Find Your Dream Job in Clean & Green Energy - Sept 2010, Redfish Monthly

Yes, You Do Need a Cover Letter

A cover letter should always accompany your resume.

Your goal is to get an interview, and this may be your only chance to get the employer's attention. A cover letter is an introduction and is not a reiteration of your resume. Keep it short, one page should be sufficient to introduce yourself and capture the prospective employer's attention. Communicate your interest in the company. Highlight why you are qualified for the position. Request an interview.

Communicate your interest in the company.

There are often many applicants for a position these days, so companies have a lot of choice. Make sure that you personalize the communication and that your interest shines through. One approach may be to mention where you heard about the position (network contact, press release, article, financial results). If the connection prompted you to further research the company and industry, mention the exciting things that you learned as they relate to your own motivation for employment here. This provides a segue into your own qualifications.

Highlight why you are qualified for the position.

The cover letter allows you to specifically address the qualifications and attributes you have as they pertain to the position you are seeking at a company. Rather than re-writing your resume each time you postulate for a new position or company, use this opportunity to succinctly address the value you offer for the opportunity at hand. Don't simply use the same information as found in your resume, instead detail the most relevant skills and experience that make you not only qualified for the job, but a great asset to the company.

Request an interview.

The point is to capture the reader's attention and secure an interview. Review and make sure you've done this. Now ask for the opportunity to be interviewed.

Style & Personalization

While a business letter format is required, that doesn't mean the tone must come off as lacking personality. Au contraire! Differentiate yourself from the pile of applicants. Show humor, passion, dedication, let your personality be expressed. Companies have a unique culture and your cultural fit within a company will be critical to your success there.

Depending on the position, a table or chart may be worthwhile. For example, contrasting requirements with skill sets on a technical role may be most succinctly demonstrated with a bulleted comparison in a small table. For a sales position, laying out the organization's market segments and your own related experience and achievements in two columns can provide quick identification of how you meet and exceed the requirements sought.

Most communications are electronic these days providing you an opportunity to link to a LinkedIn Profile and Recommendations.

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