A key element of the job preparation process is compiling a compelling cover letter that prompts the employer to seek out your skills and experience. Applicants often believe that an introductory letter is not necessary when they have already submitted a resume, but this is just a myth. This crucial piece of paper can make or break your chances of obtaining an interview.
A well-written cover letter has the potential to take your job materials and resume from the bottom of the candidate pool to the top, explains hiring manager Heather Huhman with ComeRecommended.com. Focus a significant portion of your job preparation on enticing potential employers with your creativity and professionalism by writing a strong introductory letter, she advises.
Make your cover letter stand out from the rest by including keywords and details from the job description. Describe how your skill set and experience match the qualities and proficiencies the company is seeking. For example, if you have experience working in sales, utilizing software programs and managing equipment the company uses on a regular basis, include this information to show that you are ideal for this position because you already possess the skills required and desired.
A cover letter also gives you the opportunity to show off your professional personality. Identify how you would fit into the company culture. Candidates who note that they are flexible, willing to work within teams and plan to significantly impact the company's productivity and profits are often more appealing than candidates who send in a generic form letter. Avoid using templates for your application materials and customize each letter to adhere to the qualifications, skills and nature of the company from which you are seeking employment.
Show that you are well-informed about the operations and processes of the company through your cover letter. Research significant accomplishments of the company and relay how you would like to be a part of its winning culture. Show how your skills can impact company operations and detail your eagerness to get started quickly and efficiently. Describe how your skills, beliefs and personality are in line with the company's mission and goals. Candidates who take the time to research the company, evaluate its values and mission, and describe how they would fit into the company culture are often more impressive to hiring managers than candidates who don't take the time to really get to know the business.
Candidates who pay close attention to proofreading when writing a cover letter increase their chances of employment by showing off their attention to detail. A letter that is filled with grammatical and punctuation errors often ends up in the trash. Show off your professionalism with each and every word by carefully constructing an introductory letter that is clean, concise and personable.
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