A cover letter is really a simple formula. Make your resume wrapper memorable, meaningful and meaty. Think it can’t be done in a single page? We show you how!

Tip 1.  To Thine Own Self Be True

The Bard had a way with words, but it will be glaringly obvious if you don’t have a flair for your own. Hiring managers have read every sample cover letter in the book. Generate a form letter with nothing more than your original signature and you’ll be likely to receive one in return to the tone of “thank you for applying (your name here). DING!”

Tip 2.  Know Typoz or Smelling Misbakes

When it comes time two, too. . . to write your cover letter, rely on more than your computer’s spell check to proof your piece. Examine every word and then do it again, backwards.

Tip 3.  Dear Mr. Mister

Formal letters call for formal salutations. Call a doctor a Dr. and don’t miss your chance by calling a Mr. a Mrs. If all else fails, deliver your letter to a “hiring manager.”

Tip 4.  Throwing Out the First Pitch

Structure your first paragraph by introducing yourself and answering the reader’s question of “So what?” Reference something specific about the company you’re contacting and highlight your future title – the position for which you’re applying!

Tip 5.  A Killer Bod

The body of your letter is where you want to refer to, not regurgitate, your resume. Shine by sharing your strongest qualifications, but don’t gloat. Showcase your background by briefly mentioning a relevant accomplishment.

Tip 6.  Chain Reaction

Use your closing paragraph to shout from the mountaintops that you want acccccction! To get a positive reaction, be polite, not passive. Request an interview and suggest a time.

Tip 7.  XOXO, Pookie

The complimentary close is your last chance to make a great impression. The recruiter is not your suitor, so best to bid adieu with “best regards” or sign off with “sincerely.”

Tip 8.  No Autographs, Please

A simple signature will do. Sign your name to your cover letter just like you would sign a check.

For more free job-hunting tips, visit www.GetAJobBook.com

Written by award-winning authors Tara Maras & Donna Kozik, Get A Job! Put Your Degree To Work is a job manual for recent or soon-to-be college graduates. It educates students about the realities of today’s job market, revealing everything from the secrets of interview success to the art of the perfect handshake. Advice from the book has been featured in 130 newspapers including the L.A. Times, Chicago Tribune and Baltimore Sun.

Donna Kozik & Tara Maras are also the authors of www.29DaystoaSmoothMove.com,a complete household moving manual.

©2004 Tara Maras & Donna Kozik

Recommended Resources:
Resume Distribution: EmailRecruiters.com
Resume Posting: JobBoardGenie.com
Resume Writing: CareerProResume.com