Cover Letter Tips from Robbie Miller Kaplan

Cover Letters Tips

by Robbie Miller Kaplan

Competition for jobs is fierce and you'll need a sure-hire cover letter to attract employers attention and make them want to read on - to the resume. Author Robbie Miller Kaplan states, "Job search success hinges on making initial contact with employers....and cover letters are the connection."

Here are some tips from Sure-Hire Cover Letters for creating polished and professional letters that get results:

Tailor each letter for the jobs you seek, always highlighting how your qualifications meet the job requirements.
Direct each letter to a specific individual and include their job title. Do some research to identify the appropriate hiring manager, either through directories or calling the organization directly. Verify correct spelling and job titles.
Type all letters. It's helpful to use a word processor or word processing software so you can save the letters and modify them for future use.
The letter set-up - space between elements, paragraph indents, placement of addresses, salutation, and closes must follow accepted business-letter principles and formats. Use single spacing for the text and double spacing between paragraphs.
Include your telephone number with area code in the return address or closing paragraph. Date and sign your letter.
Confine letters to four to six paragraphs on one page. State the purpose of your letter in the opening paragraph. Include your qualifications and accomplishments in the following two paragraphs. End the letter by restating your interest in the organization and desire for an interview.
Capture attention in your opening paragraph and entice the employer to read on. Avoid beginning paragraphs with the pronoun "I."
Write a draft of the letter and then edit, reorganize, and rewrite until you are satisfied with the clarity and construction. Proofread carefully to avoid spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.
Produce your letters on quality paper in white, off-white, cream, buff, or beige. For a professional appearance, use the same paper for both your cover letters and resume.

These tips are adapted from Sure-Hire Cover Letters by Robbie Miller Kaplan, author of seven career books. ISBN 0-8144-7854-9 $10.95 paperback. At bookstores or order by phone toll-free from AMACOM Books, 1-800-262-9699.