A successful cover letter should have no more than four paragraphs. Each paragraph should provide interesting, reliable, and straightforward details about the job candidate, his capabilities, and achievements.
An effective cover letter reveals to the potential employer a genuine interest in working for that company. While there are basic guidelines of writing, it is important to keep cover letters definite and unique. An effective cover letter stands out and makes an impact to the reader.
Keep cover letters concise and straight to the point. The shorter, the better. It should ideally be a maximum of 4 paragraphs, with every paragraph having only 3 to 4 sentences.
The following is only intended to guide you in what to write in each of the four paragraphs. However, in writing your own cover letters, always make sure to let your individuality stand out. An employer reads hundreds of cover letters in a day. It is a tiring job to read basically the same content all the time. After a while, the tendency is to just read through the pile of cover letters to get it over and done with.
Therefore, your goal is to make yours distinct from the rest. Think about how you will be able to make your cover letter very interesting for the employer. Remember that you only have a few minutes to make a good first impression. Once the employer turns over your cover letter together in a big heap of other letters, you slim your chances of being called for an interview.
So remember that first impressions last, and so should be the first paragraph. Make it catchy, one that will impress an employer and ignite his interest. This is a very important paragraph, crucial to whether the reader will continue reading or drop your letter prematurely.
Think about it. When you read a book, you start with the first sentences of the first chapter. If this early you get bored with what’s written, you immediately drop the book and look for something else more interesting to read.
The second paragraph ideally contains additional information regarding your scholastic and professional credentials. Give added details on how you can endow with the advantages you stated in the opening paragraph. Make sure to highlight your achievements and successes rather than career responsibilities. It helps to use powerful action words to illustrate your achievements.
In the third paragraph, provide details and reasons why the company should get you. Expound on your credentials and imply to them that you are familiar with the company. Give small details about their company that will make them think you are keen in being a part of their team.
The fourth paragraph closes the letter and is equally important. Give an optimistic tone that you are qualified for the job. Request for the sought after job interview and leave the impression that you intend to follow up.
A winning concluding paragraph should go something like this:
I’m enthusiastic to play a part on the development and triumph of your organization. I am positive that we should set for an appointment and you can expect my call (or email) next week to arrange a meeting.
Finding a job is quite difficult. There is big and tough competition out there, together with thousands or even millions of other applicants. If you think you are qualified, there are others equally qualified or maybe better than you. But an employer doesn’t know you firsthand. To get to know you initially, he only has your cover letter and resume to go through. So don’t take cover letters for granted. An effective cover letter immediately gives you a big edge over other applicants.
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