What a Cover Letter Should Be

Jobs are hard to come by.

Let's face it, the world is evolving and new markets are opening up all over the world. But, that doesn't necessarily mean that with these new markets come new job opportunities for everyone. It's sad, really to think the world is moving forward and man kind just might be left behind unless we catch up with the times.

So what does that mean for the person who is looking for a job in today's market?

Well, there are jobs. Yes. But there are few diverse jobs and more niche jobs out there. So, as a job seeker, you need to be on your toes. You need to stand out above all others in what you do and what you can provide for your prospective employer.

Employers receive dozens of resumes everyday for the job your looking for. Why are you any more qualified then the person who got their resume in before you? Finding a job isn't a rat race, it's a talent show.

No, really. Employers are looking for talent. They don't care if you got your resume on their desk before anyone else. They want to know what you can do for them.

And it all starts with a great cover letter.

A cover letter should do four things.

1. Introduce yourself to the employer
2. Give a brief description of your talents
3. Tell the employer how your talents can be of benefit to their company by hiring you.
4. Request a face to face meeting to further discuss your mutual alliance

Right after the salutation, don't say Hi, my name is.....

Your first paragraph should be something more along the lines of what job your applying for and why you're applying for it. For example:

I am applying for XYZ position at your company. I'm have been a XYZ for X number of years and am looking for a company that provides their employees with opportunities for advancement. 

Then in the next paragraph, tell them what you've got. Yep, this is where you summarize the skills you can bring to the table at the interview.

In the past X number of years, I've supervises a staff of x number of employees. I've been responsible to over see YZ project using AB resources. 

Then here you sum it up to why these talents are important to the company where you are applying for the position:

In my last project, I increased revenue for my company by X%, and this is just one of the way I can be beneficial as a part of your team at XYBB company. 

And you wrap it up with a call to action. 

I would like the opportunity to sit down with you and discuss other ways my experience can be beneficial to your company. I will call on Wednesday, September 18, 2013 to arrange this meeting. I look forward to speaking with you. 

Honestly, these are just some sample scenario paragraphs of who a cover letter should be. I'm not saying you can't use them as an example, but don't cut and past the whole thing without rewriting it to fit the needs of the position you are applying for. It's always best to have someone else read your cover letter first whether they are a professional or a friend.

Susan