The following cover letter sample gives an idea of what most job hunters should do when composing these. It consists of only a very few paragraphs, and is therefore short and easy to read. The reason for this sample being short is simply because hiring managers are extremely busy and will not read long letters. They may glance at them, or skim them for statements that jump out at them, but they probably will not have time to read them. Use this sample when composing your own cover letters, and you'll save time and get more interviews.
Date HR Manager's name Company Name Address City State Zip RE: Job Reference number (if one is available)
Dear Mr. Blank,
I'm writing to introduce myself in hopes of joining your organization, and have enclosed a copy of my resume for your review.
My background, skills and talents are in all aspects of veterinary medicine, with a particular emphasis in embryo collection and transplant. I also have strong skills in general veterinary practice, management and business operations.
I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you and exchange ideas. I will call you over the next several days to make an appointment. If you prefer, you may reach me at the phone number or email address listed above.
Thank you for your time. I look forward to meeting with you soon.
Sincerely,
John R. Doe, DVM
Enclosure
This sample was obviously for a veterinarian, but anyone in any profession can use it and customize it to suit their own needs. This is a traditional letter done in paragraph style. Another option that is gaining in popularity is the bulleted letter. A cover letter sample in the bulleted format follows.
Date
Manager ABC Company Street Address City, state, zip code
RE: (reference position applied for)
Dear (ad name)
With over 20 years of experience as a military officer, I can make an immediate contribution to your organization. Highlights of my background include:
? Experienced as a pilot, flight instructor, security officer, and operations officer in charge of millions of dollars in government property and responsible for hundreds of personnel.
? Skilled in staff management, project management, security & safety, executive management briefing, and leadership of highly skilled technicians and professionals.
? Demonstrated ability to handle multiple tasks concurrently, and lead by example. Utilize sound decision making judgement as evidenced by increased levels of responsibility and professional commendations.
I would like to discuss in greater detail the valuable contributions I would make at your organization. I can be reached at (555) 555-5555. Your time and consideration are most appreciated.
Sincerely,
John Doe
Enclosure
This sample was for a retired military aviation officer, but the basic format would stay the same for a teacher, CEO, salesman, firefighter, accountant or almost any other profession. There are two or three bulleted paragraphs that repeat qualifications, accomplishments or other highlights from the resume. The bulleted format makes them easy to see, and the bold facing on key points draws the attention of the reader to what the writer of the cover letter sample wants the reader to see, and read. Use the sample above, or the first cover letter sample, depending on your own needs, and customize them to your profession.
1. Don't use cover letter templates, however good they may be. There are three things you must know that go against these templates: 1) they are stale & boring 2) most templates are likely to have been downloaded from internet 3) therefore, yours will be exposed as being identical to many. Use samples to get ideas on how to write your own unique letter.
2. Don't write a lengthy first paragraph that will only bore the reader. A lengthy first paragraph also dilutes your impressive qualities and eventually weakens the entire letter - this is the last thing you want to happen.
3. Don't exclude your Unique Selling Proposition, or USP. Remember that the cover letter is your sales letter; you should highlight your main strengths and prepare the reader psychologically to want to read further.
4. Don't write a vague letter without mentioning specifics, such as the job title and job code/number if you are responding to an advertisement.
5. Don't address your cover letter 'To Whom It May Concern'. It shows that you don't care enough to do your research to find out who is receiving the resume packages.
6. Don't use fanciful fonts. Don't unnecessarily use capitalized or bolded words, or grandiose phrases. Don't send the letter without nixing silly spelling or grammatical mistakes.
7. Don't use clich? language such as "As afore mentioned, I am enclosing..." This will only irritate the recruiter. Instead use simple phrases such as, "enclosed please find my resume."
8. Don't include personal information like your race, sex or marital status in the cover letter. These things are against the Equal Employment Opportunity Act, and as such will not impact the decision whether or not you are called for the interview.
9. Don't use copies of the same cover letters with just the address and date lines changed to send for similar jobs. If you don't customize the entire body, the letter may either be irrelevant or a mistake may silently make it into the final draft.
10. Don't brag or make statements that can't be quantified. You should be humble, yet accurate ? employers these days often verify your statements for accuracy (and uncover exaggerations).
The trick with the cover letter is to capture the reader's imagination as soon as they begin reading. This entails keeping your cover letter neat and tidy with a simple format, and avoiding common errors, such as the 10 listed above.
Heather Eagar has sinced written about articles on various topics from Cover Letter, Interview Questions and Careers and Job Hunting. Are you guilty of sabotaging your own job search along with the opportunity to earn more money? Heather Eagar, a former professional resume writer and creator of ResumeLines.com, provides reviews of the top. Heather Eagar's top article generates over 165000 views. to your Favourites.