Creating Your Best Ever Cover Letter

Nancy Anderson
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The job search can be grueling and time-consuming, but individuals armed with an outstanding cover letter have an edge over the competition. Make a solid first impression with potential employers and increase your chances of obtaining an interview with application materials that show your professionalism, eagerness and personality.

Candidates should utilize strategies to show creativity when writing a cover letter, explains Ryan Niessen with Careerealism. A traditional letter may be appropriate for some industries, but innovative portfolios, video blogs and online samples of work can impress companies seeking a candidate who thinks outside of the box. Research the company to determine if the mission and goals of the business strive for innovation and creativity to determine if using enhanced technology is appropriate.

A traditional cover letter may be the route to go when applying to some companies. The primary focus should center on your skills, experience, accomplishments and goals. Align your skills with what the company has detailed as necessary qualifications in the job description. Use keywords from the job description to show that your skills and work ethic match the company's needs and culture. Provide evidence of proficiency in software and hardware programs, as well as equipment the company utilizes, to show hiring managers that you already possess what the company seeks in a candidate.

Personalize the cover letter by detailing your hobbies and interests that are in line with the company's mission and culture. Candidates who are active in the community, possess a powerful network of industry professionals and volunteer their time with the less fortunate provide examples of how these connections and efforts will benefit the business.

Explain how your skills and experience will enhance production and profits. Identify goals that are in line with the company's goals and detail accomplishments from previous positions that you hope to achieve as a representative of the potential employer's business. A cover letter should go beyond listing job duties and experience and help the hiring manager see how you can positively impact both the culture and growth of the business.

Allow your personality to shine through when compiling materials for the job search. Independent projects completed relevant to the industry and personal achievements help the potential employer to see your personality and eagerness. Stay positive when writing and focus on how you can work as a valuable team member while promoting awareness of the business.

Candidates preparing job materials should pay close attention to how they are perceived. A cover letter serves as a snapshot of both your personality and your professional nature. Impress potential employers with a letter that is carefully proofread, displays your knowledge of the company and industry, and outlines how you plan to impact the business in a positive manner.


Photo courtesy of stockimages at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

 

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