through in addition to their normal work duties. It is crucial to make an impression early. When crafting a cover letter, it is important to go beyond what your resume has already laid out. If you are simply repeating it, you will be wasting not only your own time, but the employer’s time as well.

One way to grab the reader’s attention and make your cover letter more interesting is by connecting a unique skill or experience you possess to the position. This will serve as a way to differentiate yourself, however make sure it still remains relevant and professional. While this is supposed to have a more conversational feel, you should maintain a tone that is suitable for business writing. This means using correct formatting and grammar. You don’t want to get the manager’s attention for the wrong reasons, so proofread the letter multiple times before hitting send.

Goal #2 - Market Your Strengths

As previously mentioned, you should go beyond reciting your resume. When laying out your skills in the cover letter, you should make connections between your strengths and what the new position entails. By doing this, you will be making it easier for the employer to see your fit for the company and position.

Goal #3 - Request Action

At the end of the letter, you should request the action that you desire- an interview. You should also give a few times that you are available for setting up the interview. Before your complimentary closing, restate your interest in the position and thank them for their time and consideration.

For a sample cover letter, check out Career Assistance page here.