When submitting a resume for a job posting it is critical to include an outstanding cover letter. In many cases the cover letter will “seal the deal.” Frequently prospective employers spend less than 5 minutes reviewing a resume.

There are several standard formatting steps to follow when writing a cover letter.

• Always date your letter then space down two lines.
• If the job has been posted with both the company and contact name, address the letter using contact name, company name and company address. If you are given only the company name and address, then begin the letter with the salutation: “To Whom it May Concern”. It is inappropriate and unprofessional to address the individual by their first name.
• If you do not have a name begin with: To Whom It May Concern. Again, space down two lines and begin the first paragraph.

Writing the cover letter

• Important facts to remember when writing the first paragraph: state the purpose of the letter, the position you are applying for, and why you are interested in that position.
• The second paragraph is the most important. This is where you sell yourself as the right person for the job. The following should be included: summarize your credentials, list your most relevant accomplishments from previous employment, and stress your qualifications for the specific position by highlighting your applicable skills. Remember to insert keywords and keyword phrases. Keep in mind you are responding to a job posting so you already know the job requirements therefore be certain to stress them.
• Research the company so you can construct the third paragraph in a fashion where you explain why you and the company are a good match. When researching the company online, look for some bit of information about the company that is not widely known and incorporate it into the letter, e.g., if the company sponsors a particular charitable event express your interest and compliment them.
• Show that you are proactive. The final paragraph should be short and to the point. You have two options, the first being the better of the two: state that you will call in a week to follow-up, the second is to request an interview and provide your telephone number.
• Finally type Enclosure at the bottom left and enclose your resume.