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The 10 Commandments of Cover Letter Writing

Although the resume is the most important document in your job search, each time you send one out a cover letter must accompany it. If the resume is a snap shot of you, then the cover letter is the audio that makes it come alive. There are many opinions on this subject, but if you stick to these 10 commandments you will have an effective cover letter:

Thou shalt take the necessary time to do it right. A cover letter is more challenging to write than a resume. Don’t neglect the time required to write a persuasive cover letter, which is critical in your search. The resume and cover letter are the employer’s first impression of you. This is a business letter, therefore be yourself at your best.
Thou shalt keep it to one page. Like the resume, the cover letter in most cases should be one page, but make it persuasive. It should elaborate more fully on your qualifications. The margins should be the same as on the resume. Keep the top heading on your resume and cover letter the same, but add the date.
Thou shalt tailor it to a specific person and position. Don’t use a letter that looks like it could be mass mailed to anyone. Employers can spot these “form” letters a mile away. Be genuine and address the letter to the recipient by name (and correct spelling) in both the address and the salutation. If you have a copy of the job description, make sure you address the requirements.
Thou shalt have an introduction. In this first paragraph you will want to tell the reader why you are writing to them. Point out to them the skills you offer, why you are interested in the job, how you heard about it, mention the names of any referrals and try to personalize it by connecting to the reader.
Thou shalt have a body. In one or two paragraphs, highlight your education and experience that is relevant to the specific job. Use your resume as a source for examples that can back up, quantify and “sell” your generalizations. Reduce the number of sentences starting with “I”.
Thou shalt keep it employer centered. The cover letter is ABOUT you, but it is FOR someone else. Research the company and think about the employer’s needs. Be sure to prove your knowledge of the organization and how your skills relate. Balance humility with confidence.
Thou shalt have a closing. In your final paragraph, mention that you have enclosed your resume and any other relevant documents and be sure to ask for a meeting. Indicate that you will follow-up to arrange a convenient time. Always thank them for their consideration.
Thou shalt make it a writing sample. Most employers will not read your cover letter initially. First they will review your resume to make sure you meet the qualifications. Eventually they will read the cover letter to see how well you communicate. Personalize it and make it unique. This should be your best example of the quality of your writing.
Thou shalt pass the “wow” test. By the time the reader finishes the cover letter, they should be saying, “Wow, I would love to meet this person.” Remember the cover letter, like the resume, should stand out, not to get you a job, but rather an interview. Make the employer want to reach for the phone and call you. The cover letter is a call to action.
Thou shalt make it perfect. Details do matter. Don’t be in such a rush to whip off your cover letter that you forget to sign it. Also, remember to spell check and proofread it carefully to avoid a “sloppy copy”. Laser print the resume and cover letter on ivory paper in the same size standard font like Times New Roman. Have a career development professional or someone you trust review it and provide objective feedback. Paperclip the covers letter on top of the resume and send it out flat in a large envelope. Consider sending it by overnight mail to grab their attention. A copy for your files will help you stay organized and prepared as you make your follow-up phone call.