Cover Letter For Resume

Cover Letter For Resume - The Perfect Compliment to a Dynamite Resume.

Cover letter for resume – Introduction.

Writing a cover letter for a resume is really just an extension of the process of writing a good targeted resume with a good objective. If you have followed the practices outlined in how to do a resume and resume objective examples then the cover letter follows the same mindset.

That being said however there are a few extra points to be taken into consideration.

Cover letter for resume – Personalise your application.

I have always had good results when I’ve gone out of my way to research a bit about the company and the role offered - then conveyed that in my cover letter. I address it to the person named in the job ad and communicate my enthusiasm for the position, organisation and why the job is such a good fit for me and vice versa.

While your resume can be tailored to each position to a degree, the cover letter is where you really get a chance to scream – “I am the perfect person for this job and this is why!” Of course make this message concise and professional but at the same time don’t be afraid to put as much of yourself into it as you can.

Cover letter for resume – Be direct and don’t waffle.

As with your resume be aware that the person who will read it will have a huge pile of other cover letters and resumes to get through so they will not want to search for the information they are looking for. Give them your most dynamic selling points right up front – include things like certifications, relevant experience, ‘nice to haves’ (such as knowledge of Helpdesk SLAs) and anything else that you think will strengthen your application.

Appeal to the needs of the employer and explain why you can fulfil that need so effectively. Highlight relevant natural strengths that enable you to perform the job they are advertising with incredible efficiency. Think about their bottom line and where you fit in with it.

As with your resume don’t use long clunky sentences or paragraphs and be respectful of their time. It’s a big task having to go through hundreds - sometimes thousands of resumes and cover letters, give them what they want – and more - in easily readable, dynamic and positive points that radiate with personality and enthusiasm.

Cover letter for resume - Answer the usual questions.

Following on from the point about being respectful of the other person’s time – use your cover letter to answer the typical questions you are asked when you get a call back. I do this and it always has good results. Those typical questions usually are:

• What is your notice period/how soon could you start?
• What salary are you looking for?
• Why are you leaving your current position?

If you are looking for your first job and have no previous/current employment just state that you are available to start immediately but don’t draw attention to the fact that this is your first job. Also don’t put anything negative about why you are looking for a new job – keep it positive.

If you are looking to leave an existing position simply state that you’re looking for a ‘more challenging role relevant to your skills and ability to perform to the highest standards’.

Cover letter for resume – State your intention to follow up.

It is always good to let the perspective employer know that you will follow up this application by phone just to ensure that it was received. This just emphasises how serious you are about the role and that you really want it very badly. You can even express that you would much rather discuss your suitability in person and go as far as ‘requesting an interview’.

Cover letter for resume – Conclusion.

Your cover letter is an extension of your resume and objective, it is your chance to really sell yourself and communicate your enthusiasm for the job. Be respectful of the other person’s time. Present what they are looking for - and more. Communicate positive energy and professionalism and you will produce a cover letter for resume success.

Get it right and the best jobs will be beating a path to your door!

Who Else Wants Their Phone Ringing Off The Hook With Quality Job Interviews?

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