How to make the perfect cover letter
From:
Melissa Novacaska
To:
Whomever it may concern
Dear Reader,
A cover letter is a formal document that should be tailored to a business letter format. The header of this one page document is the same as one’s resume. It is an extension of a resume that allows future employers to see why you are the right candidate for the job. The way in which one presents themselves within the cover letter is the way in which a potential employer will see you; therefore, the voice and words of the page must accurately reflect the kind of person you want to be known as, according to the job you’re interested in. The first paragraph is simply an introduction, one that clearly states the position you are applying for, where you found the job (whether it be a posting online or through a friend) and then state a reason or two why you are a good candidate for the specific position.
The second paragraph is the ultimate meat and potatoes of applying for the position. Here, to the best of your ability, you will match the skills you have to what the employer is looking for. It is important that you do not necessarily want to repeat word for word what is in your resume on here, but rather this is the chance to further showcase yourself and go more in depth about what the future employer is looking for and what you have done in the past that correlates with the open position. An example would be to simply state the degree or certificate you have obtained, any relatable experience or examples that would demonstrate you have the required skills for the position. It is safe to include any transferrable skills from previous employment, which can help if you do not necessarily have relatable work experience or training.
Finally, the third paragraph is a brief wrap up, to thank the employer for their time in looking over your resume and cover letter. You can also request an interview in this paragraph and provided contact information. There is no specific word count for this page, but keeping it concise is key. You want your potential employer to be interested in looking over your resume and any other document you may provide, as well as getting in contact with you for that position you’ve worked hard for. Keep it simple, but include the best material you can so you’re set for success.
Sincerely,
Melissa Novacaska
Reporter, Interrobang
(This information was gathered with the help of Brigitte MacKinnon, resource and information officer at Fanshawe’s Community Employment Services, located at the corner of Clarke Road and Trafalgar. The centre is open during the week for those looking for further assistance in finding employment.)
Melissa Novacaska
To:
Whomever it may concern
Dear Reader,
A cover letter is a formal document that should be tailored to a business letter format. The header of this one page document is the same as one’s resume. It is an extension of a resume that allows future employers to see why you are the right candidate for the job. The way in which one presents themselves within the cover letter is the way in which a potential employer will see you; therefore, the voice and words of the page must accurately reflect the kind of person you want to be known as, according to the job you’re interested in. The first paragraph is simply an introduction, one that clearly states the position you are applying for, where you found the job (whether it be a posting online or through a friend) and then state a reason or two why you are a good candidate for the specific position.
The second paragraph is the ultimate meat and potatoes of applying for the position. Here, to the best of your ability, you will match the skills you have to what the employer is looking for. It is important that you do not necessarily want to repeat word for word what is in your resume on here, but rather this is the chance to further showcase yourself and go more in depth about what the future employer is looking for and what you have done in the past that correlates with the open position. An example would be to simply state the degree or certificate you have obtained, any relatable experience or examples that would demonstrate you have the required skills for the position. It is safe to include any transferrable skills from previous employment, which can help if you do not necessarily have relatable work experience or training.
Finally, the third paragraph is a brief wrap up, to thank the employer for their time in looking over your resume and cover letter. You can also request an interview in this paragraph and provided contact information. There is no specific word count for this page, but keeping it concise is key. You want your potential employer to be interested in looking over your resume and any other document you may provide, as well as getting in contact with you for that position you’ve worked hard for. Keep it simple, but include the best material you can so you’re set for success.
Sincerely,
Melissa Novacaska
Reporter, Interrobang
(This information was gathered with the help of Brigitte MacKinnon, resource and information officer at Fanshawe’s Community Employment Services, located at the corner of Clarke Road and Trafalgar. The centre is open during the week for those looking for further assistance in finding employment.)
