How To Write A Cover Letter
A cover letter is a great way to help you stand out and capture the attention of potential employers when submitting a resume or application. Almost all employers ask for a cover letter to be sent in along with a resume when applying for a position. This means it is important to have the ability to write up an engaging and effective letter to capture the interest of the reader and hopefully lead them into bringing you in for an interview. Lamson Institute’s career services department is devoted to assisting its students in achieving their career goals by assisting them in the writing of a professional, well written, and engaging letter.
A cover letter serves many purposes in the application process. It is the first piece of “advertising” a potential employer sees from you. You want it to create a sense of professionalism and interest so they will continue on and review your resume and hopefully call you in for an interview. It also allows you to briefly introduce yourself to the employer and let them know how your skills and experiences match the skills and experiences required for the job. Most covers are no longer than one page and follow the same format of:
Contact Information– Put your name, professional email, and a phone number. Also, if you have the information put the name, position title, and phone number of the person you are writing too. This makes it more personalized to the employer.
Opening/Introduction– Make sure to address the letter to a specific person. Having a strong opening is imperative to grabbing the reader’s attention so they will continue to look over your letter and resume. You want to open with the punch line, explain why this particular job is exciting to you and why you are right for it.
Body– This is where you emphasize your personal value to the company. Explain what relevant skills, experience, and achievements you have that will allow you to do the job successfully. Do some research on what the company does and some challenges it faces and how bringing you on will benefit them. Be enthusiastic and excited for the opportunity!
Closing– Make sure you leave the employers with the best times to contact you, as well a call for action. This means confidently requesting them to look over your resume and bring you in for an interview.
The career services department at Lamson Institute is filled with knowledgeable professionals who want to assist you in crafting the perfect cover letter to get you attention from employers, in for interviews, and on the path to a rewarding and successful career. For more information, please don’t hesitate to call or click today!
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