Cover letter is the first communication between you and your potential employer, but it is not simply a letter of introduction. A good cover letter shows your ability to communicate, a skill that is sought by nearly all employers. Like they say “ First impression is the last impression” and if your cover letter don’t make them interested in you in first place then there is very high chance that your resume won’t make much impact either.So it is very important that you spend time crafting a letter that will make an employer take notice.

You can create a professionally looking cover letter by following these simple guidelines:

1. When to write a cover letter? If you are not meeting the final decision maker personally then you should write a cover letter. And if you are then just introduce yourself while handing over the resume.
2. Length. It should be short and to the point. Not more then 3 paragraphs.
3. Do your research first. Find out about the company and job profile.
4. Content. It should not be a summary of your resume. But HOW your skill make a good match for the position.
5. Salutation. Write to a person and not “To Whom it may Concern.”. Find the name(point 2) or try Dear Manager, Dear Hiring Manager or Dear HR Manager.
6. One cover letter per application. You must make a cover letter that matches the skills and experience required by the employer.
7. Self-centeredness. To avoid being misinterpreted as self-centered keep your “I” to minimal. Avoid using then altogether if possible.
8. Overview. Give an overview of the specific skills you have for the position without explaining each and everything in detail.
9. Pattern. Follow the same writing style and pattern you used in your resume.

Cover Letter Template

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Applicant’s address and contact information(telephone number and email address)

Date

Contact person’s name(optional)

Title

Company name and address

Subject

Dear HR Manager

First paragraph

• State briefly the position you are applying for and how you came to know about the vacancy.
• Show interest in the position and company by providing some information.

Middle paragraph

• State your knowledge of the required skills and explain briefly why you are suitable for the position.
• Describe your background and qualifications.

Last paragraph

• Specify the time and day when you will be available for the interview.
• Refer to the attached resume.
• Indicate your plan of follow-up by telephone.

Sincerely,

(Signature)

Full Name

Enclosures: resume etc.

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Finally some last minute check before sending the letter:

• Double check all your personal information.
• Specify the position and job code(if any)
• Check for any spelling and/or grammatical mistakes.
• Check for any missing or repeated words.
• Check for your signature at the end of the letter.