How A Cover Letter Can Help An Applicant

When applying for jobs, it is fairly common for employers to require applicants to include resumes listing their experience and credentials. This sheet of paper, however, does nothing to tell them why a particular person is interested in the job, and why a person with the same credentials as another deserves the job more. To solve this problem, many employers look for cover letters as well as resumes. Cover letters are sheets of paper put on top of a resume that allows an applicant to write a short letter to their potential boss on why they would be ideal candidates for the job. Many times these letters can get applicants an interview alone, so it is important to realize that they are indeed critical to the hiring process.

A cover letter should generally have three parts to it. The first, obviously, would be the introduction. This is the paragraph that an applicant wants to try and keep short and sweet. Three key points that should be included in the introduction is the employer’s full name, what position the applicant wishes to purse, and why they want the job in question.

The second paragraph, known as the body, should give more detailed explanations as to why the applicant wishes to work for the employer. The applicant should also describe why he or she will be a valued member of the working community if he or she were given a chance to work for the employer in question. Credentials which are included in the resume can be referred to and mentioned in further detail in the body. Think of the body as an audition, an applicant should attempt to make themselves look as good as possible. Also remember that the employer is more likely to respond to someone who addresses the needs of the company before his or her own personal needs in finding employment.

Finally the cover letter ends in a closing. In the closing the applicant should attempt to find a unique and clever way to get themselves into further contact with the employer. How this is done is really up to the applicant and their imagination. It is key to remember not to skip over this part, however, as many argue it is the most critical of the entire cover letter.

All in all, every applicant looking to make a good early impression on an employer should use a good cover letter to show what kind of employee they could be. The cover letter is an integral part in the hiring process and should not be taken lightly under any circumstances.