Writing a Cover Letter

Tutorial

Writing a cover letter can be a frightening proposition for most people because it seems that so much is riding on this particular document. In actuality, it’s pretty easy to write a great cover letter if you keep a few must-dos and a few taboos in mind.

Keep your tone consistent with both your personality and the position you are seeking. If you’re applying for a job managing a major healthcare facility, your cover letter has to reflect the seriousness and responsibility of the job. On the other hand, if you’re looking to become the new public representative for a comedy club, you need to show that you can be both professional and fun. A stiff, stilted cover letter probably wouldn’t get far with the interviewers for the latter position just as a joke would not be a good idea for the former.

Remember to follow your rules for letter writing. Most computer programs offer letter-writing wizards that will help you format correctly.

Writing a cover letter is going to be your first chance at making a great impression on your potential employer. Clearly state what you hope to offer and to gain from the employment. Briefly state the reasons you’d make a good employee. Writing a cover letter that sells your potential employer on the idea of you as the newest employee can get you past the first step in the application process.