What do I need to put into a cover letter for a resume' ?

Question

I haven't done a resume' for a long time, it will need to be updated. I'm just not sure what the employer wants in a cover letter.

My job is dwindling and I'm looking for a new job or something to add on to my current job hours. There are a few options available, but I haven't had to apply for a job for quite a few years. Thanks for any serious replies to help me with this...

Answer 1

Job related correspondence includes
Job Application Cover Letter
Letter of inquiry
Job application cover letter
Thank You Letter
Acceptance Letter
Declination Letter

General Guide Lines for writing Job related Correspondence
Focus on your qualifications and experience and why you fit the job profile.
Use simple and clear English. If you are applying for a technical job, make sure that a non technical person is also capable of understanding your CV. Correspondence to business and organisations has to be written in a formal manner. Review other http://www.cvtips.com/cover_letter.html Job Related Correspondence.
A cover Letter should never be longer than one page.
Mention achievements or strengths, apart from your qualifications and job experience. (uncertain what is meant here). Check out Writing about your achievements.
Your letter should be address to a specific person. Job research is very important. One of the results of your job research should be the name of the person responsible for the recruitment.
Keep the letter to the point. The letter must be easy to read and follow.

Do not send a hand written cover letter if you are not asked. If the job advert specifies a http://www.cvtips.com/letter_writing_sample.html letter writing sample then send one! Make sure the letter is error free and that the same font is used throughout. Make sure that your letter and CV are similar in style.
Use top quality stationary. The envelope, the paper and the style of your CV stationary should match that of the cover letter.
Make sure that whatever you write in your cover letter is backed up by facts or at least be able to convincingly back them up in the interview.
Convey your enthusiasm about the job opportunity. You have to show that you are confident in your expectations about the job selection but do not be 'cocky'.
Sign your cover letter and write your name in block capitals under your signature.

In all cases make sure you follow the Guide on writing Job related Correspondence which gives a lot of specific tips on writing different types of Cover Letters.

more on http://www.cvtips.com/how_to_write_a_cover_letter.html

Answer 2

If you know the name of the person you are submitting the resume to, use their name but if not use to Whom it may concern. I always start off by saying where I found the job posting:
"I am forwarding my resume for the position of "Assistant Manager", that was posted on "Workopolis.com" on "date".

Then, explain why you would be fitted for that certain position using examples from previous experience. Then in the last paragraph, note some other relevant skills and experience. You can pull them off your resume and form them into sentences.

To finish the letter off, write something like this: Thank you in advance for your consideration and I look forward to meeting with you to discuss career options with "company".

Try to keep the cover letter 4 paragraphs. Most managers (unless they are strictly in HR) don't have time to read long cover letters and resumes. And anything too short and generic (not including the company info) looks sloppy and like you didn't take the time to write a good letter.

Answer 3

Hello, The best thing to do is staple your resume and cover letter together, having the cover letter on the top. Don't put it in an envelope. You want your employer to be able to see your name and information immediately. There is also no need to fold them. Hope this helps!

Answer 4

A covering letter is basically about you and summing up your resume. Start by saying what you are looking for. e.g. I'm currently a secretary looking for a job in computer programming. Then you can say why the job interests you. e.g. I want to apply for this job because it requires good analytical skills which I have demonstrated here here and here etc. Mention the skills you have which are right for the job and finally sum up about why you want to work for their company. e.g. You have a good colleage community etc.

Answer 5

It is standard business etiquette and not to do so makes you stand out as a person who does not follow instructions or thinks they can take short cuts.
In my town there is a resource center that will help with resumes and job searches, and there probably is one in yours too. Check them out. Call the unemployment office for info, they should have the phone number.

Answer 6

Reasons for wanting the job, and introduction to yourself.
Check out this site.
http://www.careercc.com/resumpr.shtml

Answer 7

The cover letter is used to introduce yourself. You should also refer to the qualifications, education, and experience required and how you meet them in your cover letter.

Use their terminology, its more eye catching.

Answer 8

What is a resume' ? Is it like a CV (curriculum vitae) ?